Porcelain tile cutting, need help?

Question

Okay, I'm doing a tub surround with porcelain tile. Got the last cut around the fixtures that requires a hole to be cut in the center of the tile. Long story short, I've busted 22 tiles trying. I've tried every single drill bit I've got. Everything from metal hole punchers to concrete bits. Nothing even scratches this porcelain tile. Any tips on how to punch a hole in this tile? I'm desperate!

Answer 1

Hi there. Common mistake you're dealing with. You're simply using the wrong drill bits. What you are going to need is a special (expensive but awesome) bit designed specifically for cutting tile. These bits are diamond and do not burn out like other bits as you've been trying to use thus far.



Don't cut a tile in half as another guy suggested... you can't go and ruin all that hard work by half-assing it. I always use bits by MK Diamond, which range in price from $50 - $150. But, they last and they don't ruin your drill, either. Also.... when drilling a hold in tile; do not use a hammer drill! This will break tiles also.



Depending on where you're located, a good diamond drill bit could be hard to find. Typically, the ones offered at Home Depot and Lowes are junk and may work no better than the ones you have tried to use thus far. You can buy a good MK Diamond Bit online though at www.mkdiamonddirect.com. Try this link here >>> https://mkdiamonddirect.com/categoryNavigationDocument.hg?categoryId=5 It should take you directly to the page where they sell the bits you need. As you can see, they're available in several sizes.



Again... don't cut a tile in half, it will show and look like handyman's work... we don't want that! Good luck! Let me know if you have any questions

Answer 2

I've installed a lot of tile in my time and I'm a bit confused with some details in your Q. You state you understand the tiles NEED to be cut with a wet saw, which by the way isn't the only tool that works,,, and yet in the same sentence you state you "HAD A PLAY"??? and tiles chipped? I'll assume that maybe that's a coloquialism? Keep in mind that while porcelain is slightly different in the way the tiles are produced, it's still fired/glazed clay...Essentially Glass. Porcelain often has the tile color and grain running all the way through the tile. The design aids in chips being less visible. In tiling any area all cuts should be at the perimeters, or in areas where a column must be cut around, etc. The pieces of tile should have been crafted with the edges slightly depressed from the rest of the face of the tile, allowing for grouting. One answer has a good suggestion, in the mechanics of a wet saw. Whether or not you rented/borrowed/or bought one, the blade should be new, or nearly new, for every new job. The water dispersal should be even and constant during operation. Any guides should be secure to allow a square/non binding cut. I have various tools I use, always save the cuts for the last, and actually use a Di-Grinder with a Diamond blade, as often as I use the wet saw. Steven Wolf

Answer 3

Yes I can help as I own a company which supplies drills which are built to cut into porcelain tiles. The domain is http://www.365drills.com so go take a look at the answer to all your prayers.. PS: It may be down for maintenance this weekend.



In short only diamond is hard enough to grind your tile. Metal will burn up. What we supply are top diamond drills with a drill plate or drill guide to lock the drill into place.



You will not break tiles. You will find its a very reasonable price solution. About £40 british pounds.



We are nice people. And quick to deliver.



Hope that answers your question and solves your desperation !!!

Answer 4

If you'd tried Big T advise and it didn't work then there's another way. Cut the tile in two pieces and notch out the pipe hole with a blade for cutting tile (a hand blade) it's easier then tossing out 22 bad pieces.

Answer 5

Diamond hole saws are available to cut holes in tile. Also tungsten saw blades which go into a hacksaw frame are available.

Answer 6

I hope your using a masonry bit!! If THAT doesn't work you need a diamond drill bit. Good luck. I hate laying tile.

Answer 7

what you can try is a dimond tiped drill bit it will take a lot of drilling small holes and a constant water supply to keep the drill bit clear of debris and cool