Replies

1. 
   Cloud_Hidden | May 25, 2001 07:42pm | #1

   *
   Buy the special bits. They're in the tile section at any of the box stores or wherever you got the tile. They look almost like a tiny arrowhead. Make sure to set the point before you start drilling so that it doesn't scoot.

   Jim

1. 
   Robert_Clinch | May 26, 2001 04:08am | #2

   *Rich,a masonry bit will do the job and if a hammer drill is available that will help.If possible try an keep holes in a grout line.This will get you the holes but im a little confused about a shower bar holding a shower head?

1. 
   mark_cadioli | May 26, 2001 09:06am | #3

   *do not use a hammer drill. you stand a good chance of fracturing the tile. Do not try to drill through the grout line..there is a good chance the "wings" of the drill bit will catch on the edge of the tile and crack it. Plot your holes, put the tip of the drill bit on the mark and apply a lot of pressure. The job will be easier if you have a variable speed drill. Start with a very slow speed. The drill bit will tend to want to scoot all over. Once you are through the glaze you can increase your speed. Do not use the hammer function.( A Grohe shower is a hand held shower that slides up and down on a rail that is mounted vertically to the wall )

1. 
   Ian.D.Gilham. | May 26, 2001 10:23am | #4

   *Stick a piece of masking tape to the tile and drill through it helps to stop the drill bit wandering

1. 
   G.LaLonde | May 26, 2001 02:03pm | #5

   *Take a very sharp center punch and gently chip out the glazed surface of the tile where you want to drill. When you have the glazing removed from the 5/16" area, you can use a masonry bit to finish the hole. You don't have to hammer or apply much pressure to the drill. This method is practically foolproof!

2. 
   Rich_C. | May 26, 2001 02:03pm | #6

   *
   I need to drill two 8mm (should I use a 5/16" bit) through ceramic tile in my shower for plastic anchors to secure a shower bar to hold a Grohe shower head. Can I use a conventional drill bit made for metal or do I have to buy a special bit. I want to do everything possible not to crack the tile!