How to Drill Cleanly Through Tile, Brick and Glass

Drilling hard surfaces goes wrong fast when the bit skates or overheats. A few simple habits keep holes neat and bits alive. Here is a grounded routine for tile, brick and glass work at home.

Match the bit to the surface

Carbide masonry bits handle brick, glass, ceramic and thin metal. Check the maker's list before you start. A quality carbide masonry drill bit set spanning several sizes lets you pick the right diameter for each anchor.

Mark and start slow

Mark your point and start at low speed. A ground spear tip reduces skating on smooth glazes. Let the tip bite before adding pressure, and keep the drill vertical for a straight, clean entry.

Keep the bit cool

Heat kills masonry bits. Run a flow of cooling water over the tip as you drill, especially on tile and glass. Pause often. Cooling protects the carbide and keeps the hole edge from chipping.

Use steady, moderate pressure

Let the bit do the work. Firm, even pressure beats forcing it. Ease off as you break through the back face to avoid cracking tile or blowing out brick.

Know the limits

These bits are not rated for hard tile. Pushing them there wears the tip and risks breakage. Pick a stronger diamond option for that job and save your masonry set for its intended surfaces.

The bottom line

Slow starts, vertical drilling and constant cooling deliver clean holes on hard surfaces. Match the bit to the material, respect its limits, and a good masonry set will handle most home fixing jobs.