Choosing the Right Drill Bit Size for Tiling Projects

When choosing tile drill bits, knowing which size bit to choose is as important as knowing which bit to use. Like any other project, having the right size bit makes all the difference. Using a bit that is too large for more intricate work or one that is too small to handle harder types of tile ends up causing damage to your bits and your tool. The right size bits give you better results, ensuring clean, smooth holes without the risk of cracks or other issues. 

Before we share our tips on choosing the right size tile drill bits, let’s look at a few other things you’ll need to know before you get to work. These bits are made specifically for tile, with unique designs and materials that allow them to get through various types of tile. The main types include glass and tile bits, ceramic tile bits and diamond core bits.

Glass and Tile Bits have a profiled tip made of tungsten carbide, making them durable and long-lasting. They are best for standard and lighter work. Ceramic Tile Bits have an asymmetrical carbide tip and are typically suited to ceramic and harder porcelain tile. Diamond Tile Core Bits are used in industrial projects and granite tiles. 

Knowing which tile drill bit is right for your project is the first step you’ll need to take before choosing the right size. To determine the bit, you’ll need to think about the material of the tile and your specific project, whether it’s retiling a bathroom, adding a small backsplash behind your stove or planning a large construction project.

Which Tile Drill Bit Size is Best?

Now that you have some idea of tile drill bits, how do you go about choosing the right size? Here are a few things to consider.

Small tiles

For intricate designs or smaller tiles, you’ll need smaller bits made for softer tile types. Ruwag offers a range of sizes in our glass and tile range and ceramic tile range starting from 4mm x 75mm. These are perfect for drilling holes for wall decorations, light fixtures or intricate tile designs. As we briefly mentioned earlier, always make sure you choose a small bit for delicate materials or smaller tiles as larger bits can ruin your results and material.

Standard tiles

For everyday tiling tasks, such as installing bathroom fixtures, retiling walls or floors or creating holes for plumbing, medium-sized drill bits like 6mm x 55mm or 6mm x 65mm are your best bet. They offer a good balance between precision and strength, ensuring clean holes without tile breakage. Smaller sizes may not be big enough to handle medium-sized tiles, with more risk of damaged bits or bits getting broken or stuck as you work.

Larger or harder tiles

For large tiles or projects that require heavy drilling, such as holes for heavy fixtures or large anchors, larger drill bits like 10mm x 120mm are best These bits are designed to handle heavier tasks without the risk of damaged material or bits. Using small bits can pose a safety hazard - especially when it comes to hard tiles.

Specialised work

For tasks that require drilling through very hard materials like granite, you’ll need a diamond core bit. With sizes ranging up to 10mm, these bits are designed to get through even the toughest materials with ease.

Understanding Tile Drill Bit Ratings

Another important thing to consider is tile drill bit ratings. When choosing bits and sizes, always read selection charts. This will allow you to choose the right drill bit for the specific project you are planning. At Ruwag, our tile bits have the following ratings:

• Class 0: Mainly wall tiles.
• Class 1: Areas with light foot traffic.
• Class 2: General residential areas.
• Class 3: Residential and light commercial zones.
• Class 4: Medium commercial areas.
• Class 5: High-traffic and moisture-prone areas.

Always check the recommended rating in the selection chart before choosing your bit type and size. This will give you the best results and prevent any issues. 

Whether you’re planning a small job or something bigger, Ruwag offers a range of premium-quality drill bits that are made to last. View our full collection to find the best tile drill bit for your needs.