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Mastering Tile Drilling

June 29, 2024
drilling on tile tips by interior designer Patchi Cancado
Drilling into tile can be a daunting task due to the risk of cracking, but with the right approach and tools, it can be done safely and efficiently. When installing a large artwork on a bathroom wall clad in zellige tiles, we started by selecting a diamond-tipped drill bit, specifically designed to handle the hardness of the tile. We marked the exact spot to drill at the grout line where the corners of four tiles meet, ensuring that any future changes to the artwork or a potential sale of the house would only require a simple patch to cover the hole.
zellige tile bathroom renovation by interior designer Patchi Cancado
If you need to drill directly on the tile, I recommend placing a piece of masking tape over the selected spot to prevent the drill bit from slipping. This simple precaution helps to maintain control and precision during the drilling process, minimizing the risk of damaging the tile.
drilling on tile tips by interior designer Patchi Cancado
drilling on tile tips by interior designer Patchi Cancado
We began drilling at a low speed to avoid overheating, which can lead to cracks. Applying consistent, moderate pressure, we allowed the drill bit to do the work rather than forcing it through the tile. It’s also beneficial to periodically cool the drill bit with water to maintain a lower temperature and reduce the risk of damaging the tile.
zellige tile bathroom renovation by interior designer Patchi Cancado
We attached a wire to the back of our artwork for hanging, ensuring that we only needed one screw on the wall instead of two. This simplified the installation process significantly. Although the entire procedure took about 30 minutes—longer than I had anticipated—we completed the task without any damage. The result is a stunning piece of artwork displayed on the newly clad zellige wall.

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