Tungsten carbide tile drill bits or glass drill bits are shaped to reduce the risk of shattering brittle materials with carbide tips. They function well and are cheaper than diamond bits, and better than masonry bits when drilling through such as porcelain tiles, because masonry bits’ shape increases the risk of shattering porcelain and other brittle tiles. While HSS drill bits will wear down after one or two holes, a tungsten carbide tile drill bit seem to be the most favorable.

 

How to drill through the porcelain or other brittle tiles? There are some tips:

 

Step 1: clean the tile's surface. Wipe the tile with a rag soaked in mild soap and water. Examine the cleaned surface for damage. If the tile is cracked, you'll need to replace it before you continue.

 

Step 2: wear safety glasses. Ideally, the tile should not chip or break. In the event that it does, your eyes should be protected.

 

Step 3: cover the area with masking tape. Tape over the area in an X shape, marking the site of the hole. This will help give the tungsten carbide tile drill bit some traction, reducing the chance of slipping. The tape also makes chipping less likely on the outer rim of the hole.

 

Step 4: tap the drill bit in lightly with a hammer. A tile drill bit may skip and jump around on the tile's smooth surface, unless you make a small pilot hole to steady it. Hold the drill bit over the center of the X and tap it in with a hammer. Tap gently to avoid damage, repeating until you've made a small dent through the surface of the glaze.If you're using a solid tungsten carbide tile drill bit larger than 1⁄4 inch (0.6 cm), consider drilling a pilot hole with a smaller bit first.