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Person using painters, measuring tape and pencil to make marks on wall.

Overview

Find out how to drill through a tiled wall properly. We'll show you some simple techniques to protect the tiles as you drill. You'll also see how to use masking tape for more accurate drilling.

Steps

1Prepare the area before you drill through a tile

Put a drop sheet down to protect your floor. Then measure and mark the tiles where you want your hole. Now put a piece of masking tape over your mark. You can then redraw your mark on the tape to make it clearer. The tape also helps keep your drill bit in place as you drill.
Person using painters, measuring tape and pencil to make marks on wall.

2Drill a hole through the tile

Use a power drill with a special tile drill bit. Apply an even, firm pressure as you drill. This helps protect your tile from cracking. It's also a good idea to keep your hole shallow, just in case there are pipes or wires in the wall. Remove the tape and you're done.
Person drilling into tiled wall, using pre-set mark as a guide.

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.