Numpty question of the day- can you drill tiles?

[notasize10yetbutoneday]

And should a complete novice attempt it?

We have had our bathroom redone and it is gorgeous. But, numpty that I am, I didn't buy a toilet roll holder in time for the plumber finishing, and now I have one I don't feel I can get him back just to fix a toilet roll holder to the wall for me.

Should I attempt this myself? I am scared. Will our beautiful new tiles shatter if I attempt it?

WWYD?

[CerealOffender]

yes but you need a ceramic drill bit.

[dontstopmenow]

You can drill tiles apparently but you need a special drill bit to cut into tiles without shattering. (I would get the plumber back in case you spoil beautiful bathroom)

[ib]

You can use a ceramic drill bit - it's just a better shape to stop it slipping out of place. Or you can tape over the place you want to make the hole with masking tape and use a drill bit suitable for concrete.

It's generally a good idea to put masking tape on first for ease of marking the place anyway, much easier than straight on the tiles.

[notasize10yetbutoneday]

Thank you all- Im still scared of ruining beautiful bathroom...might buy one of thiose freestanding jobbies instead...or are they naffola?

Plumber lives in next town 25 milesaway so would feel guilty making him come back just for that and I know hes really busy. Oh i don't know.

[violethill]

How about one of those toilet dollies perched on top of the cistern?

[notasize10yetbutoneday]

Violethill

[chegggersplayspop]

Get a handyman in to do it. Don't ruin your lovely new bathroom. You will never feel happy with a freestanding one and it will always bug you.

[SlobbyBOB]

Or get a suction twist and lock type instead.

www.diy.com/diy/jsp/bq/nav.jsp?action=detail&fh_secondid=10437510&ecamp=trf-005&CAWELAID=355615349

[chegggersplayspop]

It doesn't come with glowing reviews though

[SlobbyBOB]

Oh didnt see that.

Twas for example only.

[DitaVonCheese]

I did it and I'm a complete novice You just need a drill bit that's shaped like a harpoon and it's a lot easier if you use something to make a dimple in the tile first (by scraping, not hitting) to stop the bit sliding about. Also don't bother getting those bag things that are supposed to collect the dust as you drill, because they bloody don't.

However, my drilling was going to be covered up by a ginormous cupboard and my bathroom was not beautiful Presumably you have just lobbed a load of money in your plumber's direction so I'm sure he won't mind popping back, though it might be when he's between jobs or on his way back from somewhere.

[catinthehat2]

You must have a spare tile knocking around. Practice first by scraping a dent then putting adhesive tape (I juat use sellotape) until you get the idea & get a bit more confidence. YOu will definitely do it without casusing death & destruction - have confidence!

[notasize10yetbutoneday]

Catinthehat that is a brilliant idea about practising on a spare tile- we have loads in the garage. Will go to B&Q and ask where the harpoon shaped drill bits are...

[mustrun]

Get one of the kids to hold the hoover nozzle under as you drill, catches all the dust nice and easily