I'm planning to install a range hood and need to create a 6" hole in my exterior brick wall. I'm considering using a 6"1/4" diamond core drill bit along with a hammer drill. Would this setup make the job quick and easy, or should I go the traditional route of drilling a 6" circle and then drilling smaller holes around it to chisel out the section? Which method would be simpler?
3 Answers
You should definitely rent a Hilti hole saw driver from a tool rental place. They bolt into the wall and handle the torque automatically, which makes drilling much easier. It's worth the rental fee, typically between $100-200 for a day.
Don't go with the hammer drill. Grab that 6-1/4" core bit and use it with a regular drill instead. Core bits are designed specifically for this kind of work without causing vibration. Just make sure you use water to keep it cool while drilling. Head to your local rental store for the drill and bit, set it up on a stand, go slow, and definitely wear hearing protection. It’ll make the process smoother.
I've done it before with a rotary hammer for smaller ductwork. You could mark your hole, drill a bunch of 1/2" holes around the perimeter, then switch to a chisel bit and hammer mode to take out the middle section. Investing in a rotary hammer is worthwhile if you're into DIY projects—it makes a big difference! Just be careful; it's easy to get the big bit stuck if you're not cautious. You could even consider hiring a local coring company if you want to avoid the hassle.