I'm in the process of installing a microwave and need to drill through some ceramic tile to secure a screw into the stud behind it. The instructions suggest using a 3/16 inch drill bit as a pilot hole for the screw. My question is, should I make that hole larger to prevent chipping the tile? If so, how much larger should I go? I want to avoid buying a whole set of drill bits if possible. Thanks for your help!
2 Answers
You definitely want the hole in the tile to be big enough that the screw can fit through without binding. A too-tight hole could lead to cracking. If the instructions recommend a 3/16 inch drill bit, I'd suggest going up to at least a 1/4 inch or even a little more, just to be safe. You want that screw to slide in smoothly!
Yes, it's a good idea to make the hole slightly larger than the screw to prevent the tile from bearing any load. This way, you minimize the risk of cracking or damaging the tile. Using a washer is also recommended to distribute the pressure evenly. As for size, the 3/16 inch is likely for the pilot hole into the wood, so you might want to consider going up to a 1/4 inch hole for the tile. That should give your screw enough room without being too tight, which helps avoid chips or cracks. Just be careful with the type of screw you use!