A good diamond hole saw set turns valve and pipe cut-outs from nerve-wracking to routine. Here's what to buy and how to use it.
The sizes you actually need
Most bathroom and kitchen work needs a handful of diameters: small sizes for anchors and supply lines, mid sizes for mixer valves, and a couple of larger sizes for drains and fixtures. A graduated set covers the common holes; add individual sizes for your most-used valves.
Wet vs. dry diamond hole saws
For porcelain and stone, wet diamond hole saws give the cleanest holes and the longest life — water cools the rim and controls dust. Dry/vacuum-brazed bits are convenient for quick holes but run hotter and wear faster on hard tile.
Use a guide and keep it cool
A drilling guide or jig stops the bit from wandering on slick tile; tape works in a pinch. Keep the bit wet, use light pressure, and start at a slight angle to bite before bringing it upright. See how to cut holes in tile.
Match the bit to the material
Hard porcelain and natural stone need true diamond bits — carbide will struggle and crack the tile. Browse hole saws and bits in our drilling collection.
FAQ
What size hole saw for a shower valve? It depends on the valve — a mid-size diameter is common; check the valve's spec and round up. A graduated set covers most.
Wet or dry diamond hole saw? Wet for porcelain and stone (cleaner, longer life); dry for quick holes in softer tile.
How do I stop cracking? Keep it wet, use a guide, light pressure, and let the diamond do the work.
Outfitting a crew? Get hole saw sets at contractor pricing and earn points with the Pro Program. Shop drilling tools →