When you need a clean hole through porcelain or ceramic for a faucet, mixer or shower valve, RUBI DRYGRES dry diamond drill bits are the fast, dust-light way to do it. Here is when to reach for them and how to drill without cracking tile.
What DRYGRES bits are for
DRYGRES bits cut dry in a standard drill, with no water feed needed, which makes them ideal for on-wall holes where you cannot flood the surface. They handle porcelain, ceramic, gres and most stone, in sizes from small valve holes up to large 68 mm-plus bores.
How to drill clean holes
- No hammer: rotation only. Hammer mode shatters tile.
- Start at an angle to bite the glaze, then bring the bit upright once it catches.
- Moderate speed, light pressure. Let the diamonds cut; forcing overheats the bit.
- Cool periodically on dense porcelain, even with a dry bit, to extend its life.
Choosing a size
Match the bit to the fitting: small bits for valve stems and supply lines, mid sizes for mixers, and large diameters for shower and basin fittings. A guide jig keeps big bits from wandering on slick tile.
DRYGRES vs a carbide hole saw
Carbide hole saws struggle on hard porcelain and dull fast; diamond DRYGRES bits stay sharp and cut cleaner. For thick pavers or repeated production holes, see our guide to diamond hole saw sets.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use DRYGRES bits wet? They are designed for dry use, but a little water extends life on dense tile. Keep the drill out of standing water.
Shop tiling tools and read how to cut holes in tile. Pro Program members earn points on every bit.