If you have a concrete patio and have decided to either install a rail or a decorative piece of art along the boundaries, you may decide that you need to drill holes in the concrete to ensure everything stays tightly secured. However, before you start drilling holes into the concrete surface, make sure you avoid the following mistakes.
Using the Wrong Drill Bit
While searching through your current supply of drill bits, you may reach for the largest one, thinking that it will be stout enough to cut through the concrete. However, if you use the wrong bit that is not specially designed for masonry, you risk having the bit break and fly off before you get past the surface.
Even if your current set of bits contains a masonry bit, take a look at the material from which it is made. If it is not made from tungsten carbide steel, which is an extremely durable and sharp metal, you still risk snapping or damaging the bit.
Rushing through the Task
Once you have the proper bit, you may feel you can start drilling, believing it will only take a few minutes to create the holes in the concrete. However, unlike drilling through wood, cutting into concrete takes patience. If you rush while drilling holes in concrete, you could damage both the drill bit and the concrete.
Since concrete is hard and durable, even a carbide steel bit will not slice through it like hot butter. You need to apply gentle pressure to the drill and allow the bit to slowly do its job of cutting the material.
If you try to push down hard, either or both the drill bit and the concrete can crack or break. If the latter breaks, you will have to have a concrete contractor repair the damage to your patio.
Failing to Use Water as a Lubricant
Along with not rushing through the job, you also need to not neglect to use lubricant to keep the drill bit and concrete cool. However, the only lubricant you should use is plain water.
If you use an oil to lubricate your drill bit, the friction caused by the drilling will catch it on fire. Using cool water provides enough lubrication to allow the bit to cut through the concrete while keeping the surfaces cool.
And don't be afraid to use a lot of water. Using too little can cause excess friction, creating stress fractures in the concrete.
Avoiding the above mistakes can help you prevent major damage to your drill, the bit, and the concrete. However, if you do not feel comfortable enough drilling the holes for fear of causing severe damage to your patio, contact a contractor to discuss the options of having them perform the concrete drilling for you.
