As granite counters and flooring are quite popular choices, it makes sense that homeowners may need to drill through pavers on the odd occasion. Whilst they are known for their hardness, it is important to remember that granite pavers are also quite brittle, which makes them difficult to work with. Using the wrong method or tool often results in the stone cracking or the drill bit being ruined. We have provided some basic drilling instructions here:
1. Be certain that you really need to drill a hole in the place you are thinking about drilling one. It is always best to consider other alternatives before you start putting holes in the pavers, especially when you’re working with a material as expensive as granite.
2. Determine the ideal hole size that you need to drill. For the addition of taps and other hardware, the required hole size will often be included on the packaging. For other projects, you will need to measure up the ideal hole size yourself – just be sure to never oversize!
3. Mark the area where you plan to drill. For smaller diameter holes, a small dot will do. For larger diameter holes, use a template or trace around a precise circle that corresponds with the hole. If you’re concerned about the drill bit slipping, clamp some scrap wood to the granite paver.
4. Clamp a piece of stone scrap underneath the area where you will be drilling (if applicable). This will help to prevent chipping on the underside of the granite. For maximum safety and precision, we recommend placing a clamp to either side of the hole.
5. Insert the desired size diamond drill bit into your high-speed drill or (using a drill bit adaptor) into your angle grinder. Ensure that the tool is specifically designed for use with granite; diamond core bits have a good reputation for drilling through these pavers with ease.
6. Begin drilling at a steady speed. Some drill bit manufacturers will recommend using water to cool and lubricate the tool; others say that this is not necessary. If you do use water, using plumbers putty to create a dam around the granite pavers to contain it.
7. Continue drilling until you have gone through the granite surface and have hit the stone scrap underneath. It does not matter how far into the stone scrap you drill; its primary purpose is to prevent your pavers from chipping. It can pay to avoid going all the way through, though.
8. If you are drilling multiple holes, ensure that you cool the drill bit with water in between them. This will help to prevent damage to both the tool and the granite. This is not a concern if you are using multiple drill bits for multiple, different sized holes.
It is important that you wear safety goggles or glasses whenever you use a power drill or angle grinder. This is especially important when working with hard materials, like
granite pavers, as they will protect your eyes in case of flying debris or, God forbid, a flying tool. It is also recommended that you undertake such projects with the assistance of a helper; having an extra pair of eyes can often help to avoid damage and other issues.