FASTENERS 101™
Drill Bit FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Drilling
Pilot holes are a pre-drilled hole for the screw or bolt to go into.
Tapped holes are holes with threading cut into them with a specific kind of bit.
A countersunk hole is a hole sunk down into the material so the head of the fastener sits flush or under the top material.
It is always a good idea to pre-drill into wood before driving a screw, it will prevent cracks and splitting in the wood.
Using a hammer drill and a drill bit rated for masonry work.
A hammer drill can and usually should be used for drilling into a hard surface like brick or concrete. In contrast, an impact driver is used mainly for driving in fasteners like screws and nails.
No, spade bits are made for wood; using them in sheet metal will ruin the bit and result in an unclean hole.
A drill is a tool that spins drill bits at high speeds to quickly and efficiently cut holes into different materials.
Using a hole saw.
A car reamer is used to make an already existing hole bigger than the previous one.
Drill bit lubricant is used on metal to keep a drill bit from generating too much heat, which can cause it to expand and snap inside of a hole.
A step drill is commonly used when many different sized holes need to be drilled but carrying around a whole set of bits is inconvenient.
The drill bit size depends on the fastener diameter and material. Use a bit slightly smaller than the screw or bolt shank for pilot holes, and check manufacturer recommendations.
Use high-speed steel (HSS) or cobalt drill bits for metal, and match the bit size to the hole diameter. Lubrication is recommended for harder metals.
Yes, use a carbide-tipped masonry bit and a slow speed with light pressure, and consider a tile drill bit designed to prevent cracking.
A cordless drill with variable speed and a hammer function (e.g., from brands like DeWalt or Makita) is versatile for home projects.
Use the correct bit for the material, apply steady pressure, avoid overheating with lubricant, and ensure the drill is in good condition.
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Drill Bit Diagram
