Fitting a grab-rail

[Scylax]

I need to install a grab-rail in the bathroom for a disabled relative, but the walls are covered by ceramic tiles. How does one drill through these without cracking them ?
Any advice gratefully received, thank you.

[Scylax]

Thank you, doc. You're a lifesaver. None of my diy books were of any help.

[Old_Geezer]

They probably thought you'd go carefully anyway, so didn't specify.

I used to use a bit of tape to mark the position and give a bit of grip when starting.

[chas2008]

put a bit of masking tape ( 2-3 thicknesses) on the tile over where you intend drilling, it helps stop the drill slipping/sliding .

[slinky.kate]

you can get hand grips with suction pads on them

[TonyV]

Agree with previous adcice about using masking tape on tile so that:
1. easy to mark drilling position &
2. stops drill bit sliding on glaze

Personally, I use drill bits like this for tile drilling

http://www.screwfix.c...-x-76-and-8-x-83-3Pcs

Sure you can get cheaper / single pieces at DIY sheds, if it's just for a one off

[regulo]

I'd steer clear of the suction jobbies, unless your tiles are PERFECTLY flat, and you can mount them so they don't cross a grout line, they can let go, with potentially disastrous consequences.

[Scylax]

Again, many thanks everyone for your help.
Kate: the suction type rails won't work, as the tiles have a somewhat rugged surface, but I appreciate your suggestion nevertheless.
Just a thought: what would we do without Answerbank ?

[scotman]

I agree with TonyV. Those drills are for glass and ceramics. Ensure that you start on a very slow speed until you break through the glaze. Practice on something if you can.

[TonyV]

Just an after thought Scylax - do you know what's behind the tiles? - plasterboard, brick, block, ply?
Really just to say make sure you use the correct fixings for whatever the sub base is and the expected loading.

Also the drill bits I mentioned are just for getting through the tile, then switch to appropriate bit for sub base

[regulo]

Scylax, "What would we do without Answerbank" . . . I'd make an awful lot of expensive mistakes!!!!

[jamesnan]

My husband fitted one on the wall for me, and the fixing holes were exactly in line with the grout lines, so that made it a lot easier

[Scylax]

Success. Advice taken, and a neat job it was. Solid as a rock, and a useful skill learned. God bless all respondents.