How do you drill concrete with a hammer drill?

Here's how to effectively drill concrete using a hammer drill:

Preparing to Drill

Before you start drilling, make sure you have the right tools and safety equipment. You'll need:

• A hammer drill.
• Appropriate sized concrete drill bits.
• Safety glasses and gloves.
• A dust mask (optional, but recommended for prolonged drilling).
• Measuring tools and a pencil to mark your drilling location.

Step-by-Step Guide to Concrete Drilling

Follow these steps for successful concrete drilling:

1. Mark Your Spot: Accurately mark the drilling location on the concrete using a pencil.
2. Position the Drill: Carefully place the drill bit on your marked spot. Ensure that your drill bit is perpendicular to the drilling surface.
3. Start Slowly: Begin drilling on the slowest speed setting. This helps to establish a hole and prevents the bit from slipping.
4. Increase Speed: Once the drill bit has "bitten" into the concrete and is stable in the hole, you can gradually increase the drill speed.
5. Drill at Full Speed: Continue drilling at full speed until you reach the desired depth.
6. Maintain Pressure: Apply consistent, firm pressure on the drill. Avoid forcing it, let the drill do the work.
7. Clear Debris: Periodically remove the drill bit from the hole to clear any concrete dust or debris. This helps the bit cool down and prevents it from getting stuck.

Practical Tips

• Pilot Hole: For larger holes, starting with a smaller pilot hole can make drilling easier.
• Water Cooling: Using a small amount of water can help cool the drill bit and reduce dust, but be careful with electric drills.
• Sharp Bits: Always use sharp, undamaged drill bits designed for concrete. Dull bits will make the job harder and can damage your drill.

Table of Steps

Step	Description
1	Mark the drilling spot.
2	Place the drill bit perpendicular to the surface.
3	Start the drill on slow until the bit "bites."
4	Increase speed after the hole is established.
5	Continue drilling at full speed.
6	Apply consistent pressure.
7	Remove debris periodically.

By following these steps, you can efficiently and safely drill holes in concrete with a hammer drill.