Constructions could be exciting while you are learning about it, but the real part is when you are actually working on a project, and you get faced with some problem you cannot quickly solve, like drilling.
Having a smooth drilling process through a concrete wall could pose as a major problem, most times you would get faced with hard pebbles and rocks, not understanding how to handle them could be an end to your drill bit.
One of the essential things you have to know about rocks is that it is one of the hardest substances you might have to drill through during a construction process.
So if you are faced with drilling into a rock, what would you do? Well, you do not need to hire a professional mason to handle this task for you, with the right tools, we have five necessary steps you need to follow to complete this job.
Steps to follow
Step #1: Plan your drill
You would have to consider a few things before you proceed to the main drilling process one of it is the size of the rock you are drilling.
The size would determine the kind of drill you would use, for large rocks where you have to be very flexible enough to move around, a cordless hammer drill is recommended. Even though a corded hammer drill might also work fine, the cordless drill would allow you to move around freely.
Another thing to consider is the portion of the rock you plan to drill and also the size and amount of holes you intend to put through it. The size of bit you use would determine the width of the hole you are drilling, and for accuracy, you can use a pencil to make a mark on the place or places you want to dig through so that you would be able to guide your tool through the rock.
Your plan would depend on the size of the rock, but you can put some modeling clay at the base of the stone while you drill to hold it steady for your drill, and also to keep the bit from piercing through your worktable.
If they are small rocks, then you can get some clay, put them at the bottom of a container and place your rocks in it for drilling.
Step #2: Prepare your tool
As much as possible, try to use a charged cordless hammer drill.
Rock is a hard substance, so you would need all the power you can get, so if your tool is not powered enough, you should insert a freshly charged battery into it.
When you are using a corded hammer drill for a large rock that cannot be easily moved, you can connect it to an extension cord that would reach the work location.
Asides the drill, there are other items that you would need like a small plastic container if you are working on small rocks, molding clay, water, masonry drill bit, safety glasses, dust mask, and lastly the rocks you are working on.
Step #3: Prepare your bit
After considering the size of the hole, and the size of bit that would match that purpose, the next thing would be to select the most suitable type of drill bit.
Drilling through rock would require a carbide or diamond tipped masonry drill bit. You can install your bit by loosening the chuck of your drill, inserting the end of the bit and then retighten the chuck.
You should close the chuck up properly so that the bit is perfectly fitted; it would help avoid accidents during the work process. Attempting to use any other type of bit to drill into a rock like a wood bit could result in serious injuries
Step #4: Position your bit
One thing is to have the correct bit the other is to know how to use it. The best way to drill a perfect hole in your rock is by using a pencil or a marker to plot your drill, as we have mentioned above.
Now place your drill bit right over the first marked spot on the rock, then lower the tip of the bit down slowly so that it is aligned and straight like you are forming a 90% (although this would depend on the angle of the hole you want to create).
If you are drilling small rocks on a work table, you should place your bit in a steady and vertical position.
Step # 5 Now drill!
The last step after you have positioned your bit is to commence the drilling process, before you do so, put on your dust mask and safety glasses and exert pressure on the drill while you squeeze the trigger. You should do it slowly at first applying a gently up and down motion, then enforce more pressure as you increase the speed.
You should ensure that the bit maintains its straight position into the rock so you can have a nice outcome, do this until you meet your desired depth then remove the bit from the stone. The same process of positioning your bit and drilling can also be repeated for the other marked spots.
For small rocks, place them in a plastic container that has clay at the bottom, then adds some water until your rocks are submerged. The water is to keep the rock free of debris and also keep the bit cool as it faces friction with the stone. Now drill! When the job is complete, you can clean and dry up your rock.
Conclusion
Apart from building, rocks are used for several other purposes, one of them could be for ornamentals.
Of course, rocks and sea glasses are some inexpensive way to add beauty to your ornamental works, but sometimes you may have to drill a hole through these stones for wiretapping, that is where this article comes in.
In these five short and straightforward step guide you can get these jobs completed.