Residential & Commercial Security - Locks, Keys & Dead Bolts - Installing surface bolts on door

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View Full Version : Installing surface bolts on door


txnoob
08-01-06, 10:45 AM
A while back I purchased a few brass surface bolts to mount on my door to provide a little extra security. Here is an example of what it looks like:

http://www.deltana.net/42.htm


Anyway, mounting it to the door poses no problem, rather making a half-circle hole about 1/2" deep is what's giving me the trouble. On one door, the surface is concrete; another door the surface is a ceramic tile. I have tried using a drill but it isn't working at all. It just makes a larger hole than I'd like and makes a big mess. I don't have a hammer drill either, so what do the pros use when installing these types of bolts? Just a hammer and chisel?


cuedude
08-01-06, 03:49 PM
Hi txnoob,

Nice choice on the bolt. I sometimes have the need to install bolts like this, and usually it is through tile. My recommendation is go out and rent a hammer drill, and get a good bit. Usually, I use a masonry bit, but those can cause the hole to be out of round. (I use them for mounting safes and the like where the hole is not seen). Try using a ceramic bit. It looks strange, but they work. They are nothing more than a bit shaft, with a flat tip, shaped like an arrow head. These drill much neater holes. Give that a try, and stop back with an update?

cuedude

GlobalLocky
08-01-06, 11:15 PM
Another alternative is an expensive one tho...

You could look to purchase diamond bitted drills....
They will drill thru ceramic tile painlessly and easily.
You will be required to purchase quite small bits and this can be a problem because they are very expensive and very fragile...you will need to lace drill your holes to the required shape.

As for the concrete...I'm afraid you are stuck with masonry bits.