shower and tiling query

[David WE Roberts]

Hi,

just about to rip out and redo the bathroom.

We will be re-tiling completely, and adding a thermostatic shower to run from our new combi boiler.

The shower piping will come up or through the wall (probably through - routed up the wall of the adjacent toilet).

The current question is:

Do I tile first then drill the holes for the pipes, or drill and fit the pipes first then cut a hole in the tiles before fitting?

TIA

Dave R

[manatbandq]

For coming through the wall I have always tiled then drilled, ensuring the tile adhesive has had plenty off time to set.

YMMV but I always drill with an SDS with hammer action on at low speed and I've never cracked a tile , except once when I was in a rush and tried to do too soon after putting the tiles up.

MBQ

[The Natural Philosopher]

I have always done it the reverse way..as manipulating plumbing is a PITAS and it ever ends up quite where you expect it.

If you can make the former work, it is of course neater..drill oversize holes though and cover with chrome plates or fill with grout.

[Lobster]

Well just to make a complete set of contradictory answers for you, I'll add that I sort of do both at the same time...!

David