Enlarging 4" hole through ceramic tiles

Dec 28, 2004 7 Replies

I'm now tiling the ceiling of my shower cubicle, into which there will be a shower fan/light inset, so a 4" diameter hole is needed through the tiles. This will affect 2 tiles only, and I've already cut out two half-moons from these using a hand tile-saw but have yet to attach these two to the ceiling. These are standard ceramic tiles, ~6mm thick.



Unfortunately however, the hole's a bit tight for the fan, so I need to enlarge the diameter by 1 or 2 mm - the sort of task I'd normally do using a file or rasp were I working in wood or metal. But what would be a good way of abrading a ceramic tile without busting it? (It took a long time to saw the hole, so I'd rather not have to do it again!)



Thanks



David


Leave the tiles off and cut them to shape with a tile saw before you install them around the ceiling fitting. You won't get a good cut that size after they're stuck in place, believe me.

Erm, yes, I agree entirely - that's why I'd already done that step...!

David

You could always see how much meat there is in the fan housing, and see if it could deal with a trim.

I have successfully enlarged/straightened cut-outs in tiles with a very fine file - the flat one from a set of "warding files". It really depends on how much of the tile there is left - I wouldn't want to do it on any narrow projections.

I'm trying to think if I've ever seen ceramic tiles on a ceiling, sure will make it sound extra "echoey" in there ...

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required