What to Do Before Drilling in Concrete | Ashton Sawing and Drilling

A person using a drill to cut through concrete

Drilling into a concrete wall, floor, or other structure demands careful preparation to ensure the job goes smoothly and safely. Learn the essential steps and precautions to take before beginning your drilling project.

The Importance of Pre-Drilling Assessments

Always start with a thorough assessment to determine what lies beneath the surface. This involves using ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to detect and map the position of embedded objects like rebar, conduits, and post-tension cables. Once you identify these objects, you can plan your drilling process to avoid them, ensuring you don’t accidentally undermine the concrete’s structural integrity.

Choosing the Right Concrete Drilling Tools

Using the appropriate drill bit is another vital step when preparing to drill in concrete. Opt for a diamond or carbide-tipped drill bit specifically designed for drilling into hard materials like concrete and steel. These bits attach to powerful drilling machines that get the job done.

Drilling machines vary from handheld drills for small or tight spaces to heavy-duty rotary hammers and hammer drills. The power output and weight of the drill impact its ability to handle tough jobs. A higher wattage and durable build are the key to prolonged use and handling dense materials without overheating. For large projects, stand-mounted core drills that can be anchored to the concrete are ideal. Always ensure the machine’s specifications match the project requirements for maximum efficiency and safety when drilling in concrete.

Concrete Drilling Checklist

Before you start drilling, run through this checklist to ensure you’ve taken all the necessary drilling safety precautions:

Conduct a GPR scan to locate utilities and obstacles within the concrete.
Choose the correct drill bit for the material and type of job.
Set up your drilling equipment properly to ensure accuracy and safety.
Wear the appropriate safety gear, such as gloves, goggles, and ear protection.
Check that the power source is adequate for your drill’s requirements.
Inspect drill bits for wear or damage to ensure they are in good condition.
Clearly mark where you plan to drill to avoid errors.
Clear the work area of unnecessary objects or debris.
Set and verify the depth stop on your drill to avoid drilling deeper than necessary.
Review structural plans, if available, to avoid compromising structural integrity.
Secure loose clothing and hair to prevent entanglement in the drill.
Run a brief drill test to ensure it’s working correctly before beginning the actual drilling.
Regularly remove debris and water used for cooling to keep the drilling area clear and safe.
Plan for the proper disposal of concrete dust and debris generated during drilling.

Leave Concrete Drilling to the Professionals

While taking on a DIY drilling project might seem feasible, the complex nature of the work means it’s better to opt for professional services. Ashton Sawing and Drilling LLC draws from over 20 years of industry experience, providing top-notch concrete drilling services in Texas and Louisiana. Our commitment to quick turnaround times, competitive pricing, and customer satisfaction makes us the preferred choice. For a safe and seamless drilling experience in Dallas, Houston, New Orleans, or Baton Rouge, please contact us today.