How to drill through plaster without cracking
Tools and Tips

How to drill through plaster without cracking

Drilling through stucco can be a daunting task, but I'll walk you through some methods for effectively drilling through stucco without cracking the surface.

As a professional handyman, I know how to cut holes in stucco without breaking it. Knowing how to properly use a drill is very important as this plaster is prone to cracking if not done properly. In addition, stucco siding is significantly more expensive than vinyl siding. Stucco costs $6 to $9 per square foot. So you can't afford to waste it.

In general, you need to follow these steps to carefully cut holes in your molding without breaking it:

  • Gather your materials
  • Decide where you want to drill the hole
  • Attach and position the drill well
  • Turn on the drill and drill until there is no more resistance.
  • Clean up the debris and insert the screw

I'll go into more detail below.

How to cut holes in plaster without breaking it

You can drill through stucco using the correct drill bit and type of drill bit. To make a larger hole, use a carbide or diamond tipped drill and a hammer drill.

Because stucco is such a durable concrete-like material, many people wonder if they can be drilled through; however, you can drill through this material if you have the right tools and the necessary know-how.

Type of drill for cutting holes in plaster

You can use a simple drill to cut very small holes in the plaster. It's best if you drill small holes so you don't have to buy a fancy specialty drill.

If you're planning on using a larger drill bit to make a larger hole, buy a hammer drill to penetrate the hard surface of the plaster.

Which drill to use

Smaller drill bits can be used with a standard drill to make very small holes in plaster.

Since larger bits are designed for rock drills and not drills, they may require an SDS connection. Before starting a project, double check that you have all the required connections.

The best bits for drilling through plaster are tungsten carbide or diamond tipped bits. Drilling in plaster is best done by combining these bits with an impact drill.

Drilling procedure

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Make sure you have a tape measure, pencil, suitable drill bit, dowel, screw and puncher. I also recommend wearing protective goggles - when they are removed, dirt and debris can get into your eyes. Therefore, in order not to damage your eyes, wear protective equipment. 

Step 2: Determine where you need to drill

Use a pencil and tape measure to determine exactly where you want to drill a hole in the plaster.

Step 3: Get a drill that fits the hole

Make sure your drill is not too big for the required hole or the screw won't fit snugly.

Step 4: Connect the drill

Attach the drill to the drill.

Step 5: Install the drill

Align the drill bit with the pencil mark you made on the plaster in step 2 with both hands.

Step 6: Turn on the drill

Pull the trigger to turn it on; lightly press down on the drill. When the trigger is pressed, the drill should automatically enter the plaster.

Step 7: Practice Until You Feel Resistance

Drill through the plaster until you feel resistance or until the desired length is reached. Drill a hole in the wall much deeper than the diameter of the screw to ensure a firm hold when completed.

Step 8: Clear out the trash

After drilling a hole, turn off the drill and use a can of compressed air or a washcloth to remove dirt and debris from the hole you just made. Be careful not to get debris in your face.

Step 9: Insert the screw

You can also use a wall anchor if you like. To secure the wall anchor, apply a small amount of sealant to the hole.

Tip. If the plaster is damaged, do not attempt to drill it. Once you have repaired and dried the cracked plaster, you can carefully drill through it.

F.A.Q.

Should I Hire a Professional to Repair My Stucco and Do It Myself?

It depends entirely on how you value your DIY skills. Plaster is relatively easy to repair if you have the right tools and experience.

Can anything be hung on plaster?

Plaster is an extremely durable material that is ideal for hanging things. You can hang things on it if you follow my tips and tricks for drilling holes in moldings.

Where can you buy plaster?

Plaster is rarely ready to use. Instead, you will need to buy a stucco kit and mix it yourself.

Summing up

Before drilling into plaster, make sure it is in good condition. Plus, drilling through plaster can be easy if you have the right equipment. If you follow the steps above carefully, you should have no problem drilling through the plaster.

Take a look at some of our articles below.

  • Can you drill vinyl siding?
  • Which drill bit is best for porcelain stoneware
  • Do drills work on wood

Video link

HOW TO DRILL INTO STUCCO WALL AND INSTALL WALL MOUNT

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