How to Drill Bath Tap Holes

Learning how to drill tap holes in a bath sounds like a daunting task. If you’ve recently purchased a new bath, you might be wondering where to place your taps. While some baths come with pre-drilled tap holes, many do not, leaving it up to you to drill them yourself. Whether you’re fitting bath pillar taps or a mixer, this guide from Showers to You will walk you through everything you need to know about drilling tap holes in a bath. Plus, we’ll cover alternatives if DIY drilling isn’t your preference.

Tools You’ll Need to Get Started

Before anything else, gather the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Power drill
• An appropriate drill bit (including a 1/8-inch drill bit and a hole saw drill bit sized for your taps)
• Masking tape
• Ruler and tape measure
• Pen or pencil for marking positions
• Safety goggles and gloves for protection

These tools are essential for precise and safe drilling, and many of them can also be reused for future DIY projects. If you’re uncertain about the correct size hole saw drill bit, check your tap’s instructions or consult the manufacturer.

Preparing to Drill Your Bath

Measure and Mark Holes Accurately  

Proper preparation is key to a successful outcome. Begin by deciding where on the bath you want your taps positioned. Cover the area with masking tape to prevent scratches and ensure clear markings. Using a ruler and tape measure, mark where the holes will go. Double-check the spacing based on your tap’s specifications to avoid errors.

If your bath edge doesn’t come with a pre-marked template, you can place any washers provided with your taps down and trace around them. For best results, draw a circle with a small cross in the centre for precise drilling alignment.

Check and Double-Check Measurements  

The old saying “measure twice, cut once” is even more important when drilling tap holes in a bath. Once the holes are drilled, there’s no undoing it, so verify your measurements repeatedly before you start.

Step-by-Step Guide to Drilling Tap Holes

Step 1: Create Pilot Holes  

With your safety goggles and gloves on, attach the 1/8-inch drill bit to your drill. Begin by making shallow pilot holes at the centre of your marked circles. These act as guides for the hole saw drill bit, ensuring accuracy when drilling the final holes.

Step 2: Drill the Tap Holes  

Switch to a hole saw drill bit that matches your tap’s specifications. Place the drill bit over the marked circle, ensuring it aligns with the pilot hole. Drill slowly and steadily to maintain control and provide a clean cut. Once the drill bit cuts through the bath surface, remove the drilled material and clean up any debris.

For inspiration, consider the Beaufort Rockall 1650 x 700mm Single-Ended Bath, which is known for its quality and durability. Customers like Lisa N praise it as a “Lovely bath, very good quality,” while Steven B mentions it’s a “Fantastic product and great service from start to finish.” Ash H adds, “Nice bath, very rigid, easy to fit and looks great.”

Special Considerations for Different Bath Types

Acrylic Baths  

Acrylic baths are the most common type and are relatively easy to drill into. Their lightweight yet durable surface makes them a popular choice for DIYers.

Fibreglass Baths  

Some acrylic baths are reinforced with fibreglass, which makes them more resilient. However, fibreglass can be brittle when drilled, so wear gloves and goggles to protect yourself from any shards.

Avoid Drilling Steel or Cast Iron Baths  

Professionals best drill Cast Iron and cast iron bathsonals. These materials require specialised equipment, and improper drilling can cause rusting or damage to the bath’s enamel coating. If you own a bathtub like this, consider wall-mounted bath taps or freestanding tap options instead.

Are Baths Pre-Drilled?

Most baths are not pre-drilled, which allows customers to choose their preferred tap positioning. However, some models do include pre-drilled holes or templates. For example, the Burlington Arundel Bath 1700 x 750mm with Adjustable Legs comes with a template for easy drilling. According to Lara H, this bath is a standout choice, “Love this bath, nice level of detail to match the sink and toilet, nice straight sides, easy to wipe down and keep clean. Nice period-looking piece that is functional.”

Alternatives to Drilling Tap Holes

Not keen on DIY? These alternatives might suit your needs:

• Freestanding bath shower mixers eliminate the need for holes by sitting independently beside your freestanding bath.
• Wall-mounted taps mount directly onto the wall, offering a sleek and modern look. These work on freestanding baths or back-to-wall bathtubs.
• Overflow fillers combine tap functionality with bath overflow outlets for a minimalist design.
• Pre-drilled baths save work by providing ready-made holes. Most of the Ajax Bath Collection has pre-drilled tap holes.
• Professional assistance ensures precision if you’d prefer not to take on the drilling yourself.

Are Bath Taps 22mm?

This is a commonly asked question, and the answer is straightforward. Standard bath taps in the UK require a hole between 22mm and 35mm in diameter, depending on the tap model. The exact size of the drill bit you’ll need should be confirmed by checking your tap’s instructions or consulting the manufacturer.

What Size Drill Bit for Bath Taps?

When drilling bath tap holes, use a hole saw drill bit that matches the tap specifications. For standard UK taps, this is often between 22mm and 35mm in diameter, but the exact size can differ depending on the bath tap’s model and design.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to drill tap holes in a bath might seem intimidating, but with the right tools and clear instructions, it’s a manageable task for most DIY enthusiasts. Just remember:

1. Measure accurately and double-check before drilling.
2. Use the correct drill bit for your chosen tap model.
3. Wear protective gear and work carefully to avoid mistakes.

If you’re unsure or prefer not to DIY, don’t hesitate to consider professional help or choose a bath with pre-drilled tap holes.

For more expert guidance or to explore our range of high-quality baths, including models with pre-drilled tap holes, explore our bath collection.

 

For expert advice on choosing the perfect new bath or for further assistance, contact our team at info@showerstoyou.co.uk, give us a call at 01472 242159, or use our online contact form.