The Right Drill Bits for Every Material

There’s a drill bit for every material, although it can quickly become overwhelming with so many options out there. While you can get multi-purpose drill bits, if you’re regularly working across different surfaces, it pays to have all the specific drill bits you need to get a quality job done.

Take a look at our table below to see what style of drill bit suits the most common materials, alongside more detailed advice for drilling into each.

The Right Drill Bit for Every Material

What Drill Bits are Best for Metal?

Quick Answer: HSS (High-Speed Steel) or Cobalt

If you’re working with metal, you generally want to go with a High-Speed Steel or HSS drill bit. These are made with materials like carbon steel alloys that are designed to withstand the heat that comes from drilling into hard materials like metals and hardwoods.

Not all metals are alike, however. HSS is a versatile drill bit for regular use, but if you’re working with a harder material, like stainless steel, look out for cobalt drill bits. Cobalt is an even stronger and more heat-resistant material, so it’s perfect for harder metals.

What Drill Bits are Best for Brick, Masonry or Concrete?

Quick Answer: Masonry or Tungsten Carbide. Also, SDS or Core Drill Bits

Masonry drill bits are specifically designed for the challenges of hard materials such as masonry, brick or concrete. They’re usually made from tungsten carbide, which makes them incredibly tough, and come with an S-shaped tip to help remove debris.

Because masonry is such a tough material, many masonry drill bits are designed to be used with hammer drills that help power the bit through the material.

If you’re working with a really hard bit of masonry, another option is an SDS drill bit. Only compatible with SDS drills, these offer powerful hammering action to get through the toughest of materials.

Another bit to consider of doing property work is a core drill bit. These are specifically designed for cutting precise holes for things like pipes and wires, with a hollow centre and super tough edge.

What Drill Bits are Best for Wood?

Quick Answer: HSS. Also Auger, Flat/Spade, or Brad Point Drill Bits

Wood is such a common material that most standard drill bits, such as high speed steel (HSS), will do the job. However, there are a lot of different options depending on what wood you’re working with and what you need for your job.

If clean and precise drilling is the most important thing, look for an auger drill bit. Its pointed, corkscrew design is ideal for things like hinges, although the pointed tip can cause some problems with some softwoods. Brad point drill bits are very similar but are more suited to shallower holes, whereas auger bits can be used for deeper drilling.

Another way to create holes in wood quickly and easily is by using a flat or spade drill bit. Specifically designed for use in wood, they’re usually inexpensive and make cutting holes in wood a breeze.

What Drill Bits are Best for Tiles?

Quick Answer: Tile or Glass Drill Bits

Because tiles and glass are so delicate, they require especially tough drill bits that can cut through cleanly without damaging the material.

Tile drill bits usually come with a studded diamond and/or carbide tip that prevents cracking or chipping. Many tile drill bits have a flat head, but they can also be pointed.

What Drill Bits for Plasterboard?

Quick Answer: Multi-Purpose or HSS Drill Bits

For most plasterboard uses, you’ll be fine using a regular multi-purpose drill bit, such as a high-speed steel (HSS).

Designed for use in multiple materials such as wood and metals, these drill bits deliver enough power but not too much that they could damage the board. So long as you don’t use an ultra-tough or material-specific drill bit (such as a tile or masonry bit), you should be fine.

Need any fixings? See our selection of plasterboard fixings and anchors. 

Other Types of Drill Bits and Their Uses

Above covers the majority of drill bits regularly used by tradespeople. However, here are some other types of drill bits you might come across and when they make sense to use.

Countersink Drill Bits

Countersink drill bits are specifically designed to create a finish for a countersink screw to sit neatly against the material. They are used after the hole has been drilled to ensure the countersunk screw can be accommodated.

Countersink drill bits are available for a range of materials, most commonly wood and metal.

Plug Cutter Drill Bits

Plug cutters are professional carpentry tools designed to conceal fasteners and provide a clean and professional finish. Unless you’re specifically doing carpentry or woodwork, you’re unlikely to need these.

Forstner Drill Bits

Forstner bits are primarily a woodworking tool, helping to achieve clean and precise holes without splintering and chipping. These can be ideal if you’re working on thin pieces of wood, such as furniture.

If you have any other questions about what drill bits to use and when, feel free to reach out to our team, who will be happy to help you find the perfect product for your needs.