How do I attach this plantation shutter to tiled window frame?

[JamesG]

I have a DIY PVC plantation shutter I need to attach to a tiled window frame in a bathroom.

Any tips for how to safely attach screws into the tiles without cracking them?

[EricL]

Hello @JamesG 

Thanks for sharing your question about installing your plantation shutter. Before you start drilling, I suggest having a good look at the installation point of the plantations shutters hinges. I advise not having it very close to the edge of the tile as it might crack the edge of the tile itself. If possible, I propose installing the hinge holes closer to the middle of the tile so that it is not under any stress.

I also suggest having a look at this discussion - Best drill bit for vitreous china (WC)? by @bazzyboy. This discussion will give you a general idea of what it looks like when drilling into ceramic surfaces. If the plantation shutter came with wall screws, I suggest getting the same size but longer so that it can anchor properly in the wall plug you'll be using. 

I recommend using Ramset 6 x 38mm Universal Anchor - 6 Pack, however, if you feel you need a beefier plug, I suggest using the next size up. Please note that you'll need to change to larger screws so that it will grab on to the wall plug.

In regards to the drill bit itself, I suggest having a look at the QEP 6mm Diamond Tile Drill Bit. It includes a drill guide and a water cooling cup. It's great for cutting holes in glass, ceramic, porcelain, marble and granite. My number one tip is to never run it dry and always use the water chamber provided. The water keeps the head of the cutting bit nice and cool and prevents it from overheating.

My number on tip is to mark your drilling points very well. Unlike timber that allows you a bit of leeway when you drill the hole out of alignment, tile mounting points must be precise as it does not allow you make corrections after drilling.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[JamesG]

Thanks Eric. Appreciate the advice!

[JamesG]

Project is now finished, so thought I'd post pictures of the finished project.

In the end, I only needed timber screws as the window frame was under the tiles. I also used a standard ceramic tile drill bit which worked fine. I used a water spray bottle to eliminate dust and keep the drill bit cool.

Thanks

[MitchellMc]

That looks sensational @JamesG! What a fantastic job you've done.

Many thanks for sharing your results with us.

Mitchell

[EricL]

Hi @JamesG 

Thank you very much for that update. Your installation looks fantastic, and the shutter fits perfectly in your bathroom. 

We look forward to seeing your next project.

Eric

[Dave-1]

Good afternoon @JamesG 

That has come up really nicely! And love how it went from a question to actually seeing the solution Did you put a timber frame around the edge? I was looking at the before photos and the after ones, I was thinking of a timber inset when I saw the first part

Dave

[JamesG]

Hey Dave. No timber inset, it was a tiled window frame. The plantation shutter itself has a kind of frame, then doors inset to that.

FWIW I bought the shutters from iseekblinds.com.au and were very happy with their customer service and end product

[JamesG]

Next project coming up @EricL  Any advice welcome again!