Thorough planning ensures accurate holes, faster completion, and fewer surprises. Define specifications, mark locations precisely, scan for hazards, and prepare access to keep drilling safe, compliant, and aligned with downstream trades’ installation requirements.
Steps to Plan Successfully
1. Define hole specs
List diameters, depths, tolerances, and sleeve requirements by application—plumbing, electrical conduits, HVAC, anchors. Correct specifications ensure first-time fit, proper sealing, and compliance with relevant standards and manufacturer guidelines.
2. Mark exact locations
Measure from fixed references like walls or gridlines. Mark centres and orientations clearly. Add notes for falls, offsets, or angles. Photos of markings help crews validate location and prevent misinterpretations on busy or complex sites.
3. Scan for services and steel
Use drawings and GPR or concrete scanners to locate rebar, post-tension strands, pipes, and conduits. Identifying hazards early prevents strikes, delays, and safety incidents, while guiding bit selection and drilling technique for the material encountered.
4. Prepare site access
Clear pathways, protect finishes, and secure parking/loading areas. Confirm door widths, lift capacities, and stair access for rigs. Ensure water and power availability or request alternatives. Good logistics reduce setup time and keep drilling on schedule.
5. Align stakeholders
Share a drilling layout with builders, plumbers, and electricians. Confirm sequencing and time windows. Alignment avoids clashes with other trades, prevents relocations, and streamlines handovers for immediate installation after coring is complete.
Pro Tip
Provide a marked-up plan PDF and labelled photos before scheduling. Clarity upfront reduces questions, accelerates approvals, and avoids costly redrilling.