How to Maintain Your Drill Bits

How to Maintain Your Drill Bits

Save time, money, and hassle on site with these simple maintenance tips.

Construction costs are rising—fast. According to the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS), UK contractors can expect a 17% increase in costs by 2030.* In a climate like this, every piece of kit on site needs to deliver value for money. That includes your drill bits.

Too often, worn or damaged bits are overlooked. But dull, chipped or rusty bits don’t just slow you down—they can compromise safety and the quality of your work.

The good news? With a little care, you can significantly extend the life of your drill bits. Here’s how.

1. Keep Them Clean

Regular cleaning is the easiest way to prevent premature wear.

After each use:

• Brush off any dust or debris.

• Wipe them down with a cloth.

• For stubborn dirt, use a cleaning fluid and give them a thorough scrub.

Most importantly—make sure your bits are completely dry before storing. Moisture leads to rust, which reduces performance and lifespan.

2. Use the Right Bit for the Job

Not all drill bits are created equal.

Every bit is designed for a specific material—be it concrete, metal, or wood. Using the wrong bit can lead to overheating, dull edges, or even breakage. It also makes your drill work harder, wearing both the bit and the tool out faster.

Before you start a job, check that your bit is fit for purpose. It’ll save you time and money in the long run.

3. Invest in Quality – and a Warranty

Even with good care, drill bits don’t last forever. But that doesn’t mean every replacement needs to come out of your pocket.

Choose a brand that backs its quality. For example, Hilti drill bits come with a 20-year material and workmanship warranty, and many also include a two-year wear and tear warranty.

If your drill bit still shows the wear mark—like on our TE-YX (SDS Max) Metric Hammer Drill Bit—it may be eligible for replacement under warranty. That’s extra peace of mind, and more value from every purchase.

👉 Explore our full range of drill bits for metal, wood, and more here

*https://bcis.co.uk/news/bcis-construction-industry-forecast/