I need to drill a hole in 9 glass blocks (to feed lights into for wedding). Who could I call to get this done?

Question

All we need is a small hole the size of a fingertip in each block to feed a small string of white lights into. I have attempted to do this, but have not been very successful. The right person with the right tool could do this in a matter of 2-5 minutes. I live in Richmond, VA and need to get these ASAP. PLEASE HELP!

Answer 1

I have a couple of questions, but it may be a moot point.

Are these the kind of blocks such as are used as privacy type window, light entry things?

Do they exist already or do you have to purchase and set up?

If number 1 is correct and number 2's answer is NO I have to get them, then I suggest that the same thing can be purchased in an acrylic form, looks the same, and can be drilled with normal drill bits.

Drilling in glass is possible certainly, but the effort might be prohibitively expensive, iffy in the fact that some may be damaged, and I have another Q. Is it not possible to compromise somewhat and fix the lighting to the side of the block that won't be publically viewed?

I mean,,, I get it, with regard to the theatrical effect, but it won't hopefully make or break the ceremony to alter the plan somewhat.

Rev. Steven

Answer 2

All you need to drill glass blocks is a diamond or ceramic bit. A drill press is nice, but you can do this with a hand drill, I know from experience. Don't let where you are drilling get too hot, or the glass will crack... take it slow and easy.

You can buy a ceramic or diamond drill bit from your local hardware store, or glass specialty shops. This same kind of bit is used to drill ceramic tile, so anyone who carries tile products will likely, also have this type of bit.

If you are really set on finding someone else to do this for you, then look for a local handyman, tile installer, or possibly even a plumber. Oh, and expect it to take more than 5 minutes a block... too fast, and you will only prematurely wear out the bit, or break the block ;)

Good Luck!

Answer 3

You should be able to find a waterjet or abrasivejet cutting service in your area. It would be fast and relatively inexpensive. Most charge between 100-150$ an hour for cutting but hollow or solid glass block wouldnt take more than a few seconds to start and cut a hole in each side, whatever side, whatever dimension. www.wjta.org may get you started for one in your area or just Type in 'waterjet Richmond, Va' in yahoo. Look for CNC shops or anyplace that can cut stone or metal, they can usually quickly set up a template for cutting glass if they have those systems.
FLOW, JET-EDGE, OMAX, WSI are the big makers of waterjet systems, you can type those in along with 'richmond' as well.
I found this site in north Richmond, (Ashland?) they may be the only place this option provides. But it looks like they have what you need.
http://www.machinespec.com/index.htm

Answer 4

Call the local glass company. If they can't do it, they'll know a contractor who can.

Answer 5

you might want to see if theres an stained glass people near you, they might be able to do it

Answer 6

glass company, jewelers or tile people