I have a project coming up to install hurricane panels over all my windows. This will include top and bottom tracks of each opening.

The top track is a h header and the bottom track is a 6" separation studded angle. Both aluminum.





Code requires the tracks be mounted by hammer set nails or Tapcon screws every 18" (or less) along the tracks. These holes are not predrilled.

With all 23 openings, each opening with two tracks, we are talking about about needing to drill 250 holes on these aluminum tracks. For 1/4" tapcon screws the holes will need to be 3/16".

What is the best way to pre-drill 250 holes?

Is there a super quick drill bit for aluminum?

Will a metal hole puncher make the job easier and faster?

 

I'd want to use a drill press.

 

a drill press will be difficult to stabilize with tracks that are 82" - 120" long, unless I build some sort of a table to feed and slide the pieces.

 

That's what I have on my drill press. A large feed table with an adjustable back fence.

At any rate, they do make adjustable height roller stands, you know.