In this paper, the machining parameters on the epoxy based glass fiber reinforced composite laminate was studied through the mechanical drilling operation. In this approach, the speed and depth of the cut was varied in a controlled manner and the surface roughness was recorded. The test coupons were further exposed to steam bath for the period of 120 min and the surface roughness values were recorded. The arithmetic average of the absolute value of surface roughness values under microscopic observation clearly shows that, higher spindle speed gives a poor surface finish where as the low speed gives a good surface finish. It was interesting to note that the surface roughness values reduced due to the steam bath.