FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do you have questions about notched trowels? Below you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about notch sizes, materials, and the correct application of tile adhesive.
- Which size of notched trowel should I choose?
The size of the notched trowel determines how much adhesive you can apply in a single motion and how comfortably you can work. For standard tiling jobs, notched trowels of approximately 20 to 28 cm are usually used. These are ideal for small to medium-sized wall and floor tiles and offer good control, even in smaller spaces.
For large-format tiles and larger surfaces, an extra-wide notched trowel of 40 to 60 cm is often chosen. Thanks to the larger size, you can spread more adhesive evenly, which not only works faster, but also helps to achieve optimal adhesive coverage. This is especially important with large-format tiles, where even adhesive distribution is essential to prevent hollow spaces and insufficient
adhesion.
Therefore, choose a notched trowel that suits both the tile size and the scale of the project. - Which notch size should I choose?
The right notch size for the trowel depends on the size of the tile. A larger tile generally requires a larger notch size to guarantee sufficient adhesive coverage and a strong bond.
Tile size Recommended notch size Up to 10 x 10 cm 3 – 4 mm 10 x 10 cm to 30 x 30 cm 6 mm 30 x 30 cm to 60 x 60 cm 8 mm 60 x 60 cm and larger 10 – 15 mm For large-format tiles, back-buttering (double gluing) is often recommended as well. This involves applying adhesive to both the substrate and the back of the tile. This ensures optimal adhesive coverage and reduces the risk of hollow spaces under the tile.
Keep in mind that the ideal notch size can also depend on the flatness of the substrate, the type of tile, and the specifications of the tile adhesive manufacturer. Always check the technical guidelines of the adhesive being used.
- Should I choose a stainless steel or steel notched trowel?
Both stainless steel and steel notched trowels ensure accurate distribution of tile adhesive. The difference lies mainly in durability and maintenance.
Stainless steel is resistant to rust and therefore particularly suitable for intensive and professional use. Thanks to its smooth surface, a stainless steel notched trowel is easy to clean and retains its quality longer, even with frequent use.
Steel notched trowels are an economical choice for smaller projects and occasional use. They offer the same functionality, but require more maintenance to prevent rust formation. After use, it is important to clean the trowel thoroughly and store it dry.
For regular use or professional tiling work, a stainless steel notched trowel is usually preferred due to its longer lifespan and lower maintenance. For sporadic tiling jobs, a steel notched trowel can be a great and budget-friendly alternative.