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What Size Trowel Do I use? - TileTools

A Guide for Choosing the Right Tile Trowel Size

Choosing the Right Tile Trowel Size

Tackling a tile installation project can be daunting, especially for beginners. A key decision in this process is selecting the appropriate trowel size. This guide provides essential information to help you make an informed choice, ensuring your tile installation is successful.

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  1. FAQs on Choosing Tile Trowel Size:

    1. Key Factors in Trowel Size Selection:

    What factors should I consider when choosing a trowel size for tile installation?

    Consider the tile size, type of notch, and the surface for tile placement. Larger tiles require larger notches for adequate mortar coverage.

    2. Importance of Tile Placement:

    How does tile placement impact trowel size selection?

    Tile placement is critical. For floor tiles, a thicker mortar bed is needed compared to wall tiles due to foot traffic.

    3. Trowel Size Guidelines Based on Tile Size and Placement:

    What is the general guide for trowel size based on tile size and placement?

    - 3/16″ to 1/4″ V-notch for mosaic and small glazed wall tiles (up to 4-1/2″).
    - 1/4″ x 1/4″ U or Square notch for medium tiles (4″ to 8″).
    - 1/4″ x 3/8″ U or Square notch for larger tiles (8″ to 16″).
    - 1/2″ x 1/2″ U or Square notch for the largest tiles (16″ and above).

    4. Understanding Notch Types:

    What are the different types of notches and their effects on tile installation?

    V-shape, U-shape, and square-notch are the primary types. V-shape spreads less thinset, U-shape is moderate, and square-notch provides the most coverage, affecting tile adhesion.

    5. Overall Considerations for Successful Tile Installation:

    What should I keep in mind for a successful tile installation?

    Ensure the trowel size matches the tile size, and choose the notch type based on desired thinset concentration. Always consider the tile placement and surface conditions.

    Conclusion:

    Choosing the right trowel size is a vital step in tile installation. This guide aims to simplify the process, providing you with the knowledge needed for optimal tile adhesion and a successful installation.

    To really understand which trowel type to use, and how to properly use it...watch the video below from the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA).

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Comments

Royce Balak - December 21, 2023

Can I use V style trowel on a 12 × 12” sheet of 4” tile that has mesh backing?

Karen Hsieh - December 6, 2023

What size of trowel should I used for tile of 12” x18”

Chris G - May 17, 2023

What size trowl do I use to put 7" by 19" floor tile down on cement board

Edward Ziembroski - February 21, 2023

Thank you for sharing this information. Many instructional videos show the wrong nonlinear way of spreading thinset. The illustration with glass tile and air trapping is very illuminating. I find it helpful to know the right way as well as the reason behind it.

Edward Ziembroski - May 17, 2023

Thank you for sharing this information. Many instructional videos show the wrong nonlinear way of spreading thinset. The illustration with glass tile and air trapping is very illuminating. I find it helpful to know the right way as well as the reason behind it.

Rick Lane - May 17, 2023

What size trowel should I use for a 10"x 12"x 6.35mm ceramic tile?

Michael - March 8, 2023

Thanks Steve. Useful comments, but metric notch alternatives would be helpful.

Dom - May 17, 2023

I’m doing 13c13 tile with 1/16 spacers. Is 1/2 by 1/2 to big?

anil sharaf - March 15, 2023

very useful idea

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