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

One of the most crucial aspects of tile installation is choosing the right trowel size. Various factors such as the shapes and sizes of the trowels, the types of notches, and the tile size and placement should be considered.

What is the importance of the tile placement in selecting the trowel size?

Tile placement significantly affects the trowel size selection. For instance, if you're laying tiles on the floor, the mortar bed needs to be thicker to withstand foot traffic. Likewise, if the surface you're laying tiles on slopes a bit, you would need to back-butter or spread out your mud-bed slightly thicker.

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

Here is a general guide to the size of trowel to use based on the tile size and placement: 3/16″ to 1/4″ V-notch: Mosaics tiles up to 4-1/2″ glazed wall tile. 1/4″ x 1/4″ U or Square notch: 4″ to 8″ tile. 1/4″ x 3/8″ U or Square notch: 8″ to 16″ tiles. 1/2″ x 1/2″ U or Square notch: 16″ and larger.

What are the different types of notches, and how do they affect tile installation?

There are three primary types of notches - V-shape, U-shape, and square-notch. V-shape spreads less thinset than the same-sized square-notch, while the U-notch spreads out more than the v-notch but less than the square-notch. The major difference is how the thinset lies, affecting tile adhesion. Choosing the right trowel size is crucial for successful tile installation. The trowel size should match the tile size, and the type of notch you use will affect the concentration level of thinset. Also, consider the placement of the tiles and the surface you'll be laying them on to determine the appropriate trowel size.

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

To really understand which trowel type to use, and how to properly use it, watch the video provided. Keep in mind that choosing the right trowel size is crucial for a successful tile installation. The trowel size should match the tile size, and the type of notch you use will affect the concentration level of thinset. Also, consider the placement of the tiles and the surface you'll be laying them on to determine the appropriate trowel size.

Ardex 8+9 Rapid Waterproofing and Crack Isolation Compound

SKU

by Ardex

$111.11 - $117.69

$111.11

$111.11 - $117.69

$111.11

Quantity

Ardex Gray Rapid Waterproofing and Crack Isolation Compound

ARDEX 8+9™ Rapid Waterproofing and Crack Isolation Compound is a best-in-class solution designed to protect floors and walls from water damage. This two-component, solvent-free cement-based membrane consists of an acrylic-based liquid compound and a Portland and other hydraulic cement-based powder. With its easy application using a roller or paintbrush, it creates a highly flexible and waterproof coating that offers excellent bonding for ARDEX tile and stone mortars.

Features

Rapid setting, allowing for tiling in as little as 90 minutes
Can undergo a flood test in just 4 hours
Provides crack isolation up to 1/8" (3 mm)
Excellent coverage with up to 300 sq. ft. for commercial units and up to 100 sq. ft. for convenient kits
Available in Gray or White options to suit different preferences
Ideal for applications in commercial and residential bathrooms, showers, and kitchens prior to tile and stone installation
Can be used for interior or exterior floors and walls
Easy application with a roller or paintbrush
A solvent-free blend of Portland cement and other hydraulic cement, ensuring a strong bond with ARDEX tile and stone mortars
Helps prevent efflorescence from the substrate
Can be used as an alternative to a shower pan liner
Available in GRAY and WHITE

Instructions

Before application, ensure the substrate is solid, clean, dry, and free from oils, grease, wax, latex compounds, curing compounds, dust, and any foreign matter. Avoid installing below a surface temperature of 50°F (10°C).

MIX 1

Mixing Ratio for Paintable Consistency: 1 gallon (3.78 L) of ARDEX 8 per 9 lb. (4 kg) of ARDEX 9 *For small batches, mix 1 part ARDEX 8 to 1 part ARDEX 9 by volume

MIX 2

2/3 gallon (2.5 L) of ARDEX 8 per 9 lb. (4 kg) of ARDEX 9 *For small batches, mix 2/3 part ARDEX 8 to 1 part ARDEX 9 by volume

Coverage:

100 sq. ft. (2 coats) over drywall *Approximately 70 sq. ft. (2 coats) over concrete

Performance:

Pot Life: Up to 45 minutes

Drying Time: 30-45 minutes for the initial coat, approximately 60 minutes for the final coat

Flood Test: Begin 4 hours after the second coat has been applied VOC: 0

Storage: Store in a cool, dry area. Protect packages from sun exposure and liquid from freezing.

Shelf Life: 1 year

Warranty: ARDEX L.P. Standard Limited Warranty applies

ARDEX 8+9™ Rapid Waterproofing and Crack Isolation Compound is the ideal choice for commercial or residential showers, bathrooms, and kitchens. Its exceptional performance, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness make it a superior solution for protecting surfaces from water infiltration.

Ardex 8+9 Rapid Waterproofing and Crack Isolation Compound

Ardex Gray Rapid Waterproofing and Crack Isolation Compound

Features

Instructions

MIX 1

MIX 2

Questions & Answers

Have a Question?

Added to your cart: