Kinds of
spatulas Before buying a spatula, it's worth knowing that they are all designed for strictly defined jobs. Therefore, we describe the main types of this tool. So, the front, paint, plastic, rubber, corner, notched trowel is selected.
Facade is designed for large areas. Despite the name, it can be successfully applied not only for finishing facades, but also indoors. Spatula paint is well suited for the finishing stages of finishing( sealing cracks and potholes, putty).In some cases, it is used to remove paint, wallpaper, putty.
Rubber spatula is ideal for sealing seams and small cracks( for example, when laying tiles).Plastic is used for smoothing wallpaper. Angle is used for processing internal and external angles. Well, finally, the jagged( or spatula-comb) is used for the application and leveling of certain glue compounds on the surface of the tile. It is also suitable for textured plasters.
How to choose a notched trowel?
As already mentioned, a notched trowel for tiles, decorative stone and some other facing materials is designed. It is necessary for the applied adhesive composition to be uniformly distributed over the surface. That is, the entire thickness of the mixture should be the same. Therefore, depending on the work performed, a different tool is selected. How can you choose it correctly?
- When applying liquid mixtures, use a spatula with triangular teeth.
- When using thick compounds it is better to use a tool with teeth of a rectangular shape.
- When you need to create a very thin layer of glue on the surface, then the best option is a metal or plastic spatula toothed A2 or A1.The fact is that they have a tooth width of only 0.6 and 1.2 mm.
- If there is any doubt about the thickness of the layer, then a universal spatula can be used.
The larger the width of the teeth and the distance between them, the thicker the layer will be.
How to work with a notched trowel?
Before starting work, it is important to prepare the mixture and the appropriate tools. The glue is prepared according to the recipe, which is written on the package. By the way, there is often indicated the recommended size and type of spatula. First, a piece of dissolved glue, sized with a palm, is applied to the surface of the tile. Then distribute the composition by about 2/3 of the length of the tile and the entire width.
Next, the tile needs to be tilted slightly above the mixture pail, take the comb and at a slight angle and with a slight push to draw it over the surface. Thus, a more even layer with the remaining "zigzags" is obtained( for better adhesion to the surface).Remains of the composition are put back into the bucket. On the wall, the glue is applied exactly the same way. First, "pokes" with a shovel, then it is leveled with a notched trowel.
Note! Many shops often offer plastic tools for creating a thin layer. However, some experts say that it is better to use metal with small teeth. The reason is that the plastic can not be slippery enough. Plus, the very shape of the teeth is unstable. Because this can lead to an uneven layer thickness. But to choose you!