Trowel Size For Kerdi Pan Installation

When installing Schluter-KERDI, a 1/4 x 3/16 V-notched trowel is recommended. However, Schluter also manufactures its own KERDI-TROWEL, which features a 1/8 x 1/8 square notch. The Schluter-TROWEL is designed to be used with the Schluter Kerdi system, ensuring the right amount of adhesive spread and aiding in strong, durable bonds.

Schluter Kerdi Trowel

The Schluter Kerdi Trowel is a square-notched trowel designed for installing Schluter's Kerdi system. It features a 1/8"x1/8" square-notch design, which ensures the correct amount of adhesive spread for strong, durable bonds. The trowel is also part of Schluter's recommended tools, guaranteeing compatibility and optimal performance with their systems.

The Schluter Kerdi Trowel is constructed for durability and reliability, making it suitable for both professional and home improvement projects. Its ergonomic handle is designed for comfort, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use. The trowel's precision notches make it ideal for accurate adhesive application in various tiling projects.

When installing Schluter-KERDI, it is recommended to use either a 1/4" x 3/16" (6 mm x 5 mm) V-notched trowel or the Schluter-KERDI-TROWEL. The Schluter-KERDI-TROWEL's square-notched design effectively installs KERDI, ensuring proper bonding and coverage.

The Schluter Kerdi Trowel has received positive reviews for its comfort, quality, and ease of use. Customers have mentioned that it feels good in the hand and is well-balanced. The trowel's durability and rust-resistant coating have also been highlighted in reviews. However, opinions are mixed on the value, with some finding it pricey for the brand name.

V-Notch vs U-Notch

When installing Schluter-KERDI, a 1/4" x 3/16" (6 mm x 5 mm) V-notched trowel or the Schluter™-KERDI-TROWEL is recommended.

Now, here's the comparison between V-Notch and U-Notch trowels:

V-notch trowels are best suited for small tiles on smooth surfaces, such as applying tiles smaller than 6" x 6" on drywall. They are also useful for flooring adhesive applications. However, their limitation lies in spreading thinset effectively due to its sand aggregate, and they may not leave enough material for larger tiles or those with textured backs. V-notch trowels are also not suitable for rough materials like cement boards.

On the other hand, U-notch trowels are more versatile. They are ideal for installing tiles with mastic or thinset over rough materials like cement boards. U-notch trowels are also better at spreading thinset due to the shape of the notch, which allows for easier passage of the material. Additionally, U-notch trowels are suitable for tiles of various sizes, including larger formats. However, a potential drawback is that they can disperse a large amount of material, which may require cleaning excess material from the grout joints.

In summary, while both types of trowels have their advantages, the choice between a V-notch and a U-notch trowel depends on the specific requirements of the tiling project, particularly the tile size and the type of substrate or surface.

Schluter Ditra Trowel

When installing Schluter-DITRA, it is recommended to use a 1/4" x 3/16" (6 mm x 5 mm) V-notched trowel, a 5/16" x 5/16" (8 mm x 8 mm) V-notched trowel, or the Schluter-DITRA trowel, which has an 11/64" x 11/64" (4.5 mm x 4.5 mm) square-notched design. The Schluter-DITRA trowel is designed to effectively install DITRA, ensuring optimal bonding and coverage. It is part of the Schluter-recommended tools, guaranteeing compatibility and superior performance with their systems.

The Schluter-DITRA trowel features a square-notched design, which provides precise adhesive application for various tiling projects. The 11/64" x 11/64" (4.5 mm x 4.5 mm) notch size ensures the correct amount of adhesive is spread, resulting in strong and long-lasting bonds. This trowel is an essential tool for any tiling project, whether undertaken by a professional or a DIY enthusiast.

When using the Schluter-DITRA trowel, it is important to mix your thin-set mortar to a fluid consistency that can still hold a notch. This ensures that the membrane is solidly embedded in the fresh mortar. Additionally, it is recommended to periodically lift a corner of the membrane to check the fleece for full coverage. Following this procedure will help ensure a successful installation.

The Schluter-DITRA trowel is a versatile and durable tool, tailored for sustained performance. Its ergonomic handle is designed for comfort, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use. This makes your tiling work smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you're a professional or a home improvement enthusiast, the Schluter-DITRA trowel is a reliable choice for your tiling projects.

Trowel size for 12 x 12 porcelain tile

When tiling, the size of the notched trowel you use is important as it leaves an even and consistent amount of mortar to set your tiles into. The size of the tile you are using will determine the size of the notched trowel you need.

For 12 x 12 porcelain tiles, a 1/4 inch x 3/8 inch square notch trowel is recommended. This size trowel is also great for installing 13x13s and 16x16s.

A 1/4 inch x 1/4 inch square notch trowel is another option for 12 x 12 porcelain tiles. This is likely the most common size of trowel that tile setters own. This size is used for certain uncoupling membranes, some thicker uncoupling membranes like the uncoupling heat membranes, some mosaic tiles, and certain glass mosaic tiles.

A 1/2 inch x 1/2 inch square notch trowel is used for big tiles, so it can be used for 12 x 12 porcelain tiles. This size is recommended for most tiles that are 16 inches and larger, so it is a good option for 12 x 24 tiles, 16 x 16s, 6 x 24s, 8 x 36s, and wood-look plank tiles.

The Schluter-KERDI system recommends using a 1/4" x 3/16" (6 mm x 5 mm) V-notched trowel or the Schluter™-KERDI-TROWEL.

It is important to note that the size of the trowel is not the only factor in determining the success of your tiling project. The consistency of the thinset matters too. Thinset that is mixed properly goes hand-in-hand with notched trowel selection. Additionally, you should always check your mortar coverage no matter which size trowel you use.

Schluter-KERDI waterproofing

To install Schluter-KERDI, a 1/4" x 3/16" (6 mm x 5 mm) V-notched trowel or the Schluter-KERDI-TROWEL is recommended. The Schluter-KERDI-TROWEL has a 1/8"x1/8" square-notch design, which ensures the right amount of adhesive spread, aiding in strong, durable bonds. The ergonomic handle also enhances comfort and control, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use.

Schluter-KERDI is a waterproofing membrane for tiled shower walls and floors, as well as bathtub surrounds. It is a polyethylene waterproofing membrane and vapor retarder, which helps to prevent water damage and the resulting mould and mildew. The membrane is anchored with fleece on both sides for efficient waterproofing on both walls and floors. It is 8-mil thick and has a water vapour permanence of 0.90 perms.

The KERDI membrane should be installed on the substrate using unmodified thin-set mortar. It is important to allow the membrane to cure and dry before tiling. This drying period ensures that the membrane has adhered securely to the substrate and provides a stable surface for the tile adhesive. Using modified thinset with KERDI is not recommended because it can interfere with the proper installation and performance of the membrane.

Frequently asked questions