How to choose a tile comb?

If you decide to decorate the floor with beautiful tiles, then you need a comb. Simply put, you need a spatula to work, but not a simple one, but a notched one. High-quality tile is a durable material that will delight you with its ideal look for more than one year, therefore the installation itself is very important so that the finish does not deform or peel off over time.

Repair in rooms such as a bathroom, kitchen or balcony is rarely done, so it is important to carefully approach the choice of material for decoration. It will not work to change the tiles annually (as we change the wallpaper), so everything needs to be done efficiently and reliably.

Many people believe that a notched trowel or comb are not the most important elements in facing work, that glue can be applied with an ordinary tool, because there is no fundamental difference. But here you can argue, since the quality of the work performed will be very different. Experts recommend not to skimp and choose the right tool.

Combs differ in shape and materials from which they are made.

• As a rule, a high-quality tool is made of stainless steel, due to which it does not deform during work, does not deteriorate over time, and also allows high-quality application of the composition to the tile itself.
• Very often you can find a plastic tool. Of course, it costs several times cheaper, but it also breaks down very quickly. After a small amount of work, you will notice that there are simply not enough teeth on it, as they wear off very quickly. In addition, such a tool can easily break in the middle of the workflow.

Combs for laying tiles are different. So what should you pay attention to when buying so that the tool does not let you down during operation?

In order to be able to lay tiles with high quality, it is imperative to take into account the size of the tool and the shape of its teeth:

• A square-toothed product is typically used to apply the mix at a thickness of 5 to 10 mm.
• Semicircular teeth are perfect for working with mixtures that have a synthetic composition. In addition, they can be used to better distribute the adhesive. It is best to apply the compound with a thickness of more than 12 mm with a tool with semicircular teeth.

• In stores, there are also specimens with triangular teeth. This type of comb is perfect for working with very liquid mixtures. It can also be used if it is necessary to apply a layer of no more than 5 mm. Due to its triangular shape, this type of tool perfectly distributes the liquid mixture over the surface.
• There are also universal trowels on sale that are suitable for both standard tiles and mosaics, therefore, before paying attention to the shape of the teeth and choosing the right tool, you must know exactly the size and thickness of the tile that you are going to use for finishing work.

• Consider one more important fact: the width of the tool itself must correspond to the width of the tiles or be slightly larger, otherwise there will be difficulties with installation.
• It is important to pay attention to the size of the teeth. If this parameter is less than a millimeter (0.6-1.2 mm), then this option is perfect for applying a very thin layer of the mixture.
• The 0.3mm size is ideal for mosaic work.
• For the installation of various types of ceramics, a size of 0.4 mm is required.
• Teeth with a size of 6 mm will perfectly help when installing larger tiles, wall laying.
• To install large floor tiles (over 12 mm thick), you need a comb with teeth of at least 10 mm.

If you choose a tool exclusively for applying glue, be sure to read the instructions on the package. As a rule, manufacturers give clear recommendations on the selection of construction equipment. The size of the comb and its features will certainly be indicated on the package, which will facilitate the selection process.

Before deciding on a particular instrument, be sure to hold it in your hands to make sure that it is comfortable and that the handle is comfortable and secure. Professionals prefer lacquered holders - they are practical, do not slip, do not leave splinters.

If you have already chosen tiles, glue and even the necessary tool, then it's time to learn about the intricacies of applying the mixture.

Before proceeding with the installation itself, you need to prepare everything. The surface must be ready for use. The wall or floor covering must be completely cleaned of small and large debris, dust particles and other defects, otherwise this places an ideal installation.

Next, you need to prepare the glue itself. If this is a dry mixture, then dilute it, taking into account all the recommendations indicated by the manufacturers on the packaging. Be sure to make sure that there are no lumps, otherwise such a composition will spoil the quality of the installation, and the tile will not last as long as you would like it.

Apply a small amount of the mixture to the back of the tile, then gently (using a tool) evenly distribute the adhesive over the entire surface of the base.

Then run the comb along the base. This should be done with slight pressure, due to which stripes and zigzags will be formed on the surface. This is necessary in order for a better adhesion of materials to occur, due to which the tile will adhere more firmly to the wall or floor. Excess glue, which usually remains on the tool, can be put back into the container with the total weight.

After these steps, using a special working tool, you should carefully apply the mixture to the surface of the wall or floor, evenly distribute, and then gently press the tiles. Until the finish is completely solidified, you can correct the evenness of the laying. Once you have pressed the tile to the base, you need to tap it with a special rubber mallet, which will help to evenly distribute the glue and strengthen the product.

For information on how to choose a tile comb, see the next video.