Tips for choosing a metal spatula

The metal trowel has found its application in the construction industry: it is used for laying a leveling layer of plaster, applying textured mortars and adhesives. This tool is made from a wide variety of materials. The metal version is considered the most practical and reliable.

The most widespread when performing repair and finishing works are metal spatulas. They are used with a variety of types of building mixtures: with tile adhesive, putty, decorative plaster. With the help of such a tool, you can quickly and easily perform rough finishing and finishing leveling of planes.

The trowel blade is made of sheet metal and has a trapezoidal shape. It is fixed to a wooden, rubber or plastic handle. The most widespread are models made of stainless steel or special springy steel, which ensures maximum ease of use of this type of facing tools.

Many unscrupulous manufacturers use carbon steel with spraying to make fixtures, giving it an external resemblance to stainless steel. During operation, the sprayed layer begins to gradually collapse, and this leads to oxidation of the metal and the beginning of its corrosion. A layer of greasy grease should alert you: it is with it that cheap metal is covered to preserve its appearance. Such coverage immediately indicates a fake.

The metal spatula is in demand when performing various operations. Each of them requires a different type of tool. Some products are optimal for sealing the joints of panel cladding materials, others are needed for leveling wall surfaces and ceilings indoors and on the facades of a building, while others are relevant when applying glue under tiles and other decorative materials. To facilitate the cladding, the master repairman should know all the basic characteristics of the selection of this finishing tool.

Metal spatulas can vary in size. The length depends on the characteristics of the work and is selected separately each time. An elongated spatula, as well as an overly short one, is unlikely to be a good choice. When filling surfaces, the elongated blade begins to bend and deteriorate the quality of the finish.

Universal width for interior facing works - 100-150 mm, for exterior finishing - 300-400 mm. Narrow products (up to 10 mm) are relevant when decorating hard-to-reach areas. It is unlikely that it will be possible to completely level the surface with such a tool, since it repeats all the unevenness of the walls.

Models up to 350 mm effectively level compact surfaces. Align walls with significant curvature, as well as eliminate large-scale and rough defects, allow tools with a width of more than 300 mm. Using products with a width of 600 mm, you can perform initial wall finishing with a rough rough layer.

Tip: if you do not have much experience in finishing, then choose for yourself a double-sided mixed-size model or a set of 3-4 tools of different types.

Among the variety of the range of metal spatulas for cladding walls and facades, the following products stand out.

• Unprofessional. Craftsmen sometimes call them disposable. By their appearance, they resemble a thin plate (less than 0.5 mm thick) attached to a plastic handle.
• Professional. The build plate is 1 mm thick. The canvas does not bend under intense pressure.

In general, the steel tool provides a comfortable environment for facing work. However, special requirements are imposed on the quality of such products.

• The working plate is made of stainless steel. It should be easy to clean with water. Such metal is durable and resistant to abrasion. When pressed, the working blade quickly returns to its original position. If the product is chrome-plated or shiny, most likely, it is threatened with premature corrosion and rust.
• The edge of the metal tool should be aligned. If there are any irregularities, you must immediately abandon the purchase.
• The spatula should fit comfortably in the palms of your hands, not slip or cause excessive muscle tension.
• Special attention should be paid to the handle: it can be silicone, plastic or wooden. The choice must be made, focusing solely on your own feelings and an adequate ratio of cost and quality. There is no need to overpay for the brand.

Nowadays, shops offer a wide range of metal spatula manufacturers. Products of European brands Matrix, Homa, as well as Santoo and Eurotex are in the greatest demand. Among Russian enterprises, in the opinion of consumers, the products of the Zubr firms have proven themselves better than the rest. All these manufacturers give a long-term warranty for their products, which indicates the exceptional quality of the tools, practicality and convenience in working with them.

Metal models of spatulas have found their application in various areas of decoration. So, the following product options can be distinguished.

• Painting. Suitable for finishing ceilings and walls. With the help of this device, the leveling of defects in the rough coating, the elimination of dents, chips and cracks, as well as the masking of the seams are carried out.
• Facade. Relevant when organizing facade work. Thanks to its impressive dimensions, it allows you to quickly process large areas.
• Angular. Allows to finish external and internal corners of buildings.
• Scraper. Indispensable when dismantling. Effectively removes old oil paint, tile glue and wallpaper residues.
• Serrated. Found its use when applying adhesive under tiles.
• Figured. Provides relief and interesting texture to a clean finish.