Installing tile can be a satisfying DIY project. However, choosing the wrong trowel size can lead to headaches down the road if your tiles become loose or crack. Selecting the proper trowel ensures full mortar contact and a long-lasting installation.
Trowel Sizes Explained
Tile trowels feature notches or teeth that grip the mortar to spread it evenly on your surface. Two main trowel types exist:
- Square notch: Teeth form square shapes
- U-notch: Teeth points form a “U” shape
Standard trowel sizes include:
- 1/4″
- 1/2″
- 1/4″ x 3/8″
- 3/8″ x 1/2″
The teeth width indicates maximum tile size, while teeth spacing determines mortar thickness. The notch depth also affects thickness spread.
Mortar Coverage & Tile Adhesion
Selecting an appropriately sized trowel ensures:
- Proper coverage per pass of the trowel
- Consistent mortar depth for full contact with tiles
Optimal coverage and consistency prevents tiles coming loose overtime.
How to Choose the Right Trowel Size
Factor 1: Tile Size
A general guideline is to choose a trowel size that’s about 1/2 the length of your tiles’ longest side. For example:
| Tile Size | Trowel Size |
|---|---|
| 4″ x 4″ | 1/4″ square notch |
| 12″ x 24″ | 1/2″ x 1/4″ V-notch |
Factor 2: Tile Type
Tiles have varying porosity and thickness:
- Porcelain: Dense, low porosity. Requires thin mortar coverage.
- Natural stone: Higher porosity. Needs thicker mortar coverage.
Adjust trowel size to match the tile’s needs.
Factor 3: Tile Thickness
Thicker tiles require a thicker mortar bed for support. Use larger notched trowels like 1/2″ square notch or 1/4″ x 3/8″ square notch.
Factor 4: Surface Material
If working on uneven or highly textured substrates, consider using a larger trowel size to ensure proper adhesive spread.
Trowel Size Recommendations
Use these size guidelines for common tile types:
Small Wall & Ceiling Tiles
Up to 4″ x 4″:
- 3/16″ V-Notch
- 1/4″ Square Notch
Medium Floor & Wall Tiles
4″ x 4″ up to 12″ x 12″:
- 1/4″ Square Notch
- 1/4″ x 3/8″ Square Notch
Large Format Floor Tiles
16″ x 16″ tiles and larger:
- 1/2″ Square Notch
- 3/8″ x 1/2″ Square Notch
Natural Stone Tiles
Marble, granite, etc.:
- 1/4″ x 3/8″ Square Notch
- 3/8″ x 1/2″ Square Notch
Choosing the proper tile trowel size doesn’t have to be guesswork. Consider the key factors of tile size, tile type, thickness, and your substrate surface when selecting a trowel.
Refer to our size chart and recommendations to take the guesswork out of trowel selection. Doing so will help ensure successful thinset application and a long-lasting quality tile installation.
