Plaster is important in attaining the structural integrity of any building. There are different types of plaster material used in construction. But in any plastering job, a plasterer has to rely on a proper set of tools to achieve a good finish. Professional plasterers have different opinions on what characterises a good plastering trowel. In any case, there are basic considerations when choosing one trowel over another.
Beginners often contemplate the option of buying a plastering trowel directly from the shelf of any hardware store. The trouble with buying a generic trowel is that there is no guarantee you will achieve the right quality of finish. Generic trowels will not withstand regular wear and tear and will also be prone to warping after several uses. If you are serious about taking on plastering as a tradesman, here are a few things you must consider.
The size of the trowel
Plasterers rely on two sizes of trowels for most plastering jobs. The smaller 11-inch trowel is easier to control and is perfect for beginners and DIY plasterers. Bigger plastering trowels that are 13 inches or longer cover a larger surface area and increase the speed and efficiency of the application. It is recommended that a plasterer should own one of each size for versatility. Nela trowels come in both sizes and are fabricated from a material that withstands warping.
The frequency of use
Beginners hesitate to invest in pricier trowel brands thinking that they will not use it often enough to justify the cost. Although the frequency of use is an important consideration, it is still not cost-effective to buy cheap trowels that will not result in a good finish. There are affordable Nela plastering trowels online that will not cost as much but guarantee good quality.
Blade material
Plasterers have different opinions on which material makes the best trowel. Some plasterers prefer a carbon steel Nela plastering trowel because it lends a better finish and does not warp over time. On the other hand, some would recommend that stainless steel is a better option because it requires virtually no maintenance. Some trowel manufacturers have come up with trowels that do not flex and warp after several uses while maintaining rust-proof quality and lightness.
DIY or professional
Another point to consider is whether the trowel is intended for a DIY project or professional use. Professional plasterers need to invest in the best quality trowels available in the market to ensure durability and quality. For DIY projects, you can buy less expensive trowels that are still of good quality. You can even purchase pre-worn trowels online that adhere better to plaster material and are easier to control.
When you buy your trowel online, you can also get a better deal than buying from a hardware store. Online suppliers usually have a larger inventory and you can shop for a specific make and model anytime. Another advantage of shopping online for plastering tools is that you can take the time to read user reviews and recommendations from professionals.