Plastering as a trade requires investing in quality tools that will last years of use. The most important tool used in this profession is a trowel. Trowels are versatile and handy and can be used for many things, including gardening. In plastering, however, there are specific types of trowels suited to achieve a certain finish. How does a plasterer choose which trowel is the best?
To say that a specific brand is better than others is a generic parameter. If a certain plasterer prefers a brand like Nela trowels, for example, it is quite subjective to the preference of this person. It is better to consider certain factors that will determine the best trowel for your needs.
Factors to consider before buying a plastering trowel
Whether you are a novice or a professional plasterer, you need to consider the following factors before buying Nela plastering trowels:
- The strength of your plastering arm. Depending on your skills and years of experience in plastering, the strength of your arm may affect how well you are able to manage and control a trowel while applying plaster. If you are a beginner, a small 13-inch Nela trowel should suit you just fine. Experienced plasterers tend to have both big and small trowels for versatility.
- Skill level. Your skill level determines how well you can control a plastering trowel. As much as possible, look for one that is made of lightweight material such as stainless steel. It is easier to carry and you are likely to be able to spend a longer period of time applying without experiencing fatigue.
- The type of surface. Plastering trowels come in different shapes too. Depending on the project and the surface where you need to apply plaster, you may want to purchase several kinds of trowels. For example, a larger Nela plastering trowel is not suitable for hard to reach areas. Invest in a variety of trowels so that you can achieve better plastering results.
- How often it will be used. This is perhaps a major consideration especially if you are buying a trowel for a DIY project only. There is a chance you might end up storing the tool and never use it again. If this is the case, buy a trowel made from non-tarnish material. This will ensure that it will not get rusty even after years in storage. If you are a professional plasterer who will be using a trowel often, there are a variety of choices available such as cast-iron trowels which perform better but will need constant maintenance.
Overall, choosing a trowel will greatly depend on your experience and the type of project it will be used for. There are a lot of online plastering tools suppliers that can give you a variety of options. Luckily, with the number of choices available, it will not be difficult for you to find the right one. Another tip for finding the perfect trowel is to read reviews and recommendations from other expert plasterers who are more than willing to offer their advice online.