Choosing the right trowel is just as important as choosing the right tile. The wrong trowel can lead to poor adhesive coverage, loose tiles, and long-term installation failures.
This guide explains the different types of tile trowels, how they work, and how to choose the best one for your tile project.
Why the Right Trowel Matters
A tile trowel controls how much adhesive is applied and how evenly it spreads beneath the tile. Proper coverage ensures:
- Strong tile bonding
- Even tile height
- Fewer hollow spots
- Long-lasting results
Using the wrong trowel size or shape is one of the most common mistakes DIYers make.
Common Mistakes When Installing Tile (And How to Avoid Them)
Types of Trowels Used for Tile Installation
Square-Notch Trowels
Square-notch trowels are the most commonly used option for tile installation.
Best for:
- Floor tiles
- Medium to large tiles
- Porcelain and ceramic tile
They provide consistent adhesive ridges and excellent coverage when tiles are pressed into place.
U-Notch Trowels
U-notch trowels create rounded ridges that compress more easily under tile.
Best for:
- Wall tiles
- Smaller tiles
- Mosaic sheets
They are forgiving for beginners and help reduce excess adhesive squeeze-out.
V-Notch Trowels
V-notch trowels apply a thinner layer of adhesive.
Best for:
- Thin wall tiles
- Glass tile
- Backsplashes
They are not suitable for floor tiles or heavy materials.
Common Trowel Sizes Explained
Trowel size is measured by the width and depth of the notches. Larger tiles require larger notches to ensure proper coverage.
| Tile Size | Recommended Trowel |
|---|---|
| Small wall tile | 3/16″ V-notch |
| Standard wall tile | 1/4″ x 1/4″ square |
| Floor tile | 1/4″ x 3/8″ square |
| Large format tile | 1/2″ square |
If coverage is insufficient, stepping up one size is better than risking tile failure.
What Size Trowel Should You Use for Tile?
Floor vs Wall Trowels
Floor Tile Trowels
- Larger notches
- Thicker adhesive layer
- Designed to support weight and traffic
Wall Tile Trowels
- Smaller notches
- Easier to control
- Reduce tile slippage
Using a wall trowel on floor tile often results in poor adhesion.
Back-Buttering: When It’s Necessary
For large-format tiles, spreading adhesive only on the floor may not be enough. Back-buttering involves applying a thin layer of adhesive directly to the back of the tile.
This technique:
- Improves bonding strength
- Reduces hollow spots
- Is strongly recommended for tiles over 12 inches
Beginner Tips for Using a Tile Trowel
- Hold the trowel at a consistent 45-degree angle
- Comb adhesive in one direction only
- Do not swirl adhesive patterns
- Set tiles while adhesive is still fresh
Taking time during this step prevents costly repairs later.
How to Lay Tile for Beginners (Step-by-Step)
Conclusion
The best trowel for tile installation depends on tile size, material, and installation surface. Square-notch trowels are best for floors and large tiles, while V-notch and U-notch trowels work better for walls and backsplashes.
Choosing the correct trowel ensures strong adhesion, even tile placement, and professional-quality results—even for DIY projects.