1. Product Overview
The MARSHALLTOWN QLT Flat-V Notched Trowel, model NT682, is a professional-grade hand tool designed for efficient application of thin-set, mortar, or adhesive in tiling and flooring installations. It features an 11x4.5 inch steel blade with 3/16x 1/4 x 5/16 inch Flat-V shaped notches, ensuring uniform coverage and strong adhesion for various tile types.
Constructed with an aluminum shank spot-welded to the blade and a curved soft-grip handle, this trowel is built for durability and user comfort. Its robust design ensures longevity, making it suitable for numerous flooring projects.
Image: The MARSHALLTOWN QLT Flat-V Notched Trowel, showcasing its steel blade and ergonomic red and black soft-grip handle.
2. Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when using hand tools and working with construction materials. Adhere to the following guidelines:
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses to protect against splashes and debris, and work gloves to protect hands from abrasive materials and chemicals in adhesives.
- Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS): Consult the MSDS for any thin-set, mortar, or adhesive products you are using. Follow all manufacturer's instructions and safety warnings for these materials.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in your work area, especially when working with chemical-based adhesives or mortars that may release fumes.
- Tool Handling: Handle the trowel with care. The blade edges, while not sharp like a knife, can cause scrapes or minor cuts if mishandled.
- Cleanliness: Keep the work area clean and free of obstructions to prevent trips and falls.
- Storage: Store the trowel in a safe, dry place, away from children and pets, to prevent accidental injury or damage.
3. Setup and Preparation
Proper preparation is crucial for successful tiling and flooring projects. The MARSHALLTOWN QLT Notched Trowel requires no assembly, but the work area and materials must be prepared correctly.
- Surface Preparation: Ensure the substrate (floor or wall) is clean, dry, level, and free of dust, grease, or loose particles. Any imperfections in the surface can affect adhesion and the final appearance of your tiling.
- Material Mixing: Prepare your thin-set mortar or adhesive according to the manufacturer's instructions. Pay close attention to the recommended water-to-mix ratio and mixing time to achieve the correct consistency. The consistency should be smooth and lump-free, suitable for spreading.
- Tool Inspection: Before each use, inspect your trowel for any damage, such as bent notches or a loose handle. A damaged trowel can lead to uneven adhesive application.
- Notch Selection: The 3/16x 1/4 x 5/16 Flat-V notches are suitable for a range of tile sizes and types. Ensure this notch size is appropriate for your specific tile and adhesive requirements. Refer to the adhesive manufacturer's guidelines for recommended notch sizes.
Image: A diagram illustrating various trowel notch shapes and their corresponding dimensions (X, Y, Z), helping users understand notch specifications.
4. Operating Instructions
Using the MARSHALLTOWN QLT Notched Trowel effectively ensures proper adhesive coverage and strong tile bonding.
- Applying Adhesive: Scoop a manageable amount of mixed thin-set or adhesive onto the flat side of the trowel blade.
- Spreading the Base Coat: Apply a thin, even layer of adhesive to the substrate using the flat edge of the trowel. This "skim coat" or "burnishing" layer ensures maximum contact and adhesion.
- Creating Notches: Immediately after applying the skim coat, turn the trowel to its notched side. Hold the trowel at a consistent angle, typically between 45 to 60 degrees, relative to the substrate. Drag the notched edge through the adhesive, creating uniform ridges. The direction of the ridges should generally be parallel to the shortest side of the tile or perpendicular to the direction of tile placement, depending on the specific application and tile size.
- Coverage Area: Spread only enough adhesive that you can cover with tiles within the open time of the adhesive (the time before it starts to skin over). This prevents the adhesive from drying prematurely, which can compromise the bond.
- Back-Butter (Optional but Recommended): For larger tiles (typically 12x12 inches or more) or uneven tiles, apply a thin layer of adhesive to the back of the tile itself using the flat side of the trowel. This is known as "back-buttering" and helps ensure 100% coverage.
- Setting Tiles: Place the tile firmly onto the notched adhesive, pressing down and wiggling slightly to ensure full contact and collapse the ridges.
Image: A person using the MARSHALLTOWN QLT Notched Trowel to apply thin-set mortar to a wall, demonstrating the process of creating uniform ridges for tile installation.
5. Maintenance
Proper maintenance extends the life of your MARSHALLTOWN QLT Notched Trowel and ensures its continued performance.
- Immediate Cleaning: Clean the trowel immediately after each use. Dried thin-set or adhesive is extremely difficult to remove and can damage the notches.
- Cleaning Procedure:
- Scrape off excess material using a putty knife or another tool.
- Rinse the trowel thoroughly with water. For stubborn residue, use a stiff brush or abrasive pad.
- Ensure all notches are clear of debris.
- Drying: After cleaning, dry the trowel completely to prevent rust on the steel blade. A clean cloth or air drying is sufficient.
- Storage: Store the dry trowel in a cool, dry place, preferably hanging or in a tool box, to protect it from moisture and physical damage.
6. Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the trowel itself is a simple tool, issues can arise from improper technique or material handling.
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Uneven Adhesive Ridges | Inconsistent trowel angle or pressure; worn notches; uneven substrate. | Maintain a consistent 45-60 degree angle and even pressure. Inspect notches for wear. Ensure substrate is level. |
| Adhesive Drying Too Quickly | High room temperature; low humidity; spreading too much adhesive at once; adhesive past its open time. | Work in smaller sections. Adjust room conditions if possible. Ensure adhesive is fresh and mixed correctly. |
| Poor Tile Adhesion | Insufficient adhesive coverage; adhesive dried prematurely; dirty substrate; incorrect notch size for tile. | Ensure full coverage by back-buttering if necessary. Work within adhesive open time. Clean substrate thoroughly. Verify notch size suitability. |
7. Specifications
Detailed specifications for the MARSHALLTOWN QLT Flat-V Notched Trowel (Model NT682):
- Model Number: NT682
- Blade Material: Alloy Steel
- Handle Material: Aluminum with Soft Grip
- Notch Type: Flat-V
- Notch Dimensions: 3/16 inch (width) x 1/4 inch (depth) x 5/16 inch (spacing)
- Blade Dimensions: 11 inches (length) x 4.5 inches (width)
- Overall Weight: Approximately 11.2 ounces (0.32 kg)
- Exterior Finish: Aluminum (handle)
- Color: Gray (blade), Red/Black (handle)
- Specific Uses: Construction, Tiling
- Manufacturer: MARSHALLTOWN
- UPC: 035965056823
8. Warranty and Support
MARSHALLTOWN tools are manufactured to high standards of quality and durability. For specific warranty information regarding your QLT Flat-V Notched Trowel (Model NT682), please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official MARSHALLTOWN website. For product support, technical assistance, or inquiries about replacement parts, please contact MARSHALLTOWN customer service directly.
