Adhesives, Underlayments & Compounds
Trowel notch sizing, adhesive open times, floor scrapers, grinders, patching compounds, and nailers.
- Match adhesive types to flooring products and substrates
- Explain trowel notch sizing and its effect on adhesive coverage
- Identify floor preparation tools including scrapers, grinders, and saws
- Describe patching, screeding, and self-leveling compound applications
- Explain pneumatic nailer operation and safety requirements
Leçon 1
Adhesive Types & Trowel Notch Sizing
Adhesive Categories
Flooring adhesives are formulated for specific materials and substrates. Using the wrong adhesive causes bond failure, flooring damage, or warranty voidance.
Water-Based Adhesives
VOCs: Low - better indoor air quality
Cleanup: Water while wet
Open time: Longer - more forgiving
Best for: VCT, carpet, cork
Solvent-Based Adhesives
VOCs: High - ventilation required
Cleanup: Solvent required
Open time: Shorter - faster cure
Best for: Rubber flooring, specialty applications
Trowel Notch Sizing
The trowel notch controls how much adhesive is applied. The notch size is specified by the adhesive and flooring manufacturer. Using the wrong notch size causes:
- Too small - insufficient adhesive, bond failure
- Too large - excess adhesive, oozing through joints, telegraphing through vinyl
| Notch Size | Adhesive Spread Rate | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1/16" x 1/16" V-notch | Light spread | Vinyl tile, cove base |
| 1/16" x 1/32" x 1/16" | Medium spread | Sheet vinyl |
| 1/4" x 1/4" square | Heavy spread | Ceramic tile (small) |
| 1/4" x 3/8" square | Very heavy spread | Large format tile |
Follow the Spec
Always use the exact trowel notch specified by the adhesive manufacturer. The notch size is printed on the adhesive bucket. Do not substitute a different notch size based on personal preference.
Trowel notch size controls adhesive spread rate and must match the manufacturer's specification. Too small causes bond failure; too large causes oozing and telegraphing. Always follow the spec on the adhesive bucket.