Maya Ellison
Plastic plastering trowels have gained popularity in the plastering industry, with many plasterers making the switch from metal trowels. Plastic trowels are known for their lightweight design, making them easier to handle and reducing fatigue during prolonged use. They are also flexible, allowing for a smooth finish and easy application. However, they are more susceptible to damage and may not be suitable for all plastering tasks. Metal trowels, on the other hand, are traditionally made from stainless steel, offering durability, strength, and consistency. When choosing the best plastering trowel, factors such as size, weight, flexibility, and personal preference should be considered to ensure a smooth finish and efficient plastering process.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Plastic trowels are specifically designed for skimming and finishing work, not for laying on plaster. |
| Ease of use | Plastic trowels are lighter, more flexible, and easier on the body than metal trowels, reducing fatigue and affecting plastering quality. |
| Durability | Plastic trowels are more susceptible to damage than metal trowels, especially when going over beads. |
| Maintenance | Plastic trowels require less maintenance than metal trowels and do not rust. |
| Size | Smaller trowels offer more control and are recommended for beginners, while larger trowels are better for covering larger areas quickly. |
| Shape | Rounded corners are preferable to avoid marking wet plaster. |
| Blade | Thinner, flexible blades make finishing work easier and smoother. Pre-worn blades can remove manufacturing imperfections. |
| Grip | A soft grip handle improves comfort and grip during prolonged use. |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic plastering trowels are lightweight and flexible
While plastic plastering trowels offer these advantages, they are not meant to replace stainless steel trowels entirely. Stainless steel trowels are still considered superior for applying the initial coats of plaster. Plastic trowels are specifically designed for finishing work, providing an exceptional top-quality finish without leaving metal marks or creating unwanted sheen. Their flexibility also makes them ideal for achieving smooth curves and swoops in the plaster.
The market offers a wide range of plastic trowels, including the well-known K brand and premium options like REFINA's PLAZIFLEX range. The PLAZIFLEX trowels feature a flex-back design, combining blade flexibility with rigidity, making them versatile and suitable for various plastering tasks. They are also known for their lightweight and ergonomic design, reducing wrist and arm fatigue during extended use.
When choosing a plastic plastering trowel, it is important to consider the size and type of trowel that best suits your needs. For beginners, a smaller 11-inch trowel is often recommended for easier control. Additionally, the flexibility of the trowel blade is crucial, with thinner blades facilitating smoother finishing. While plastic trowels offer many benefits, it is worth noting that they are more susceptible to damage during use due to their less sturdy material.
Overall, plastic plastering trowels have revolutionized the construction industry by providing a lightweight and flexible alternative to traditional metal trowels. They are particularly advantageous for achieving high-quality finishes with reduced physical strain on the user, making them a valuable addition to any plasterer's toolkit.
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They are ideal for skimming and finishing work
Plastic plastering trowels are ideal for skimming and finishing work. They are flexible, lightweight, and easy to handle, making them a popular choice for plasterers looking for tools that are gentler on their bodies.
While stainless steel trowels remain the best tool for installing the first few coats of plaster, plastic trowels excel in the finishing stages. Their flexible blades make the finishing process smoother and easier, resulting in a better finish. The 16" Refina Plaziflex Trowel, for example, is praised for its lightweight design and replaceable blades, which provide both rigidity and flexibility. Its 'flex-back' design allows it to glide across walls smoothly without causing strain on the user's joints and arms.
The lightweight nature of plastic trowels is a significant advantage, especially when compared to the heavier metal trowels. Plastering for extended periods with a metal trowel can be more strenuous due to its weight. Plastic trowels reduce fatigue and make the plastering process more comfortable. Additionally, plastic trowels are designed to provide an exceptional finish. They are known for producing walls with a consistent colour and no watermarks, resulting in a high-quality outcome.
However, it is important to note that plastic trowels are not meant to replace metal trowels entirely. Plastic trowels are more susceptible to damage due to their less sturdy construction. They are not suitable for applying or flattening plaster but are specifically designed for skimming and finishing. As such, it is recommended to have a standard plastering trowel, such as a stainless steel trowel, along with a flexible plastic finishing trowel to achieve the best results.
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Metal trowels are more reliable and consistent
Metal trowels are heavier than plastic trowels, which can impact your ability to plaster a wall efficiently and effectively. For example, plastering for 3-4 hours with a metal trowel will be more strenuous than with a plastic trowel. However, metal trowels are extremely reliable and consistent for plastering and have been for decades. Metal trowels are strong, consistent, and long-lasting. They are susceptible to damage and require more maintenance, but with proper care, they can last for years.
Plastic trowels are lightweight and flexible, making them ideal for those looking for a tool that is easier on the body when plastering. They are specifically designed to give an amazing finish, but they should not be considered a replacement for steel trowels. Stainless steel trowels are still considered the best tool for installing the first few coats of plaster.
The type of plastering trowel you choose depends on your specific needs. Metal trowels are reliable and consistent, but plastic trowels are lightweight and flexible. Metal trowels may be more suitable for larger spaces, as they provide a smooth and consistent finish. Plastic trowels, on the other hand, are ideal for smaller spaces and provide a high-quality finish.
While metal trowels have their benefits, the rise in popularity of plastic trowels has made plasterers consider switching. Plastic trowels are a modern approach to the classic metal trowel and have become a favourite of many tradesmen. However, plastic trowels are not perfect; their lightweight construction makes them more susceptible to damage and less reliable than metal trowels.
Overall, metal trowels offer unmatched reliability and consistency in plastering. While plastic trowels provide benefits such as lightweight flexibility, they may not offer the same durability and longevity as metal trowels. Metal trowels have been trusted for decades in the plastering industry, providing strong and consistent results.
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Plastic trowels are susceptible to damage
Plastic trowels are increasingly popular in the construction industry, especially for plastering. They are lightweight, flexible, and easy to carry, making them a great option for achieving a top-quality finish. However, one of the main downsides of plastic trowels is their susceptibility to damage.
Plastic trowels are not as sturdy as their metal counterparts, and their blades can get damaged easily, especially when going over beads. While plastic trowels provide a cleaner and better finish, they are more prone to damage and may not be suitable for certain tasks, such as applying pressure to corners or flattening into tight spaces. This is because plastic trowels are primarily designed for finishing work, and their flexible nature makes them warp-prone.
To prevent damage to plastic trowel blades, some plasterers use paper binders or wet and dry paper to protect the edges. This practice is not unique to plastic trowels, as some plasterers also use similar protection with their stainless steel trowels. Additionally, plastic trowels should not be viewed as a complete replacement for metal trowels. Instead, they are an excellent addition to a plasterer's toolbox, offering advantages for specific tasks.
Despite their susceptibility to damage, plastic trowels have gained popularity due to their lightweight and flexible nature, which provides better control and reduces joint strain during prolonged use. The reduced weight allows for longer task durations and a more comfortable plastering experience. Plastic trowels are also known for delivering a consistent finish, free from bumps and ripples, and without the need for water, resulting in walls with a good consistent colour and no watermarks.
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Plastic trowels are not a replacement for steel
Plastic plastering trowels have been growing in popularity over the last few years, with many plasterers favouring the new material over traditional steel trowels. Plastic trowels are lightweight and flexible, making them easier on the body and ideal for skimming and finishing work. However, despite their benefits, plastic trowels should not be considered a complete replacement for steel trowels. Here's why:
First and foremost, steel trowels are built to last. They are made from sturdy and reliable materials, such as stainless steel, which makes them much stronger and less susceptible to damage than plastic trowels. Metal trowels have been relied upon for decades to bring consistency to plastering work, and their finish is often considered superior. While plastic trowels may produce a fantastic finish, they are not designed for laying on plaster or applying the first few coats. Instead, they are best suited for skimming and finishing, as their flexible but warp-prone nature can create a smooth and consistent finish without leaving marks in the wet plaster.
Additionally, steel trowels have a range of benefits that plastic trowels cannot match. Steel trowels are often favoured for their ability to effectively apply plaster and produce a high-quality finish. While plastic trowels may be lighter and more flexible, they lack the strength and reliability of steel trowels. Metal trowels may require more maintenance, but they offer a level of durability that plastic trowels struggle to achieve. The longevity of metal trowels is unmatched, and they are much less likely to need replacement compared to their plastic counterparts.
Furthermore, the choice between a plastic or steel trowel ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of a plastering job. Different jobs may require different tools, and it is common for plasterers to use multiple trowels for a single project. While plastic trowels can be a fantastic addition to a plasterer's toolkit, they should not be seen as a direct replacement for steel trowels. Each type of trowel has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, and experienced plasterers often learn to utilise both to achieve the best results.
In conclusion, while plastic trowels offer benefits such as lightweight flexibility and a smooth finish, they should not be considered a replacement for steel trowels. Steel trowels remain superior in terms of strength, reliability, and durability. Plastic trowels are a valuable addition to the toolbox, but for installing the first few coats of plaster and achieving a long-lasting tool, steel trowels are still the best option.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic plastering trowels are lightweight, flexible, and comfortable to use. They are also less strenuous on the body when plastering for extended periods.
Plastic trowels are more susceptible to damage during use, especially when going over beads. They are not suitable for applying or flattening plaster and are designed exclusively for finishing work.
Metal trowels are generally stronger, more reliable, and provide a consistent finish. However, plastic trowels are lighter and easier on the body, resulting in less effort required to plaster a wall. The best choice depends on the user's preferences and specific requirements.
While opinions vary, some popular options for plastic plastering trowels include the Refina Superflex, Marshalltown Flex, and K brand plaster tools. The 16” Refina Plaziflex Trowel is also recommended for its versatility and 'flex-back' design, which provides both rigidity and flexibility.
