Description
1. Switch between blades with the convenience of only one handle
2. Drain system let your blades dry while in storage
3. Blade lock stores blades securely
Product Overview
The GUSHI 6PCS Trowel Set is a professional-grade notched trowel kit designed for tile installers who need multiple notch sizes in one compact package. Manufactured by Huzhou Gu's Imp. & Exp. Co., Ltd. since 2004, this set includes 6 interchangeable stainless steel blades (6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm square notch, U-notch, and tiger notch), 1 TPR soft-grip handle, and a drain system storage box. ISO 9001 and CE certified, GUSHI exports to 20+ countries including the USA, Germany, UK, Brazil, and Australia, with a production capacity of 100,000 sets per month.
The core innovation of this trowel set is the interchangeable handle system. Instead of purchasing and storing 6 separate trowels (each with its own permanently attached handle), the installer owns one ergonomic TPR handle that quickly attaches to any of the 6 stainless steel blades via a secure blade lock mechanism. This reduces toolbox weight by approximately 60%, saves storage space, and lowers the per-notch-size cost from US$12-15 (individual trowel) to approximately US$2-4 (individual blade within the set).
The drain system storage box is engineered specifically for professional tilers who work with water-based cementitious adhesives. After cleaning, residual moisture on the blades drains through ventilation channels at the bottom of the box, preventing rust formation and maintaining notch edge sharpness. This extends blade life to 2-3 years of daily professional use, compared to 6-12 months for carbon steel trowels stored in conventional tool bags.
The 6 notch profiles cover the full spectrum of tile installation applications: 6mm and 8mm square notches for wall tiles up to 300mm, 10mm and 12mm square notches for floor tiles from 300mm to 900mm, U-notch for large-format tiles requiring 95-100% adhesive coverage, and tiger notch for specialist applications including decoupling membrane bedding. This makes the set compliant with BS 5385 and ANSI A108 standards for both residential and commercial tiling projects.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | GUSHI 6PCS Trowel Set |
| Model Number | GSH-TRS6 |
| Brand | GUSHI |
| Manufacturer | Huzhou Gu's Imp. & Exp. Co., Ltd. |
| Set Contents | 6 stainless steel blades + 1 TPR handle + 1 drain storage box |
| Blade 1 | 6mm x 6mm square notch |
| Blade 2 | 8mm x 8mm square notch |
| Blade 3 | 10mm x 10mm square notch |
| Blade 4 | 12mm x 12mm square notch |
| Blade 5 | U-notch (round notch, ~10mm x 20mm) |
| Blade 6 | Tiger notch (Euro diagonal notch) |
| Blade Material | Stainless steel (rust-resistant, 2-3 year professional lifespan) |
| Blade Dimensions | 280mm x 115mm (11" x 4.5") |
| Blade Thickness | 1.2mm |
| Handle Material | TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) soft grip |
| Handle Type | Interchangeable, quick-release blade lock |
| Hand Orientation | Right-handed and left-handed compatible |
| Storage Box | Plastic with drain system (ventilated base) |
| Total Weight | ~2.1 kg (set with box) |
| Blade Lock Mechanism | Push-button quick release |
| Applicable Tile Sizes | 100mm mosaics to 900mm large-format porcelain |
| Adhesive Bed Range | 1.5mm (3mm V-notch equivalent) to 6mm (12mm square notch) |
| Compatible Adhesives | Cementitious thin-set, polymer-modified (S1/S2), epoxy, ready-mixed |
| Compliance Standards | BS 5385, ANSI A108, EN 12004 |
| Certifications | ISO 9001:2015, CE |
| Price Range | US$8.00 - $25.00 / set (quantity dependent) |
| OEM MOQ | 500 sets |
| Lead Time | 25-35 days (OEM), 7-15 days (stock) |
| Payment Terms | L/C, T/T, Western Union, PayPal |
| Port of Loading | Shanghai or Ningbo, China |
How the 6PCS Trowel Set Works
Interchangeable Blade Lock Mechanism
The GUSHI 6PCS Trowel Set uses a push-button quick-release blade lock system. The TPR handle features an integrated locking clamp at its base that grips a standardized mounting slot on each stainless steel blade. To attach a blade, align the mounting slot with the clamp and push down until the lock clicks. To release, press the button on the handle side and lift the blade out. The mechanism is rated for 10,000+ lock/release cycles with zero degradation in grip strength, ensuring the blade remains firmly secured during aggressive adhesive spreading motions.
Notch Geometry and Adhesive Ridge Formation
Each notch profile creates a distinct ridge pattern in the adhesive. Square notches (6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm) produce flat-topped ridges with vertical sides, depositing the highest volume of adhesive per square meter. When a tile is pressed onto these ridges, the adhesive compresses sideways to fill the gaps, producing a final bed thickness approximately half the notch depth (the "half-notch rule"). A 12mm square notch produces a 6mm bed; a 6mm notch produces a 3mm bed.
The U-notch (round notch) produces semicircular ridges that collapse more easily under tile pressure, trapping less air. This makes it ideal for large-format tiles where 95-100% coverage is required by standards such as BS 5385 Part 5 for wet areas. The tiger notch (Euro diagonal notch) creates angled ridges that provide directional adhesive flow, useful for back-buttering and for installing decoupling membranes like Schluter DITRA where a specific adhesive bed thickness is critical.
Drain System Storage Box
The storage box incorporates a ventilated base with drainage channels that allow water and uncured adhesive residue to flow out of the box rather than pooling around the blades. After cleaning the blades with water (for cementitious adhesives) or the appropriate solvent (for epoxy adhesives), the installer places them back in the box. Air circulates through the ventilation channels, accelerating drying time from approximately 4 hours (closed storage) to under 1 hour. This prevents the formation of iron oxide (rust) on the blade surface, which would degrade notch edge sharpness and contaminate subsequent adhesive batches.
Key Features Explained
1. Six Notch Profiles in One Compact Set
The set covers the full range of tile installation needs with 6 distinct notch profiles. The 6mm square notch is used for small wall tiles (100-300mm) in dry areas, producing a 3mm adhesive bed. The 8mm square notch handles medium wall tiles (200-300mm) and wet-area walls, producing a 4mm bed. The 10mm square notch is the standard for floor tiles (300-600mm), producing a 5mm bed. The 12mm square notch is designed for large-format floor tiles (600-900mm) and underfloor heating substrates, producing a 6mm bed. The U-notch provides maximum coverage for very large tiles (900mm+) and natural stone. The tiger notch is the specialist blade for decoupling membranes and back-buttering applications.
2. Interchangeable TPR Soft-Grip Handle
The single TPR handle replaces 6 individual handles, reducing weight by approximately 60% and saving significant toolbox space. TPR (thermoplastic rubber) provides a non-slip grip even with wet or gloved hands, absorbs vibration during aggressive spreading, and maintains flexibility across a temperature range of -20°C to +60°C. The handle's ergonomic shape reduces hand fatigue during extended use, and the symmetric design allows both right-handed and left-handed installation without adjustment.
3. Quick-Release Blade Lock
The push-button blade lock enables blade changes in under 5 seconds, compared to 30+ seconds to locate and switch between separate trowels. The lock mechanism uses a spring-loaded steel clamp that grips the blade mounting slot with consistent force, preventing blade wobble or detachment during use. The mechanism is rated for 10,000+ cycles and requires no tools for maintenance.
4. Drain System Storage Box
The ventilated storage box is a key differentiator from individual trowels stored in tool bags. Drainage channels at the base allow water and adhesive residue to escape, while air circulation dries blades in under 1 hour. This prevents rust, maintains notch sharpness, and keeps blades organized for quick access on the job site. The box also protects blade edges from impact damage during transport.
5. Stainless Steel Blade Construction
All 6 blades are forged from corrosion-resistant stainless steel with a 1.2mm thickness, providing the rigidity needed for consistent adhesive spreading without flex. Stainless steel resists the alkaline environment of cement-based adhesives (pH 12-13) and the chemical aggression of epoxy resins, extending blade life to 2-3 years of daily professional use. The blades maintain notch edge sharpness for longer than carbon steel alternatives, ensuring consistent adhesive ridge dimensions throughout the blade's lifespan.
Notch Size Selection Guide
Choosing the correct notch size is the single most important technical decision in tile installation. The notch determines adhesive bed thickness, coverage percentage, and compliance with industry standards. Use the table below to select the right blade for your tile size and application.
| Blade Notch | Profile | Tile Size | Resulting Bed | Coverage % | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6mm x 6mm | Square | 100-300mm | 3mm | 60-75% | Wall tiles, dry areas, kitchen splashbacks |
| 8mm x 8mm | Square | 200-400mm | 4mm | 75-85% | Wet-area wall tiles, medium floor tiles |
| 10mm x 10mm | Square | 300-600mm | 5mm | 85-95% | Standard floor tiles, porcelain up to 600mm |
| 12mm x 12mm | Square | 600-900mm | 6mm | 90-95% | Large-format tiles, underfloor heating |
| U-notch (~10x20mm) | Round | 900mm+ | 5-6mm | 95-100% | Very large tiles, natural stone, wet areas |
| Tiger notch | Diagonal | Specialty | Variable | Variable | Decoupling membranes, back-buttering |
Pro Tip: For tiles larger than 600mm, always use the back-buttering technique: spread adhesive on the substrate with a 10mm or 12mm square notch, then apply a thin layer on the back of the tile with a 6mm notch. This achieves the 95%+ coverage required by BS 5385 and ANSI A108 for wet areas and large-format porcelain.
Applications & Suitable Materials
Applications
| Application | Recommended Blade | Adhesive Bed | Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kitchen wall splashback (ceramic 100-200mm) | 6mm square | 3mm | BS 5385 Part 3 |
| Bathroom shower wall (porcelain 200-300mm) | 8mm square | 4mm | BS 5385 Part 4 |
| Bathroom floor (porcelain 300-600mm) | 10mm square | 5mm | BS 5385 Part 5 |
| Living room floor (porcelain 600-900mm) | 12mm square | 6mm | ANSI A108.5 |
| Large-format slab (900mm+) | U-notch + back-butter | 5-6mm | BS 5385 Part 5 |
| Underfloor heating substrate | 12mm square | 6mm | BS 5385 Part 3 |
| Decoupling membrane (e.g., Schluter DITRA) | Tiger notch / 6mm square | 3-4mm | Manufacturer spec |
| Mosaic tiles (up to 100mm) | 6mm square | 3mm | BS 5385 Part 3 |
| Natural stone (marble, granite) | U-notch + back-butter | 5-6mm | BS 5385 Part 5 |
| External terrace / balcony | 12mm square + back-butter | 6mm | BS 5385 Part 5 |
Suitable Materials
| Material Type | Compatibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cementitious thin-set mortar | Excellent | Standard use; clean blades with water before adhesive cures |
| Polymer-modified adhesive (S1) | Excellent | Minimum 3mm bed required for flexibility |
| Polymer-modified adhesive (S2) | Excellent | Highly flexible; ideal for underfloor heating |
| Epoxy adhesive | Excellent | Stainless steel resists epoxy chemical aggression |
| Ready-mixed paste adhesive | Good | For dry-area wall tiles only; lower bond strength |
| Self-leveling compound | Good | Use smooth edge or 6mm notch for spreading |
| Plaster and render | Good | Stainless steel prevents rust contamination |
| Tile grout (epoxy or cementitious) | Fair | Not primary use; clean immediately after use |
Interchangeable Trowel Set vs. Individual Trowels
Professional tilers often debate whether to buy a 6-piece interchangeable trowel set or purchase 6 individual trowels. The comparison below evaluates both approaches across 10 key dimensions.
| Dimension | 6PCS Interchangeable Set | 6 Individual Trowels | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | US$8-25 per set (all 6 notches) | US$8-15 per trowel x 6 = US$48-90 | Interchangeable Set |
| Storage Space | 1 storage box (~30 x 30 x 8cm) | 6 individual trowels (scattered in toolbox) | Interchangeable Set |
| Total Weight | ~2.1 kg (6 blades + 1 handle + box) | ~4.5-6.0 kg (6 trowels with handles) | Interchangeable Set |
| Blade Switching Speed | Under 5 seconds (push-button lock) | 15-30 seconds (locate and pick up new trowel) | Interchangeable Set |
| Handle Consistency | Same grip feel across all 6 notches | Different handle shapes/brands may vary | Interchangeable Set |
| Blade Replacement Cost | US$2-4 per replacement blade | US$8-15 per replacement trowel | Interchangeable Set |
| Rust Prevention | Drain system box keeps blades dry | Depends on individual storage method | Interchangeable Set |
| Simultaneous Use | Cannot use 2 notches at the same time | Can use 2 different notches simultaneously | Individual Trowels |
| Durability of Lock Mechanism | Lock mechanism may wear over 10,000+ cycles | No moving parts; handle permanently attached | Individual Trowels |
| Transportation | Compact box, organized and protected | Loose trowels may damage other tools | Interchangeable Set |
Bottom line: The GUSHI 6PCS interchangeable trowel set wins on 8 of 10 dimensions, offering significant savings in cost, weight, storage space, and blade switching speed. The two advantages of individual trowels (simultaneous use and no lock mechanism wear) are relevant only for large teams with multiple installers working on the same site, or for tilers who keep the same notch size for years without switching.
How to Use: Step-by-Step Guide
- Select the correct blade: Match the notch size to your tile dimensions using the Notch Size Selection Guide above. For floor tiles 300-600mm, start with the 10mm square notch blade.
- Attach the blade to the handle: Align the blade's mounting slot with the handle clamp and push down until the lock clicks. tug gently to confirm the blade is secure.
- Prepare the substrate: Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and level. Remove dust, debris, and loose material that could prevent adhesive bonding.
- Mix the adhesive: Prepare cementitious thin-set or polymer-modified adhesive according to the manufacturer's instructions. Let it slake for 5-10 minutes, then re-mix without adding more water.
- Apply adhesive with the flat edge: Using the un-notched side of the blade, scoop adhesive and spread a thin bonding layer (1-2mm) over an area of approximately 1 square meter.
- Comb the adhesive: Flip the trowel to the notched side. Hold at a 45-degree angle to the substrate and comb through the adhesive in straight, parallel lines. Maintain consistent pressure and angle for uniform ridge height.
- Set the tiles: Place tiles into the combed adhesive within 10-15 minutes (open time). Press firmly with a slight twisting motion to embed the tile and collapse the adhesive ridges.
- Check coverage: Pull up a tile periodically and check the back. Coverage should be 80%+ for dry interior areas, 95%+ for wet areas and exterior applications (per BS 5385 and ANSI A108).
- Back-butter if needed: For tiles larger than 600mm or uneven substrates, switch to a 6mm blade and apply a thin layer of adhesive to the back of the tile before setting.
- Switch blades as needed: Press the release button to swap to a different notch size for different tile areas. Wipe the removed blade clean before storing.
- Clean immediately after use: Wash blades with water (for cementitious adhesives) or the appropriate solvent (for epoxy) before the adhesive cures. Cured adhesive is extremely difficult to remove and will ruin the notch edges.
- Store in the drain box: Place cleaned blades back in the ventilated storage box. The drain system will allow residual moisture to escape, preventing rust and keeping blades dry for the next use.
Important: Never leave adhesive on the blades to cure. Cement-based adhesive sets in 20-30 minutes at 20°C; once cured, mechanical removal will damage the notch edges and compromise adhesive ridge consistency. Always clean blades immediately after each use session, not at the end of the day.
For more guidance, see our related guides on GUSHI Tile Vibration Machine, Tile Leveling System, and Glass Suction Cup Lifter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What notch sizes are included in the GUSHI 6PCS Trowel Set?
The set includes 6 stainless steel blades with the following notch profiles: 6mm x 6mm square notch, 8mm x 8mm square notch, 10mm x 10mm square notch, 12mm x 12mm square notch, a U-notch (round notch, approximately 10mm x 20mm), and a tiger notch (Euro diagonal notch). This covers tile sizes from 100mm mosaics up to 900mm large-format porcelain tiles.
How does the interchangeable handle system work?
The set comes with one TPR (thermoplastic rubber) soft-grip handle that attaches to any of the 6 stainless steel blades via a quick-release blade lock mechanism. To switch blades, simply release the lock, remove the current blade, insert the new one, and secure the lock. The handle can be attached for both right-handed and left-handed use, and the blade lock stores blades securely during transport.
Can the GUSHI 6PCS Trowel Set be used for both wall and floor tiling?
Yes. The 6mm and 8mm square notch blades are ideal for wall tiles up to 300mm in dry areas, producing 3-4mm adhesive beds. The 10mm and 12mm square notch blades are designed for floor tiles 300-900mm, producing 5-6mm adhesive beds. The U-notch blade is suited for large-format floor tiles where 95-100% coverage is required, and the tiger notch is used for specialist applications like Schluter DITRA membrane bedding.
What is the drain system storage box and how does it work?
The included storage box features a built-in drain system at the bottom that allows water and residual adhesive to drain away while blades are stored. This prevents rust formation on the stainless steel blades and keeps them dry between uses. The ventilated design also speeds up drying time, extending blade life and maintaining notch edge sharpness for consistent adhesive application.
What materials can these trowels be used with?
The stainless steel blades are compatible with all standard tile installation materials: cement-based thin-set mortars, modified polymer adhesives (S1 and S2 flexible), epoxy adhesives, ready-mixed pastes, plaster, render, screed, and self-leveling compounds. Stainless steel resists corrosion from cement alkalis and epoxy resins, making these blades suitable for both wet and dry area installations.
What is the OEM MOQ for the GUSHI 6PCS Trowel Set?
The OEM minimum order quantity is 500 sets. Custom branding options include laser-engraved logos on blades and handles, custom packaging, custom notch sizes and profiles, and personalized color schemes for the TPR handle and storage box. Sample sets are available at cost price plus shipping. Lead time is typically 25-35 days for OEM orders. Payment terms: L/C, T/T, Western Union, or PayPal.
How long do the stainless steel blades last?
With proper care, the stainless steel blades last 2-3 years of daily professional use. The key factors are cleaning after each use (removing all adhesive before it cures), storing blades in the drain box to keep them dry, and replacing blades when notch edges become rounded (rounded notches produce inconsistent adhesive ridges). Stainless steel is more rust-resistant than carbon steel and maintains notch sharpness longer than plastic alternatives.
Is the GUSHI 6PCS Trowel Set certified for international markets?
Yes. The product is manufactured by Huzhou Gu's Imp. & Exp. Co., Ltd., an ISO 9001:2015 certified company with CE compliance. The company has been exporting to 20+ countries since 2004, including the USA, Germany, UK, Brazil, and Australia. GUSHI is one of 23 Chinese companies that won the anti-dumping case for diamond blades to the USA market, demonstrating compliance with international trade standards.