MASTERING THE FINISH
The Refina TOOLS Series
Part 2 – NotchTile™ Trowels, Sponge Floats & Buckets
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When precision meets performance — that’s where Refina Tools shine. In this second instalment of Mastering the Finish, we take a look at Refina’s latest innovation in tiling technology, the HUDS NotchTile™, alongside the trusted lineup of sponge floats, wash buckets and durable X-RAY tubs that help trade professionals perfect every stage of the job.
Introducing the HUDS NotchTile™ by Refina
The next generation of adhesive spreading notch tiling trowels. Developed in collaboration with Ken Hudson of HUDS Tiling Services, the NotchTile™ represents a new era in tiling innovation. Designed and tested for over three years, this professional adhesive spreading trowel was built from the ground up to solve a problem, not just refine an existing design. Ken approached REFINA with a bold idea: to rethink how tile adhesive is spread. Traditional trowels hadn’t evolved in over 50 years, so REFINA took on the challenge. After countless prototypes, advanced manufacturing techniques, and real-world testing, the NotchTile™ was born.
A lightweight, durable, and professional-grade tool that’s as functional as it is revolutionary. The secret lies in its laser-cut H45 notch pattern, designed to undercut adhesive so ridges collapse easily with less pressure. This results in superior coverage and a stronger bond. Each NotchTile™ features a premium steel blade coated with a unique, easy-clean copper finish that enhances durability and protects the surface for long-term use. Available in multiple sizes, colours and hand orientations, the NotchTile™ is a true example of design meeting craftsmanship.
Watch the incredible adhesive coverage: See them in use Download brochure: NotchTile Flyer
Now let’s look at the sponge floats and buckets that have made REFINA the go-to brand for the trade in UK & Europe.
Cellular Sponge Floats - For absorbent, professional finishing.
Refina’s Cellular Sponge Floats make cleaning and floating render materials easy. These high-absorbency sponges hold more water, making them ideal for cleaning grout joints and removing residue efficiently. Their square-cut face increases surface area and extends working time between rinses.
Key Benefits:
- High absorption and durability
- Open and square-cut face options
- Easy to rinse and reuse
Applications:
Perfect for cleaning joints after grouting and floating render materials.
Watch the Cellular Sponge Float
FINATEX Trowels
Made in Germany and engineered from a carefully refined alloy, these blades strike the ideal balance between gauge, durability and break-in time. With a perfectly flat, pre-worn base and rounded edges the FINATEX reduces trowel marks, chatter and surface defects in each application. Lightweight and well-balanced, it’s highly responsive, allowing for accurate feathering of edges, cleaner corners and smoother transitions.
Watch it perform
PLAZIFLEX Trowels
With plastic blades that glide over wet compounds, the PLAZIFLEX is flexible with a foam layer which creates less drag than a traditional steel trowel. The innovative lightweight plastic blade also helps to reduce day to day working fatigue and aids the relief of common elbow joint shoulder pain.
See them in use
H Section Feather Edges
Consistency is king in rendering and plastering. REFINA’s feather edges and serrated feather edges make light work of large walls, ensuring render is applied evenly with zero guesswork. The serrated edge distributes material and removes air pockets, whilst the straight edge levels and identifies high and low spots.
Watch the process
Notched Spatulas & Diamond Floats
When speed and precision matter, notched spatulas and diamond floats are your best mates. Notched spatulas evenly distribute compound and remove air pockets. The hard-wearing diamond floats helps compact and flatten the surface whilst defining the texture with the unique diamond indented pattern.
Pool Trowels
Available in both short and long shanks, REFINA’s pool trowels are ideal for creating smooth flat surfaces in cement, render, screed and epoxy applications.
Pro Tips for Choosing Your Trowel
Start small, finish big – Use smaller trowels for detail, then switch to larger blades for main walls.
Invest in flexibility – A trowel like the Superflex-1 adapts across different stages, from flattening to finishing.
Look after your tools – Keep blades clean and store them properly to extend their life.
The REFINA Advantage
By choosing REFINA, you’re investing in:
Durability – Specialist stainless steel and plastic blades built to last.
Ergonomics – Soft-grip handles and balanced weight to reduce fatigue.
Precision – Engineered edges for flawless results.
Trust – A brand backed by tradespeople across the UK and now in Australia.
Stay tuned for the next in the series: Part 2 – NotchTile Trowels, Sponges & Buckets
