Ok I no there's a thread on about it at the min iv gone to buy one a couple times now my concern is how long does it take to mix the next mix up has the other 3 bags you have just put down started to set and you end up with dry lines I use ardex na a lot and k11 and also who rates the stand up trowel cheers
If you are quick enough you wont get the dry lines, what I tend to do is pour the last out of the bucket then put in another 3 bag mix, let the station mix up on slow whilst you spread the last bit poured. I found that works best for me. If you have someone with you then theres no issue because whilst you are screeding the mix is already underway. Im in the process of getting 2 of the stand up trowels but have spoke to a couple who have used it and rate them highly. My main questions were 1.whats it like spreading with skirting on 2. Does the floor have to be pretty flat in the first place to pull it off with the stand up method? the answers I got were 1. Not an issue just as long as you are careful but my need to use your normal trowel in some areas but not always 2.been used over some pretty rough floors yet the finish is still brill. I was advised to still use a spikey though regardless which I would anyway.
To add also that Ive used the NA twice with it and no issues, if anything I found the Level it 2 was setting quicker out the screeds ive used with it. Hope my info helps mate Time wise id say it takes approx 6mins for the next mix start to finish.
Just as an alternative for some of you lads, Vitrex do a mixing stand for around £70 http://www.tooled-up.com/product/vitrex-mixer-stand-for-power-paddle-mixers/198104/ . Granted it doesn't rock over, but it is on wheels and any bucket (not sure on max bucket capacity) can be used. Obviously not as good as the itools station but probably worth considering for some of you. It's the pikeys mixing station
Personally i brought a extra bucket, so as soon as i have mixed one bucket i leave another bucket mixing away.
I don't get dry lines in my screed anyway coz me & my labourer are quick as **** But I still want an itools station or 2.... Then I can sack my labourer
Dry lines are inevitable if your are on your own sometimes even with itools station Ie. massive room, temp etc... Just part and parcel of the game mate. Rubber them down buff off and feather no probs at all. If you have a labourer or a couple of guys mixing and spreading you prob won't get them. Also you could try priming floor twice improves flow and dry time.
I've got the stand up trowel but not used it yet. I thought the comb was adjustable like a pin leveller but not so. The gaps look quite wide and high but I guess it levels out thin enough. I'll still spike it to help it.
