The right masonry trowel can make any bricklaying or concrete job easier. Homeowners should consider the materials they’re using, the space in which they’ll work, and their experience with related repair projects when deciding which trowel is best. Read our guide below to learn about different types of masonry trowels, how to use each, and different techniques you can adopt for your next do-it-yourself task.
Types of Masonry Trowels
Masonry trowels are available in several models, and each is designed to handle different tasks. Read more below.
Brick-Laying Trowels
Brick-laying trowels hold more mortar than other types, which can help you to build walls quickly and efficiently. They fall into two main categories:
- London trowel: London trowels are smaller than Philadelphia trowels and have a narrower heel, which makes them ideal for bricklaying jobs.
- Philadelphia trowel: Philadelphia trowels are designed for tasks that involve large concrete blocks. Many of these trowels are made of hard-carbon steel, which is especially useful for making tough cuts.
Masonry Repair Trowels
Masonry repair trowels are designed for specialty repair jobs on small projects and structures. They have smaller surfaces and more specialized shapes than other trowel types.
Below are three common masonry repair trowel types:
- Gauging trowels: Gauging trowels have a round edge that helps operators get around pipes and tight areas. You might use them for a touch-up job in a kitchen or bathroom, for example.
- Margin trowels: Margin trowels simplify the task of stuffing mortar into crevices. They come in a variety of edge styles.
- Pointing trowels: Pointing trowels are useful for tackling small surfaces and single bricks.
Finishing Trowels
Finishing trowels are the best choice for smoothing out materials such as cement and plaster. They come in various shapes and sizes that handle different surfaces.
Four common finishing trowel types are included below.
- Duckbill trowel: Duckbill trowels are long and slender, and feature curved edges that can smooth materials around obstacles and in tight spots.
- Magnesium float: Magnesium floats help operators pull water to the surface of the cement and fill in divots.
- Margin finishing trowel: These trowels are designed to finish concrete. Their large size makes them ideal for pouring and finishing concrete floors. Some models feature square sides and rounded sides, which makes them especially versatile.
- Pool trowel: Pool trowels feature round edges on both sides that can easily handle the curved edges of new swimming pools.
Many finishing trowels are made of durable stainless steel or high-carbon steel, which are corrosion-resistant.
Choosing the Right Trowel for Your Project
Consider the material you’re working with, the context of your repair project, and your level of experience with masonry when deciding which trowel is right for you. You may find you prefer trowels with a certain feel, weight, or balance.
For large-scale bricklaying projects, choose a London trowel or Philadelphia trowel. If you’re making smaller repairs or handling detail work, choose a pointing trowel or a gauging trowel. If you’re working with concrete or plaster, buy a finishing trowel that can handle the surface area of your project.
Trowel Techniques for Different Applications
If you’re finishing concrete, start with a magnesium float. Keep the float flat to the surface, and move it around the concrete in a circular motion. Some people prefer to leave a magnesium finish for added skid-resistance.
If you’re working with basement floors, let the concrete harden a little, then follow the magnesium float with a steel finishing trowel for a smooth, glossy surface. Don’t apply too much pressure, lest you make an imprint in the surface that you’ll need to smooth again.
If you’re tackling brick-laying and masonry repair trowels, you’ll use more diverse techniques, including those below.
- Spreading mortar: Spread mortar in a smooth, sweeping motion to maintain an even layer.
- Buttering bricks: Apply an even layer of mortar to the end of a brick before placing it in the wall.
- Tooling joints: Use the round edge of a masonry trowel to create a smooth, concave joint between bricks.
Proper Trowel Maintenance
Clean your masonry trowel thoroughly after each use, as residue can make the tool less effective. If your trowel’s edges dull over time, use a sharpening tool to fix nicks and keep the trowel performing at its best.
