The most common tool used to push mortar between bricks is called a trowel. A trowel is a hand tool with a flat, triangular-shaped blade used to apply and spread mortar between bricks and blocks during masonry construction. Trowels come in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate different types of masonry projects and mortar mixes. The purpose of the trowel is to spread mortar evenly across the surface of each brick, completely filling the joints between them and creating a strong bond that will hold the bricks together once the mortar has cured. Using the proper technique with a trowel is an essential masonry skill for quality brick and block work.
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Types of Trowels
There are several different types of trowels designed for specific uses in masonry work:
Brick Trowel
A brick trowel has a wide, rectangular steel blade approximately 2 3⁄4 – 4 inches wide. This is the most common trowel used for applying mortar when laying bricks. The wide blade allows the mason to scoop up large amounts of mortar and apply it evenly across the surface of the bricks in long, smooth strokes.
Pointing Trowel
A pointing trowel has a narrow, triangular blade around 1⁄2 – 1 inch wide. It is used for detailed mortar work filling smaller gaps, such as sealing joints between bricks once the initial mortar has cured. The narrow blade allows the mason to firmly pack the mortar into tight spaces.
Margin Trowel
A margin trowel is a smaller version of the pointing trowel, with a blade around 1⁄2 inch wide. It is designed for getting mortar into very small spaces between bricks and in detailed finishing work.
Gauging Trowel
A gauging trowel has a rectangular steel blade with a rounded tip. It is used for mixing mortar to get a proper consistency before applying it to the bricks. The rounded tip allows the mason to blend the mortar ingredients thoroughly.
Concrete Trowel
A concrete trowel has a wide, flat rectangular metal blade with a rounded tip. It is designed specifically for smoothing and finishing the surface of poured concrete.
Trowel Blade Shapes
In addition to different sizes for specialized uses, trowel blades themselves come in a variety of shapes:
London Pattern
A London pattern trowel blade is completely flat and rectangular. This is the most common blade shape for brick and block trowels. The flat edge makes spreading mortar easy in straight strokes.
Philadelphia Pattern
A Philadelphia pattern trowel blade has a slight curve at the ends of the rectangular blade. The curve allows for scooping mortar and provides versatility in curved and circular masonry work.
Margin Trowel
A margin trowel blade is triangular instead of rectangular. The pointed shape allows the mason to reach into tight corners and joints.
Round Point
A round point trowel blade has one rounded corner. This combines the straight edge of a London pattern with a curved edge for versatility.
Trowel Handles
The handle on a trowel also affects its use:
Open Tang Handle
An open tang handle is a single piece of metal with the tang exposed. This is the most common handle style, providing comfort and control. The open tang allows masons to grip high up on the blade for more leverage if needed.
Closed Tang Handle
A closed tang handle covers up the tang (the part that extends into the blade). This can provide protection during rigorous work but reduces grip options on the blade.
Wooden Handle
Some trowels have a handle made of wood instead of metal. The wood can cushion against vibration and shock. However, wood is less durable than metal when exposed to wet mortar regularly.
Trowel Size
Choosing the right size trowel for the job is important:
Small Trowels
Pointing trowels and margin trowels with blades under 2 inches work well for compact joints and small masonry units like bricks and pavers.
Medium Trowels
Standard brick trowels and other mid-sized trowels between 3-5 inches excel for most general brick and block laying.
Large Trowels
Oversize brick trowels 5 inches and above are ideal for spreading mortar across large masonry units like concrete blocks rapidly.
Specialty Trowels
For specific needs, specialty trowels like radii corner trowels allow for curved spreading. Notched trowels create ridges for optimum thin-set application under tiles.
Trowel Materials
The durability and performance of a trowel depends heavily on the material:
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel trowel blades provide strength and reliability. This material withstands routine wear and tear on masonry jobsites.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel adds corrosion resistance and longevity to a trowel blade. Stainless steel trowels have a longer lifespan than standard carbon steel.
Plastic
Plastic trowels are lightweight and inexpensive. However, they lack the durability for everyday professional masonry work.
Concrete
Concrete finishing calls for an extra-large, flat steel trowel to smooth the surface. Magnesium trowels provide a very smooth finish.
How to Use a Trowel
Once you have selected the right trowel for your project, proper technique is crucial:
Hold Properly
Grip the trowel handle near the base of the blade. Wrap your fingers firmly around the tang. Support the handle with your thumb pointed down the blade.
Load Mortar
Hold the trowel almost perpendicular to the mortar board as you scoop a suitable amount of mortar onto the tip of the blade.
Spread Evenly
Flip the trowel to a 45-degree angle and use the bottom edge as a guide to spread the mortar evenly. Apply just enough to fully fill joints.
Consistent Pressure
Keep weight distributed evenly as you bear down and move the trowel smoothly along the bricks with consistent pressure.
Full Contact
The edge of the blade should maintain full contact with the brick surfaces for optimal spreading and adhesion.
Joint Tooling
For finished joints, compact and tool the mortar neatly with a jointing tool once semi-dry.
Choosing a Quality Trowel
With heavy-duty use over time, a quality trowel is a worthwhile investment. Look for:
– Forged high carbon steel blade
– Comfortable grip and properly aligned handle
– Renowned brand like Marshalltown or Kraft Tool Co.
– Graded for professional use
Avoid cheaply made discount store trowels that lack durability. The nominal savings are not worth the aggravation and consistently poor performance. With proper maintenance, a high-quality trowel will last for years and help produce quality masonry work.
Maintaining Your Trowel
Cleaning
Thoroughly clean the trowel after each use with water and a stiff brush. Avoid letting mortar dry on the blade.
Rust Prevention
Apply a very thin coat of linseed oil or silicone spray to the blade after cleaning. This displaces moisture and prevents rust.
Storage
Keep trowels out of damp conditions. Store in a toolbox or hang up to prolong life.
Conclusion
For skilled masons, a quality trowel is one of the most essential tools for applying mortar and achieving high standards on any block or brick project. Choosing the right size and shape for the job, proper grip and technique, and regular care and maintenance will ensure your trowel provides reliable service for all your masonry mortaring needs. With practice, a trowel becomes an extension of your hand and allows you to spread mortar quickly, efficiently, and neatly for durable and attractive results.