What Are the Most Common Types of Trowels and Their Uses?

01/10/2024

What Are the Most Common Types of Trowels and Their Uses?

When it comes to construction, tiling, and masonry, the humble trowel is an essential tool. Whether you're laying bricks, applying plaster, or creating smooth finishes, having the right trowel for the job makes all the difference.

We are going to explore some of the most common types of trowels and explain what each one is best suited for. Below, you'll also find a list of specific trowels we offer, which you can easily purchase through our website.

Brick Trowels

Brick trowels are designed for laying bricks and spreading mortar. They have a pointed blade, making it easier to apply and shape the mortar between bricks. The blade size and shape can vary based on the pattern - either Philadelphia or London - which affects how much mortar you can hold.

• Philadelphia Pattern: These trowels have a larger blade, making them ideal for working with heavier loads of mortar and larger bricks.
  • Marshalltown Brick Trowel 10" x 5" Philadelphia Pattern with DuraSoft Handle
  • Marshalltown Brick Trowel 11" x 5 1/2" Philadelphia Pattern with DuraSoft Handle
  • Marshalltown Philadelphia Brick Trowel 12" x 6" DuraSoft Handle
  • Kraft 10" Philadelphia Brick Trowel With Proform Soft Grip Handle
  • Kraft 12" Philadelphia Brick Trowel With Proform Soft Grip Handle
• London Pattern: These have a narrower blade and are suited for general bricklaying. They’re ideal for smaller bricks and precision work.
  • Marshalltown Brick Trowel 10" London Pattern DuraSoft Handle
  • Marshalltown Brick Trowel 11" London Pattern DuraSoft Handle
  • Marshalltown Brick Trowel London Pattern 12" x 5 1/8" with DuraSoft Handle
  • Kraft 10" Wide London Brick Trowel With Proform Soft Grip Handle
  • Kraft 12" Wide London Brick Trowel With Proform Soft Grip Handle

Pointing Trowels

Pointing trowels are smaller versions of brick trowels and are used for detailed work such as repairing or repointing mortar joints. Their pointed blade allows for precision in applying small amounts of mortar or filler.

• Marshalltown Pointing Trowel Philadelphia Pattern 5" with Wooden Handle
• Marshalltown Pointing Trowel Philadelphia Pattern 5" with DuraSoft Handle

Finishing Trowels

Finishing trowels have flat, rectangular blades used for smoothing and finishing surfaces such as plaster or concrete. Their wide surface area helps to give a clean, polished finish to walls and floors.

• Marshalltown Gold Stainless Steel Blade Permashape Trowel 13" DuraSoft Handle
• Marshalltown PermaShape Broken-In Finishing Trowel 14" x 5" DuraSoft Handle
• Marshalltown Gold Stainless Steel Blade Permashape Trowel 14" DuraSoft Handle
• Marshalltown Gold Stainless Steel Blade Permashape Trowel 16" DuraSoft Handle

Edging Trowels

These trowels are specifically designed for shaping and smoothing the edges of concrete slabs to prevent chipping or cracking. They’re useful in any work where you want to finish the edges of a concrete surface cleanly.

• Marshalltown Curved Edging Trowel 6" x 3" with DuraSoft Handle
• Marshalltown Straight Edging Trowel 6" x 3" Carbon Steel with DuraSoft Handle

Corner Trowels

Corner trowels are designed to create sharp, clean corners in drywall or plaster. These trowels can have blades shaped for either inside or outside corners, ensuring smooth, professional edges.

• Inside Corner Trowels:
  • Marshalltown Drywall Inside Corner Trowel 5" x 3 1/2" with DuraSoft Handle
  • Marshalltown Exact Angle Inside Corner Trowel 4" x 4" with DuraSoft Handle
  • Marshalltown Inside Corner Trowel 4 1/4" x 1 1/2" with DuraSoft Handle
• Outside Corner Trowels:
  • Marshalltown Outside Corner Trowel 6" x 2 1/2" with DuraSoft Handle

Tile Trowels

Tile trowels, also known as notched trowels, are used for applying adhesive when installing tiles. The notches allow for an even spread of adhesive, creating a strong bond between the tiles and the surface. Different notch sizes are used depending on the size of the tile and the adhesive used.

• Marshalltown Square Notch Trowel 1/2" x 1/2" with DuraSoft Handle
• Marshalltown Tile Setting Trowel 7" x 4 3/8" with Wooden Handle

Bucket Trowels

Some trowels have more niche uses, such as bucket trowels, which are ideal for scooping mortar from a bucket, or hinge cutters for specialised jobs.

• PTI 7" Bucket Trowel

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right trowel depends on the task at hand. Whether you’re laying bricks, finishing drywall, or installing tiles, using the correct trowel ensures efficiency, accuracy, and a professional finish. Explore our range of high-quality trowels from trusted brands like Marshalltown, Kraft, and PTI to find the perfect tool for your project.