Brick Trowels

About Brick Trowels

Brick trowels are essential hand tools for spreading, shaping and smoothing mortar when laying bricks, blocks or stone. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of brick trowels from trusted manufacturers including Marshalltown, Faithfull, RST, Tyzack, Blue Spot and Draper, offering both traditional patterns and modern ergonomic designs to suit every tradesperson's preference and budget.

The selection includes the two main trowel patterns used in the UK: the London pattern, featuring a rounded heel favoured by British bricklayers for general brickwork, and the Philadelphia pattern, with its straighter heel and narrower blade preferred for blockwork applications. Available with traditional wooden handles or contemporary soft-grip designs, these trowels cater to both time-served professionals and DIY enthusiasts tackling garden walls and home improvement projects.

Applications

• Bricklayers: Daily use for laying bricks, spreading mortar beds and creating clean jointing work on residential and commercial projects
• Stonemasons: Mortar application for stone walls, restoration work and decorative masonry
• General Builders: Occasional brickwork on extensions, repairs and general construction projects
• Landscapers: Building garden walls, retaining walls, raised beds and decorative masonry features
• Pointing Specialists: Repointing and restoration work using smaller trowels and combination tools
• Construction Apprentices: Developing proper bricklaying technique with reliable, well-balanced trowels
• DIY Enthusiasts: Garden walls, barbecues, planters and other masonry projects requiring professional-looking results

Choosing The Right Brick Trowels

Pattern Selection: London pattern trowels with rounded heels suit traditional British brickwork, whilst Philadelphia patterns offer lighter, more manoeuvrable alternatives ideal for blockwork. Many experienced bricklayers keep both styles for different applications.

Blade Size: Standard brick trowels range from 250-300mm (10-12 inches). Larger blades hold more mortar for increased productivity, whilst smaller trowels provide better control for detailed work. Wide London pattern trowels excel on high-volume commercial projects.

Handle Design: Traditional wooden handles offer classic feel and balance, but modern soft-grip handles with cushioned, ergonomic designs significantly reduce hand fatigue during extended use. Non-slip textures benefit those working in wet conditions.

Blade Quality: Premium brands like Marshalltown and Faithfull Prestige use high-carbon steel that maintains flexibility and durability after years of regular use. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks trowels from established manufacturers with decades of experience producing tools to professional standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between London and Philadelphia pattern brick trowels?

The London pattern features a rounded heel and is the traditional choice for British bricklayers, offering excellent control for general brickwork. The Philadelphia pattern has a straighter heel and narrower blade, making it lighter and more manoeuvrable, often preferred for blockwork. The choice largely depends on personal preference and what feels most comfortable.

What size brick trowel should I buy as a beginner?

Most beginners find an 280mm (11-inch) London pattern trowel offers the best balance between mortar capacity and control whilst developing technique. This versatile size suits general brickwork, with options to add larger trowels for production work or smaller tools for pointing as experience grows.

How do I maintain my brick trowel?

Clean your trowel thoroughly after each use, removing all mortar residue before it hardens. Wipe the blade with an oily rag to prevent rust and store in a dry location. Never leave trowels in water overnight, as this damages both blade and handle. With proper care, quality brick trowels last many years of professional use.