Cement Trowels

About Cement Trowels

Cement trowels are essential hand tools designed for spreading, smoothing, and finishing cement-based materials including concrete, renders, screeds, and mortar. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional-grade cement trowels from leading manufacturers such as Marshalltown and Faithfull, available in various sizes and blade materials to suit different applications. These robust tools feature carefully engineered blade profiles that allow tradespeople to achieve smooth, professional finishes on concrete slabs, rendered walls, swimming pool surfaces, and numerous other cementitious applications.

Quality cement trowels are manufactured from either high-carbon steel or stainless steel, with stainless steel options offering superior rust resistance and easier cleaning when working with corrosive cement mixtures. Professional models incorporate ergonomically designed handles with comfortable grips that reduce hand fatigue during extended use, whilst durable mounting systems ensure the blade remains firmly secured to the handle throughout demanding site work.

Applications

Cement trowels are indispensable tools for construction and building professionals including:

• Bricklayers and Blocklayers: Spreading and finishing cement mortar and working with concrete blocks
• Plasterers and Renderers: Applying and smoothing cement-based renders on external walls
• Concrete Finishers: Finishing concrete floors, driveways, and structural elements
• Groundworkers: Finishing concrete bases, footings, and external hardstanding areas
• Swimming Pool Installers: Rendering and finishing pool structures with specialised large trowels
• Landscape Contractors: Laying concrete paths, patios, and garden features
• General Builders: Various cement and concrete work across building projects
• DIY Enthusiasts: Tackling concrete laying, rendering, or patio projects

Choosing The Right Cement Trowels

Blade Material: Stainless steel blades provide excellent rust resistance, easier cleaning, and smoother finishes, making them ideal for professional daily use. High-carbon steel offers good durability at a lower price point but requires more maintenance to prevent corrosion.

Size and Coverage: Standard finishing trowels typically range from 280mm to 400mm in length. Larger trowels cover extensive flat surfaces quickly, whilst smaller sizes offer better control in confined spaces. Swimming pool trowels are considerably larger for efficiently covering curved surfaces.

Handle Design: Ergonomic handles with comfortable grips reduce hand fatigue during prolonged use. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks models with robust tang and handle connections that won't loosen under heavy use, available in both traditional wooden handles and modern composite materials that resist moisture damage.

Blade Flexibility: The right amount of flex allows the blade to follow surface contours for smooth finishes without digging in. Consider your specific application when selecting blade stiffness.

Safety Information

Skin Protection: Wet cement is highly alkaline and can cause chemical burns with prolonged contact. Always wear appropriate work gloves when handling cement-based materials and wash any skin contact immediately with clean water.

Manual Handling: Repetitive trowelling motions can lead to strain injuries affecting wrists, elbows, and shoulders. Take regular breaks, use ergonomic tools, and maintain good posture whilst working.

Tool Maintenance: Keep trowel blades clean and edges smooth to prevent snagging injuries. Store tools safely with blade edges protected to prevent accidental cuts during retrieval from tool bags.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between stainless steel and carbon steel cement trowels?

Stainless steel offers superior rust resistance, easier cleaning, and smoother finishes with less material drag, making it the preferred choice for professionals who use trowels daily. Carbon steel trowels are more economical and perfectly adequate for occasional use, but require more maintenance to prevent corrosion.

What size cement trowel should I buy?

For general cement finishing work, a trowel between 330mm and 400mm provides a good balance of coverage and control. Larger trowels are efficient for extensive flat areas like floors but require more skill to handle, whilst smaller sizes offer better precision for detailed work and confined spaces.

How do I maintain my cement trowel?

Clean your cement trowel immediately after use before cement hardens, using a stiff brush and water. Dry thoroughly after cleaning. Stainless steel blades need minimal maintenance beyond cleaning, whilst carbon steel blades benefit from a light coating of oil to prevent rust. Store trowels in a dry location with blades protected.