Flooring Trowels

About Flooring Trowels

Flooring trowels are specialised hand tools designed for applying and spreading flooring adhesives, levelling compounds, and screeds across horizontal surfaces. Featuring wider, flatter blades than standard plastering trowels, these essential tools enable floor layers and tilers to achieve perfectly level bases required for installing tiles, vinyl, laminate, and other floor coverings. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks quality flooring trowels from trusted brands including RST and Faithfull, engineered for both professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts.

Quality flooring trowels typically feature stainless steel blades that resist corrosion from wet adhesives and compounds, ensuring longevity even with daily professional use. The blade design incorporates slight flexibility that allows operators to apply consistent pressure whilst following floor contours, preventing ridges and ensuring even coverage. Modern flooring trowels often include ergonomic soft-grip handles that reduce hand fatigue during extended use on site, making them comfortable for both large commercial projects and domestic installations.

Applications

Flooring trowels are essential tools for various construction and renovation professionals:

• Floor Layers - installing vinyl, linoleum, and carpet tiles across residential and commercial properties
• Tilers - laying ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone floor tiles with precision
• Screeding Contractors - applying and levelling floor screeds in new builds and renovations
• Bathroom and Kitchen Fitters - preparing level floors for wet rooms and appliance installations
• General Builders - undertaking floor preparation as part of broader construction projects
• Property Maintenance Teams - carrying out floor repairs and refurbishments
• DIY Enthusiasts - tackling home improvement projects involving floor levelling and tile installation

Choosing The Right Flooring Trowels

Selecting the appropriate flooring trowel depends on several important factors:

Blade Material: Stainless steel blades are the professional choice, offering rust resistance and easy cleaning when working with wet compounds and adhesives. Carbon steel alternatives may be more economical but require additional maintenance to prevent corrosion.

Blade Size: Larger blades (350-400mm) cover expansive areas quickly, ideal for commercial floors, whilst smaller trowels (280-300mm) offer better control in confined spaces like bathrooms and utility rooms.

Handle Design: Soft-grip handles significantly reduce hand fatigue during extended use. Look for ergonomically shaped handles that provide secure grip even when wearing work gloves.

Build Quality: Check the tang construction—a full tang extending through the handle offers superior durability for daily professional use. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks brands like RST and Faithfull, known for robust construction that withstands demanding site conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a flooring trowel and a plastering trowel?

Flooring trowels feature wider, flatter blades specifically designed for spreading materials across horizontal floor surfaces, whilst plastering trowels have more curved blades suited to vertical wall work. Using the correct tool ensures better control and a more professional finish.

How do I clean my flooring trowel after use?

Clean your trowel immediately after use, before adhesives or compounds set. Scrape off excess material, then wash with warm water and a stiff brush. For stubborn residue on stainless steel blades, use mild detergent. Dry thoroughly to maintain the smooth blade surface essential for quality work.

What size flooring trowel do I need for domestic projects?

For typical domestic bathrooms and kitchens, a flooring trowel around 280-300mm offers good coverage whilst remaining manoeuvrable in tighter spaces. For larger open-plan areas, a 350-400mm trowel speeds up work considerably whilst still providing adequate control.