Shovels

About Shovels

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of professional-grade shovels suitable for tradespeople, landscapers, and serious DIY enthusiasts. Our collection includes trenching shovels, round mouth shovels, square mouth shovels, grafting shovels, and specialist cable laying shovels from trusted brands including Spear and Jackson, Bulldog, Draper, Faithfull, and Roughneck. Whether you need an all-steel construction for heavy-duty groundwork or a lightweight plastic shovel for moving loose materials, you'll find the right tool for your requirements.

Available in various handle lengths, blade sizes, and materials, our shovels are designed to withstand the rigours of professional use whilst remaining comfortable for extended periods. From compact folding shovels for mobile work to full-size trenching tools for serious excavation, MyToolShed offers shovels engineered for durability and performance across construction, landscaping, and agricultural applications.

Applications

Shovels are essential tools across multiple trades and industries:

• Construction and groundworkers: Trenching, excavation, foundation work, and material handling
• Landscapers and gardeners: Soil movement, planting, edging, and general garden maintenance
• Electricians and utility workers: Cable laying, trench digging, and backfilling
• Agricultural workers: Mucking out, composting, and farm maintenance
• Drainage specialists: Installing drainage systems and soakaway construction
• Highways maintenance: Road repairs, pothole filling, and surface preparation
• DIY enthusiasts: Home improvement projects, fence installation, and landscaping work

Choosing The Right Shovels

Selecting the appropriate shovel depends on several key factors:

Blade shape: Round mouth shovels excel at penetrating hard ground and digging, whilst square mouth (taper mouth) shovels are ideal for scooping and moving loose materials like sand, gravel, or snow. Trenching shovels feature narrow blades for confined spaces and precise excavation work.

Construction material: All-steel shovels offer maximum durability for heavy-duty professional use, particularly on building sites. Fibreglass or wooden handles provide some shock absorption, whilst plastic shovels prevent material adhesion when moving concrete or sticky substances.

Handle length: Standard length handles (around 710-1200mm) suit most applications, whilst longer handles provide increased leverage for deep digging. Shorter handles offer better control in confined spaces. D-grip or T-grip handles enhance comfort during prolonged use.

Specialised features: Insulated shovels are essential when working near live cables or electrical installations. Folding shovels suit mobile workers requiring compact storage, whilst forged steel blades deliver superior strength for demanding applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a shovel and a spade?

Shovels typically feature a scooped blade with raised sides, designed for moving and lifting materials. Spades have flatter blades with sharp edges, intended for cutting and slicing through soil. Shovels are better for shifting loose materials, whilst spades excel at precise digging and edging work.

How do I maintain my shovel?

Clean your shovel after each use to remove soil and debris. Store in a dry location to prevent rust. Periodically sharpen the blade edge with a file, oil metal components, and check handle fixings are secure. Wooden handles benefit from occasional treatment with linseed oil to prevent splitting.

Are insulated shovels necessary for all groundwork?

Insulated shovels are essential when working near underground electrical cables or in areas where contact with live electricity is possible. For general landscaping and garden work, standard shovels are suitable. Always follow utility company guidelines and use appropriate detection equipment before excavating.