Faithfull Plugging Chisels

Faithfull Plugging Chisels at Tooled-Up.com

Faithfull has established itself as a trusted name in hand tools, and their range of plugging chisels exemplifies the brand's commitment to producing reliable, durable tools for professional tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts. Designed specifically for removing mortar from between bricks and masonry joints, Faithfull plugging chisels are engineered to withstand the demanding conditions of renovation work, repointing tasks, and general masonry repairs.

The Faithfull plugging chisel range available from Tooled-Up.com features robust construction with hardened and tempered steel blades that maintain their edge through repetitive impact work. Each chisel incorporates a mushroom head guard to protect the striking surface from damage caused by repeated hammer blows, significantly extending the tool's working life. These chisels are available in various blade widths to accommodate different joint sizes and masonry applications, making them versatile additions to any tradesperson's toolkit.

Whether you're tackling restoration projects on period properties, preparing walls for repointing, or removing damaged mortar during repair work, Faithfull plugging chisels deliver the performance and durability required for professional results. Their ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue during extended use, whilst the precision-ground cutting edges ensure clean removal of mortar without damaging surrounding brickwork.

Why Choose Faithfull Plugging Chisels?

Faithfull has built a reputation spanning decades for producing tools that balance affordability with professional-grade performance. Their plugging chisels are manufactured from high-quality chrome vanadium steel, a material choice that provides exceptional strength and resistance to wear. The hardening and tempering process used in production creates blades that can withstand the repeated impact associated with chisel work without chipping, cracking, or mushrooming prematurely.

The integrated mushroom head guard is a standout feature that distinguishes Faithfull plugging chisels from basic alternatives. This protective collar prevents the striking end from spreading outwards after prolonged use – a common failure point in lower-quality chisels that creates dangerous sharp edges. This design consideration demonstrates Faithfull's understanding of real-world working conditions and their commitment to user safety and tool longevity.

Faithfull's quality control processes ensure consistency across their range, meaning tradespeople can rely on the same performance standards whether purchasing a single chisel or multiple sizes. The brand's extensive distribution network and strong presence in the UK market also means replacement tools are readily available when needed, minimising downtime on projects.

Who Uses Faithfull Plugging Chisels?

• Bricklayers and Stonemasons: For repointing work and mortar removal during masonry repairs
• General Builders: Essential for renovation projects requiring mortar joint preparation
• Restoration Specialists: Working on period properties where careful mortar removal is critical
• Roofing Contractors: For removing mortar from chimney stacks and brick detailing
• Maintenance Professionals: Addressing masonry repairs in commercial and residential properties
• Heritage Building Specialists: Requiring precise mortar removal without damaging historic brickwork
• DIY Enthusiasts: Tackling home improvement projects involving repointing and masonry work

Key Features of Faithfull Plugging Chisels

Faithfull plugging chisels incorporate several design features that enhance their performance and durability. The chrome vanadium steel construction provides the optimal combination of hardness for edge retention and toughness to resist impact damage. Each blade undergoes a precise hardening and tempering process that creates a cutting edge capable of efficiently breaking down mortar whilst remaining resistant to chipping.

The mushroom head guard serves dual purposes: protecting the striking surface and improving safety by preventing dangerous metal splinters from forming. This feature extends the usable life of the chisel significantly compared to unprotected alternatives. The blade geometry is specifically designed for plugging applications, with angles optimised for penetrating mortar joints without binding or deflecting.

Handle design varies across the range, with options including traditional wooden handles that absorb vibration and modern composite materials offering enhanced durability. The handles are securely fitted to prevent loosening during use, a critical safety feature for impact tools. Blade widths are precisely manufactured to industry-standard dimensions, ensuring compatibility with common joint sizes found in UK masonry construction.

Popular Faithfull Plugging Chisels

The Faithfull range at Tooled-Up includes plugging chisels in the most commonly required blade widths for professional masonry work. Standard sizes typically range from narrow 10mm blades for fine joint work through to wider 25mm options for larger mortar joints. The mid-range 16mm and 19mm chisels prove particularly popular with bricklayers and builders, offering versatility across most standard brickwork applications.

Faithfull also produces specialist variants including extra-long plugging chisels for reaching recessed joints and heavy-duty versions designed for particularly hard mortar types. Their cold chisels complement the plugging chisel range for applications requiring cutting through harder materials, whilst their pointing trowels complete the repointing toolkit.

Safety and Compliance

When using Faithfull plugging chisels, appropriate personal protective equipment is essential. Safety glasses or goggles conforming to BS EN 166 standards must be worn to protect against flying mortar fragments and potential metal particles. Heavy-duty work gloves help protect hands from vibration and sharp edges, whilst dust masks rated to HSE standards are recommended when working in enclosed spaces.

Regular inspection of the chisel is important for safe operation. Check the mushroom head guard remains intact and that the blade shows no signs of cracking or excessive wear. Replace chisels showing damage rather than continuing to use compromised tools. Always strike the chisel squarely with an appropriate club hammer or lump hammer, avoiding glancing blows that could cause the tool to slip or deflect dangerously.

Store plugging chisels in a dry environment to prevent corrosion, and keep cutting edges protected when not in use. Follow HSE guidelines for hand tool usage and ensure adequate lighting and stable working positions when undertaking masonry work.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size Faithfull plugging chisel do I need for standard brickwork?

For most standard UK brickwork with 10mm mortar joints, a 16mm or 19mm Faithfull plugging chisel provides optimal performance. These sizes allow effective mortar removal whilst minimising risk of damaging brick edges. Narrower 10mm chisels suit finer jointing work, whilst 25mm options work well for older properties with wider joints.

How do I maintain my Faithfull plugging chisel?

Keep the cutting edge sharp using a bench grinder or file, maintaining the original blade angle. Clean off mortar residue after each use and apply a light coating of oil to prevent rust. Inspect the mushroom head guard regularly and replace the chisel if it shows signs of excessive mushrooming or cracking. Store in a dry location away from moisture.

Can Faithfull plugging chisels be used with power tools?

No, Faithfull plugging chisels are designed exclusively for manual striking with a club hammer or lump hammer. Using them with power tools like demolition hammers can cause dangerous tool failure. For powered mortar removal, specialist SDS chisel bits designed for rotary hammers should be used instead.

What's the difference between a plugging chisel and a cold chisel?

Plugging chisels feature narrower blades specifically designed for removing mortar from joints without damaging surrounding brickwork. Cold chisels have wider, more robust blades intended for cutting through metal, concrete, and very hard materials. Whilst both are impact tools, using the correct chisel type for your specific application ensures better results and safer operation.

Are Faithfull plugging chisels suitable for professional daily use?

Yes, Faithfull plugging chisels are engineered for professional applications and regular use. The chrome vanadium steel construction and integrated mushroom head guards provide the durability required for daily site work. Many professional bricklayers and builders rely on Faithfull chisels as cost-effective tools that deliver reliable performance across demanding renovation and repointing projects.