Brick Trowels

About Brick Trowels

A brick trowel is an essential hand tool for any bricklayer, stonemason or builder working with masonry. Designed for spreading, shaping and smoothing mortar when laying bricks, blocks or stone, a quality brick trowel can make the difference between efficient, professional work and a frustrating day on site. At TooledUp, we stock a comprehensive range of brick trowels from trusted manufacturers including Marshalltown, Faithfull, RST and Tyzack, offering both traditional patterns and modern ergonomic designs to suit every tradesperson's preference.

Our selection includes the two main trowel patterns used in the UK: the London pattern and the Philadelphia pattern. The London pattern features a more rounded heel and is favoured by many British bricklayers for general brickwork, whilst the Philadelphia pattern has a straighter heel and narrower blade, often preferred for certain blockwork applications and by those who learned their trade using American-style techniques. We also stock wide London pattern trowels for faster mortar spreading on larger projects, as well as small trowel and square combination tools perfect for pointing work and repair jobs.

Modern brick trowels feature advanced materials and ergonomic handle designs that reduce hand fatigue during long shifts. From traditional wooden handles to contemporary soft-grip DuraSoft handles, our range caters to both traditionalists and those seeking the latest in hand tool comfort technology. Whether you're a time-served bricklayer, an apprentice just starting out, or a DIY enthusiast tackling garden walls and home improvement projects, choosing the right brick trowel will improve both your productivity and the quality of your finished work.

Jargon Buster

• London Pattern: The most common brick trowel design in the UK, featuring a rounded heel and symmetrical blade shape. Traditionally preferred by British bricklayers for standard brickwork and general masonry applications.
• Philadelphia Pattern: An alternative trowel design with a straighter heel and narrower blade profile, originating from American bricklaying traditions. Often chosen for blockwork and by tradespeople who prefer a lighter, more manoeuvrable tool.
• Heel: The rear section of the trowel blade where it meets the handle. The shape of the heel (rounded or straight) is the primary distinguishing feature between London and Philadelphia patterns.
• Tang: The metal extension that runs through the handle, connecting the blade to the grip. A full tang construction provides better durability and balance.
• Trowel and Square Small Tool: A compact combination tool featuring both a small trowel blade and a heel shaped for use as a small square, ideal for pointing work, repairs and detail work where a full-sized trowel would be too large.
• DuraSoft/Soft Grip Handle: Modern ergonomic handle designs featuring cushioned, textured grips that reduce hand fatigue and improve control, particularly valuable during extended use or in wet conditions.

Who Uses Brick Trowels?

• Bricklayers: Professional bricklayers use trowels daily for laying bricks, spreading mortar beds and creating clean jointing work on residential, commercial and civil engineering projects.
• Stonemasons: Both traditional and modern stonemasons rely on brick trowels for mortar application when building stone walls, restoration work and decorative masonry.
• General Builders: Multi-trade builders need quality trowels for occasional brickwork on extensions, repairs and general construction projects.
• Landscapers: Landscape contractors use brick trowels for building garden walls, retaining walls, raised beds and decorative masonry features.
• Pointing Specialists: Tradespeople specialising in repointing and restoration work use smaller trowels and combination tools for precision mortar application.
• Apprentices: Construction apprentices learning bricklaying skills require reliable, well-balanced trowels to develop proper technique.
• DIY Enthusiasts: Homeowners tackling garden walls, barbecues, planters and other masonry projects need appropriate trowels for achieving professional-looking results.

How to Choose the Right Brick Trowels

Pattern Selection: The choice between London and Philadelphia patterns is largely personal preference based on what feels comfortable and balanced in your hand. If you trained in the UK, you'll likely prefer the traditional London pattern, whilst those who favour a lighter tool might opt for a Philadelphia pattern. Many experienced bricklayers keep both styles for different applications.

Blade Size: Standard brick trowels typically range from 10 to 12 inches (250-300mm) in length. Larger blades hold more mortar, increasing productivity on straightforward work, whilst smaller trowels offer better control for detailed work and repairs. Wide London pattern trowels are excellent for high-volume commercial projects where speed is essential.

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. Consider handles with non-slip textures if you frequently work in wet conditions or early mornings when dew is present.

Blade Quality: Look for trowels made from high-carbon steel that's properly tempered for flexibility and durability. Premium brands like Marshalltown and Faithfull Prestige offer superior steel that maintains its shape and flexibility even after years of regular use, whilst budget options may bend or lose their temper more quickly.

Tang Construction: A solid tang that runs through the entire handle provides better balance and longevity. Check that the handle is securely attached with proper riveting or fastening, as a loose handle is both dangerous and frustrating on site.

Brand Reputation: Established manufacturers like Marshalltown, Faithfull, RST and Tyzack have decades of experience producing trowels to professional standards. Whilst budget brands may seem attractive initially, a quality trowel from a trusted manufacturer will outlast several cheaper alternatives and provide better performance throughout its working life.

Popular Accessories

• Brick Jointers and Pointers: Essential for finishing mortar joints to professional standards, creating weathertight, attractive brickwork.
• Bucket Trowels: Larger trowels designed for scooping mortar from buckets and mixing boards onto your brick trowel.
• Soft Brushes: For cleaning excess mortar and creating a neat finish on completed work.
• Gauging Trowels: Smaller trowels for mixing small quantities of mortar and working in confined spaces.
• Tool Bags and Belts: Purpose-built storage for carrying trowels and related tools safely around site.
• Spirit Levels and Line Levels: Essential for ensuring your brickwork remains true and level as you build.
• String Lines and Pins: For marking out courses and maintaining straight, level brickwork across longer spans.
• Hawk Boards: Handheld mortar boards that hold your working supply of mortar whilst laying bricks.
• Work Gloves: Quality protective gloves to shield hands from rough materials and reduce the impact of repetitive tool use.

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 is largely down to personal preference and what you're most comfortable using.

How do I care for and 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 buckets of water overnight, as this can damage both the blade and handle. With proper care, a quality brick trowel should last many years of professional use.

What size brick trowel should I buy as a beginner?

Most beginners find an 11-inch (280mm) London pattern trowel offers the best balance between mortar capacity and control whilst you develop your technique. This is the most versatile size for general brickwork. As you gain experience, you might choose to add a larger trowel for production work or smaller tools for pointing and repairs.

Are expensive brick trowels worth the investment?

Quality brick trowels from established manufacturers like Marshalltown and Faithfull Prestige use superior steel and construction methods that provide better balance, flexibility and longevity. For professional tradespeople using their trowel daily, a premium tool is definitely worthwhile and will outlast cheaper alternatives. DIY users working occasionally might find mid-range options from brands like RST or Faithfull standard range offer good value.

Can I use the same trowel for bricks and blocks?

Yes, brick trowels work perfectly well for both bricks and blocks. Some bricklayers prefer a Philadelphia pattern or slightly narrower blade for blockwork due to the larger units involved, but a standard London pattern trowel is suitable for both applications. The technique adjusts slightly depending on the material, but the same tool can handle both jobs effectively.