There are a lot of trowels available. How do you know which one to choose?

A poor worker always blames his tools and there's much to be said for that. Professional tradesmen will always choose the best and often price doesn't come into it. Quality and comfort should always outweigh price

Trowels all look the same. What makes one better than another?

The best trowels are made from one piece of solid forged steel. This makes the trowel stonger and means it can be made with balance and flexibility. Modern ergonomic designs make the trowel more comfortable to use. A well balanced trowel allows the user greater control and reduces fatigue, which counts for a lot after a day on site.

Why are there so many different shapes and styles?

Trowels all have different uses and each tradesman will need a selection for his particular trade. Bricklayer's trowels have blades ranging from 10 inches to 13 inches. Pointing trowels vary from 5 inches to 6 inches, while plaster finishing trowels vary from 11 inches to 13 inches and are usually between 4 inches or 5 inches wide. Some designs are even available "broken-in". Cement finishing trowels are larger still, ranging from 12 inches to 20 inches. In general, there's a trend towards longer trowels; with 14 inches becoming more popular. A plasterer can work quicker, and thus earn more, with a bigger trowel.

What is the tang?

This is the backbone of a trowel, where the ultimate strength comes from. It runs through the blade and up into the handle. In premium trowels both the blade and tang are forged from one piece of steel. This adds to the stability and durability. In lesser products the tang is welded to the blade, creating a join which can cause problems.

Are all brick trowels hardened?

Some trowels are only hardened on one edge, or not at all! The best trowels are hardened throughout which adds to their durability and allows them to be used , effectively by either a left or right handed brick layer.

Handles seem to be important. What are the choices?

The market is split 30/70 wood/soft handles. Wooden handles are still popular but the trend is for soft-feel handles. Soft handles are a design improvement and provide ultimate comfort. Over time they even mould to the grip so there's no mistaking which tools belong to whom!

Are there any differences in brick trowel patterns?

There are three patterns: London, Wide London and Philadelphia (the most popular). They all do the same job so it's all down to personal preference and, believe it or not, regionality. The London varieties are more popular in the south of England and southern Ireland, but in Northern Ireland, you wouldn't be seen with anything other than a Philadelphia.

What does a builder mean when he refers to breaking in his tools?

Just compare it with breaking in your shoes! Once the blade of a trowel has been broken in, it is more comfortable to use, giving greater speed. Many plasterers may have three or four trowels in use at any one time so they can be broken in at different speeds. Some products are available already broken in and are proving very popular.

Why don't manufacturers do something about packaging for trowels?

Looking professional is important to everyone so some manufacturers use cardboard or plastic sleeves. But some still don't package their trowels because they want the user to feel the weight and balance of the trowel, without it being compromised by the packaging.

Can brick trowels cut bricks?

They're not supposed to but they can sometimes be used. Trowels with hardened blades are best, but there are proper brick saws that will do a better job and leave the trowel to do what it was designed to do: lay the perfect wall.