The main tool of the bricklayer is his trowel. For most of the day it becomes an extension of his arm. It's no wonder then that a bricky is very particular in choosing what type of brick trowel to use. There are endless combos of brand, size, blade pattern, and handle types. Every Brickie has his favorite and some trowels clearly rise above the rest. Check out the article, What is the best brand of brick trowel? It looks at a trowels balance, durability, comfort, flexibility and value.
How though do you select a trowels size, pattern or handle type? Well these options generally depend on what the trowel is being used for. It is not uncommon for a bricklayer to have a number of different trowels in his Bricklaying bucket.
Brick trowels are normally between 10 to 13 inches long and 5 to 6 inches wide.
One report tested the spreading time of various sizes of masonry trowels. The fastest trowel for brick work was an 11 inch. While the fastest trowel for concrete cinder blocks was shared by the 12 and 13 inch.
A smaller trowel will make it easier to keep clean and tidy, as well as keep off the line. So if you are a new apprentice, I would recommend going for a smaller trowel.
Keep in mind that a trowel will wear down, so as you get more experienced, it's a good idea to buy larger than really wanted. After six months of braking in, it is perfect.
There are two main patterns to choose from, the Philadelphia pattern shown on the left in the above photo or the London pattern shown on the right. Many companies make variants of these, for example Marshalltown make a Narrow London and also a Wide London.
Selecting a pattern is based on preference. A Philadelphia can be loaded with more mud, making it ideal for block work. A London forces the mud to be loaded further forward on the trowel making it great for laying bricks.
 |
| Pic: wrose.com |
Handle
Most handles are made from soft grip, leather, wood or plastic. Shown above are the W.Rose range of handles. Each has it's benefits and downfalls.
Update: Both Marshalltown and W.Rose have put out Cork Handles see the Review Here
1 Soft Grip:
They are the most common handle these days and are often given a slick trademarked name. The most comfortable handle and almost a must if you wear gloves. It will wear out reasonably quickly, but these handles still will be what I recommend.
2 Leather:
By far the best looking handles, they have that real vintage look and they are comfortable but unfortunately they will not last long.
3 Wooden:
The traditional handle. It wears really well, but is not the most comfortable and can split with moisture.
4 Plastic:
Not very common. They have excellent durability, but can look tacky and are slippery when wet.
Want to see what trowels I personally use-
Check it out Here
Or Here for Other Items found in a Bricklayer First Tool Kit
1 Soft Grip:
They are the most common handle these days and are often given a slick trademarked name. The most comfortable handle and almost a must if you wear gloves. It will wear out reasonably quickly, but these handles still will be what I recommend.
2 Leather:
By far the best looking handles, they have that real vintage look and they are comfortable but unfortunately they will not last long.
3 Wooden:
The traditional handle. It wears really well, but is not the most comfortable and can split with moisture.
4 Plastic:
Not very common. They have excellent durability, but can look tacky and are slippery when wet.
Want to see what trowels I personally use-
Check it out Here
Or Here for Other Items found in a Bricklayer First Tool Kit
