Buttering Trowel

What Is a Plastering Trowel and What Does It Do?

A plastering trowel is a basic tool for builders, used to apply, spread and level mortar to an even surface. There are versions for rough work when throwing on the first coat and for fine work when finishing the surface, so walls and floors end up flat and true to construction standards.

Types of Plastering Trowels and Their Uses

Which trowel to use depends on the stage of work and the material. In general they can be grouped by use as follows:

• Loading trowel: for scooping mortar and spreading the first coat onto the wall. Available with thin and thick blades to suit the amount of mortar being applied.
• Pointing trowel: for detail work in tight spots, or for cutting and shaping crisp mortar corners.
• Gypsum trowel: usually lightweight aluminum, used to apply gypsum plaster or thin-coat skim compounds for a smooth wall finish.
• Wooden float: for working the mortar face to the desired texture or for initial leveling.

How to Choose the Right Plastering Trowel Size

The size and material of the trowel directly affect the speed and quality of the work, especially when weighing price against the durability of plastic, aluminum or steel.

Usage Tips and Maintenance

To make a plastering trowel last, clean mortar off the blade immediately after use, because dried mortar leaves the face uneven and marks the plaster you apply. Leading brands such as INGCO, HACHI and MIXPRO typically design their handles to fit the hand and reduce fatigue during long working sessions. Checking that the blade face is still flat and straight before every job helps avoid rework later.