Are you a professional plasterer or a DIY enthusiast keen to take on some plastering projects?
If so, the plastering trowel is one of the most important tools in your kit. But with so many options available, how do you know which trowel will best suit your needs?
In this article, we’ll discuss the various types of plastering trowels available and their respective uses so that you can make an informed choice.
Let’s get straight to the point
The article discusses different types of plastering trowels and their uses, highlighting the importance of choosing the right tool for a smooth, professional finish.
Key types include the stainless steel trowel for durability and pest resistance, pointing trowel for small, precise tasks, finishing trowel for smoothing surfaces, window trowel for tight spaces, gauging trowel for mixing small batches, corner trowel for 90-degree angles, and bucket trowel for transferring plaster.
Selecting the correct size, like a versatile 14-inch trowel, is also crucial for different plastering tasks.
What Exactly Is A Trowel, And Why Is It Important?
Before we dive into the types of trowels, let’s first define what a trowel is and why it’s essential.
A plastering trowel is a flat, rectangular tool used for smoothing and spreading materials like plaster on surfaces.
It typically features a handle made from wood, plastic, or rubber and a blade made from stainless steel, carbon steel, or tempered steel.
The key to achieving a flawless plastering finish lies in selecting the right trowel for the job.
Not only do trowels play a crucial role in creating a smooth and even surface, but they can also contribute to making your home more durable by preventing imperfections that could lead to pest infestations.
The Role of Stainless Steel Trowels
One highly recommended option is a stainless steel trowel. These trowels are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion, ensuring long-lasting use.
They also have a polished surface that minimises the risk of plaster harbouring pests. Using stainless steel trowels ensures not only a professional-grade finish but also contributes to a pest-free environment.
Different Types Of Trowels
There are various types of trowels available, each designed for a specific function.
Whether you’re a tradesperson or a hobbyist, choosing the correct trowel can significantly affect the quality of your plastering work. Let’s explore the different types and their uses.
Pointing Trowel
The pointing trowel is commonly used by professionals to repair brick or stonework.
It’s small and effective for filling tiny cracks or repairing mortar joints. Its compact size also makes it ideal for working on intricate details like decorative cornices.
Advantages of Pointing Trowels
- Precision: The small blade allows for highly accurate work, making it perfect for small, intricate plastering tasks.
- Easy to Handle: Its lightweight and small size make it easy to control, especially in confined spaces.
Disadvantages of Pointing Trowels
- Limited Coverage: A pointing trowel is not suitable for covering large areas of plaster.
- Time-Consuming: Due to its small size, using a pointing trowel for larger jobs can be inefficient.
Finishing Trowel
A finishing trowel is designed to smooth and level the surface of plaster after it’s applied. It typically ranges in size from 8 to 14 inches and can either have a flexible or rigid blade.
Advantages of Finishing Trowels
- Smooth Finish: Ideal for achieving a smooth, polished look.
- Versatile: Available in various sizes, making them useful for both small and large projects.
Disadvantages of Finishing Trowels
- Multiple Passes Required: Achieving a perfect finish might require several passes.
- Skill Required: Beginners may need more time to master the finesse needed for a professional finish.
Window Trowel
The window trowel is specifically designed for working around windows and in confined areas. Its narrow blade allows for precise plaster application in tight spaces, such as around window frames.
Advantages of Window Trowels
- Precise Application: Perfect for applying plaster in narrow, hard-to-reach spaces.
- Lightweight and Easy to Control: Ideal for small, detailed work.
Disadvantages of Window Trowels
- Limited Use: Not suitable for large plastering projects.
- Skill Required for a Smooth Finish: Achieving a smooth surface in small spaces takes practice.
Gauging Trowel
The gauging trowel is a small, triangular-shaped trowel used primarily for mixing small batches of plaster and applying cement mortar in tight areas, such as corners. It’s essential for accurate mixing and is often used for more detailed work.
Advantages of Gauging Trowels
- Precise Mixing: Ideal for mixing small amounts of plaster or other materials.
- Lightweight and Versatile: Easy to handle and useful for various plastering tasks.
Disadvantages of Gauging Trowels
- Limited Use: Not designed for larger jobs or rough surfaces.
- Skill Required: Consistent mixing and application require practice.
Corner Trowel
Plastering corners can be tricky, but the corner trowel simplifies the process. Its triangular blade allows for a smooth finish in 90-degree corners.
Advantages of Corner Trowels
- Easy to Use in Corners: Ideal for finishing corners and other hard-to-reach areas.
- Time-Saving: Speeds up the corner plastering process.
Disadvantages of Corner Trowels
- Limited Use: Only useful for corners; not suitable for flat surfaces.
- Requires Skill: It can be challenging to achieve a smooth finish without experience.
Bucket Trowel
The bucket trowel is a larger tool designed for scooping plaster from a bucket and transferring it to a hawk or trowel. It’s also useful for mixing plaster directly in the bucket.
Advantages of Bucket Trowels
- Efficient: Speeds up the process of transferring plaster from the bucket to the working surface.
- Versatile: Can be used for both mixing and applying plaster.
Disadvantages of Bucket Trowels
- Heavy: When loaded with plaster, it can become heavy and difficult to manage.
- Limited Reach: Not ideal for high or awkward-to-reach places.
What Is The Best Trowel Size For Plastering?
When selecting a trowel size, consider the job’s scope. Plastering trowels typically range from 12 to 16 inches in length. For general use, a 14-inch trowel is a good middle ground, offering control while covering a substantial area.
- Longer Trowels: Allow for more plaster application but require more force and finesse.
- Shorter Trowels: Provide better control and are ideal for precision work on vertical surfaces.
Conclusion
Choosing the right plastering trowel is essential for achieving a smooth, professional finish on your plastering project.
Whether you’re working on fine details with a pointing trowel, smoothing large areas with a finishing trowel, or plastering around tight spaces with a window trowel, each trowel serves a specific purpose.
For Australian plasterers, whether professional or DIY, investing in a stainless steel trowel offers durability and pest resistance benefits.
The trowel you choose will significantly impact the quality of your work, so ensure you have the right tools in your kit to suit the job at hand.
Always consider the size of the trowel as well; a 14-inch trowel is a versatile option for most plastering jobs. However, having a selection of different types and sizes will ensure you’re prepared for any task.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use A Pointing Trowel For Finishing Plasterwork?
While a pointing trowel can be used for finishing plasterwork, there are better tools for the job. Finishing trowels are better suited for this task as they have a wider surface area and a smoother edge, allowing for smoother and more even coverage.
What Size Of Trowel Should I Use For Small Plastering Jobs?
For small plastering jobs, you can use a trowel with a blade size of 4-5 inches. This size of the trowel is ideal for spreading and smoothing plaster on small surfaces.
Can I Use A Pool Trowel For Outdoor Plastering?
Yes, you can use a pool trowel for outdoor plastering. Pool trowels are designed for finishing and smoothing concrete surfaces so that they can also be used for outdoor plastering.
However, choosing the right size and shape of pool trowel for the job is important to ensure that you get the best results.
How Do I Maintain My Plastering Trowels?
To keep your plastering trowels in good condition, it is important to clean them after each use and store them in a dry, cool place.
You can use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any dried plaster or debris from the blade, and you can also oil the blade to prevent rust.
Can I Use A Bucket Trowel For Mixing Plaster?
Yes, a bucket trowel can be used for mixing plaster. Its wide, flat blade is perfect for scooping and mixing plaster in a bucket. However, you should refrain from using a bucket trowel for applying plaster, as its shape needs to be better suited for this task.
