Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission if you buy through our links, at no extra cost to you.
The short answer: Clean your brick trowel immediately after use with a stiff brush and water, dry it thoroughly, and apply a light coat of oil to the blade. For long-term storage, keep it in a dry place and periodically sharpen the edges. Regular maintenance prevents rust, keeps the handle comfortable, and ensures your trowel remains a reliable tool for years.
A brick trowel is a mason’s everyday workhorse. It spreads mortar, cuts bricks, and shapes joints. But with constant exposure to wet mortar, sand, and water, it faces a lot of wear. If you neglect cleaning, mortar hardens on the blade, making it less effective and harder to use. Worse, moisture can cause rust, compromising the blade’s strength and edge. A well-maintained trowel not only lasts longer but also performs better, giving you cleaner cuts and smoother spreads. Plus, a clean trowel is safer to handle, as built-up mortar can make it heavier and harder to control.
Step 1: Rinse Immediately As soon as you finish your work, rinse the trowel with clean water to remove loose mortar. If you wait, the mortar dries and becomes difficult to remove.
Step 2: Scrub with a Stiff Brush Use a stiff bristle brush (a wire brush works well) to scrub the blade and handle. Focus on the edges and any crevices where mortar might hide. For stubborn dried mortar, you can soak the trowel in water for a few minutes to soften it.
Step 3: Dry Thoroughly After cleaning, dry the entire trowel with a clean cloth. Pay special attention to the metal parts and any joints. Moisture left on the tool will lead to rust, especially if stored in a damp environment.
Step 4: Apply a Light Coat of Oil Once dry, apply a thin layer of machine oil, mineral oil, or a rust-inhibiting spray to the blade. This creates a barrier against moisture. Wipe off any excess to avoid attracting dust.
Step 5: Check and Tighten Inspect the handle to ensure it is securely attached. If it’s loose, tighten the rivets or screws. A loose handle can be dangerous during use.
Over time, the edge of your trowel may dull, especially if you use it to cut bricks or scrape surfaces. A sharp edge is essential for clean work. You can sharpen the edge with a file or a bench grinder, but be careful not to overheat the metal, which can weaken it. If you notice rust spots, remove them with fine-grit sandpaper or a rust eraser. After removing rust, treat the area with a rust converter to prevent it from returning.
For the handle, if it’s wooden, apply a coat of linseed oil periodically to keep it from drying out and cracking. If it’s plastic or rubber, simply clean with soapy water and avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the material.
Proper storage is just as important as cleaning. Store your trowel in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid leaving it in a damp toolbox or on a concrete floor where moisture can seep in. You can hang it on a pegboard or keep it in a dedicated tool bag. If you live in a humid climate, consider adding silica gel packs to your tool storage. When storing for a long period, give the blade a generous coat of oil or use a protective wax.
Also, avoid using your trowel as a pry bar or scraper on hard surfaces, as this can break the handle or damage the blade. Always use the correct tool for the job.
One big mistake is leaving mortar to dry on the trowel. It becomes a nightmare to remove and can even scratch the blade. Another is washing it with a pressure washer, which can force water into the handle and cause swelling or corrosion. Also, never put your trowel in a dishwasher; the heat and detergents will damage it. Finally, do not store it wet, even for a short time. Always dry it first.
If you’re looking to upgrade or replace your trowel, it’s worth checking our brick trowel buying guide to find a durable model that fits your needs. A quality trowel, paired with proper care, will serve you well for many projects.
When selecting a brick trowel, consider the type of work you do most. A Philadelphia trowel has a pointed tip and is ideal for general masonry and spreading mortar. A London trowel features a rounded tip, which some masons prefer for scooping and placing mortar. The blade length typically ranges from 10 to 14 inches; longer blades cover more area but can be heavier. Handle material also matters: wooden handles offer a traditional feel and absorb shock, while rubber or plastic handles provide better grip in wet conditions. Weight is another factor; a lighter trowel reduces fatigue during long days, but a heavier one can help with momentum when spreading stiff mortar. Based on owner feedback, many professionals choose a mid-range trowel with a forged steel blade for durability, while budget options may suffice for occasional DIY projects. Always check the balance by holding the trowel; it should feel comfortable and not tip forward excessively.
A new trowel often has a factory finish that can cause mortar to stick. To break it in, start by washing it with warm soapy water to remove any protective oils. Then, use it on a few practice mortar boards to develop a patina. Some masons lightly sand the blade with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface, but avoid over-sanding as it can remove the protective layer. Another method is to rub the blade with a cut potato or onion; the natural acids can help create a non-stick surface. After each use, clean and oil as usual. Over time, the blade will darken and become smoother, making mortar release easier. Never use a grinder to break in a new trowel, as it can remove too much material and weaken the blade.
Even with the best care, a trowel will eventually wear out. Signs that it’s time to replace include a blade that has become too thin from repeated sharpening, a cracked or loose handle that cannot be tightened, or deep pitting from rust that affects structural integrity. If the trowel no longer holds a sharp edge or if the blade bends easily, it’s time to retire it. A worn trowel can lead to poor work quality and safety hazards. For heavy professional use, a trowel might last a few years; for occasional use, it can last much longer. Keep an eye on the rivets and the heel of the blade, as these are common failure points. Upgrading to a higher-quality trowel from a reputable brand can be a worthwhile investment if you rely on it daily.
Q: How often should I oil my brick trowel?
A: After every cleaning session, especially if you use it regularly. A light coat each time is sufficient to prevent rust.
Q: Can I use vinegar to remove rust from my trowel?
A: Yes, soaking the blade in white vinegar overnight can soften rust, then scrub it off. Rinse and dry thoroughly afterward.
Q: What’s the best way to sharpen a brick trowel?
A: Use a flat file, working at the same angle as the existing bevel. Stroke away from your body, and finish with a honing stone for a smoother edge.
We don't accept free units or payment for placement. Our rankings combine verified manufacturer specifications, real owner feedback and availability, compared on one transparent S to C rubric.
Honesty note: We have not hands-on tested every product mentioned on this page. Where we have not personally used a product, any ranking referenced here is based on verified specs, aggregated owner feedback, availability and editorial comparison rather than a hands-on review.