brick trowel
Definition
Noun: A brick trowel is a hand tool used by masons (bricklayers) for spreading, shaping, and smoothing mortar or concrete when laying bricks, blocks, or stones. It typically has a flat, pointed steel blade and a handle.
Usage
The brick trowel is the primary tool for applying and manipulating the mortar bed between masonry units. It is used to pick up mortar from a board, spread it, and then "butter" the ends of bricks before placing them.
Examples
- The mason expertly loaded mortar onto his brick trowel before spreading it on the foundation.
- A good quality brick trowel is essential for laying a straight and level course of bricks.
- She used the pointed tip of the brick trowel to remove excess mortar from the joints.
Advanced Usage
- Breaking a brick: While not its primary purpose, the heel (back) of a brick trowel can sometimes be used to score and snap bricks when a hammer isn't available.
- Tool terminology: The act of using this tool is called "troweling." The specific shape and size of the blade (e.g., London pattern, Philadelphia pattern) can vary based on regional preferences and the mason's trade.
Variants and Related Words
- Mason's trowel: A general term that is often synonymous with brick trowel.
- Pointing trowel: A much smaller trowel with a triangular or pointed blade, used for detailed repair work and filling (pointing) joints.
- Margin trowel: A small, rectangular-bladed trowel used for working in tight spaces and for small patching jobs.
- Gauging trowel: A small trowel with a rounded tip, used by plasterers.
Synonyms
- Mason's trowel
- Bricklayer's trowel
Related Phrases
- To trowel mortar: To apply mortar using a brick trowel.
- He troweled the mortar evenly along the wall.
- Laying bricks: The primary activity for which a brick trowel is used.
- Laying bricks requires skill with a trowel.
Noun
-
a trowel used in masonry
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