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If you've ever tried to lay a straight course of bricks with a blunt trowel or struggled to get a clean joint with the wrong jointer, you know tools can feel like an extension of your hands. Masonry and brick tools aren't flashy, but they shape the outcome of every wall, path, and repair job. Think of great tools like a good pair of shoes: they protect you, make the work feel easier, and carry you further without pain.
Masonry tools cover everything from the simple brick trowel and pointing tool to larger kit like mortar mixers and brick saws. If you’re a DIYer fixing a garden wall or a tradesperson building a fence, the right kit helps you work quicker, neater, and with less waste. We'll walk through the essentials, where to buy them in the UK, and how to pick the best options for your budget.
At a minimum you'll want tools for cutting, shaping, laying, and finishing brick and mortar: trowels, brick hammers, bolsters, joint rakers, jointers, levels, string lines, and mixing equipment. Accessories like gloves, knee pads, and a sturdy wheelbarrow also matter. Each tool has a role like players on a team—left alone they’re fine, but together they win the match.
Whether you’re starting a garden project or refurbishing a chimney, some tools are non-negotiable. Below I break them down so you can build a shopping list with confidence.
The brick trowel is the heart of bricklaying. Common sizes you’ll see are around 10-inch to 12-inch blades—pick one that feels balanced in your hand. Pointing trowels (smaller, about 5-inch to 6-inch) are for patching and fine work. Look for stainless or carbon steel blades for longevity and a comfortable handle for long sessions.
Need to chop bricks or split blocks? A brick hammer and bolster chisel are your go-to. These tools help shape bricks to size without a messy saw. Hammers are typically 16-ounce to 24-ounce head weights—choose based on how much control versus impact you prefer.
Joint finishers and rakers create crisp mortar profiles, which not only look better but shed water more effectively. Jointers come in sizes to match the mortar joint width—common picks are 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch profiles. A clean finish can be the difference between a wall that looks amateur and one that looks like it was done by a pro.
Accuracy matters. A 4-foot or 6-foot spirit level and a strong mason’s line with a line block are essential for straight courses. Choose cast-aluminium or heavy-duty plastic for durability—these tools keep your work honest and true.
For mortar, a paddle mixer or a rotating barrel mixer speeds things up. If you only do small jobs, a hand-held paddle attached to a 1,200 to 1,500 RPM drill is fine. Wheelbarrows sized around 6 to 8 cubic feet are the usual choice for moving mortar or bricks on site—look for a steel tray and pneumatic tyre for comfort.
Now that you know what to shop for, where should you go? Here are reliable UK options that cover the range from budget to pro-grade equipment. Each has strengths depending on whether you’re a DIYer, a weekend warrior, or a tradesperson needing bulk supplies.
Screwfix is a go-to for many tradespeople—stocking a wide range of brick tools, from trowels and jointers to mixers and spirit levels. They often have good own-brand options for budget buys plus premium brands if you want higher durability. Click-and-collect and stores across the UK make it handy for last-minute needs.
Wickes caters well to DIYers and small trade teams. You'll find beginner-friendly kits, bricklaying accessories, and useful bundles like brick tool sets that include a trowel, pointing tool, and hammer. Prices are competitive and there are often seasonal promotions on outdoor building supplies.
B&Q is strong on accessibility and range. They stock brick tools for home projects, as well as larger items like concrete mixers and wheelbarrows. If you prefer seeing tools in person before buying, B&Q's large stores make inspection easy.
Toolstation mirrors Screwfix in offering trade-focused ranges with fast delivery and good availability. Their brick tools section typically includes specialist jointers and finishing tools you might not find at every general retailer.
For professional builders, these merchant wholesalers are staples. They offer bulk buying, pro-grade brands, and specialist tools such as brick saws and pneumatic equipment. Account holders and regular buyers benefit from trade discounts and dedicated support.
Selco combines trade-level stock with regional branches. If you need both quantity and quality, Selco is worth checking—especially for larger tool orders or when you want a mix of brand-name and own-brand options.
For convenience and wide selection, Amazon UK and eBay are handy. You can compare user reviews and often find bundles or minor brands at lower prices. Be cautious with sellers—check ratings, delivery times, and returns to avoid disappointments.
Picking a trowel or mortar mixer isn't just about price. A few sensible checks make sure you buy something that lasts and feels good to use.
A good tool feels like an extension of your arm. If a trowel is too heavy it fatigues you; if it's too light it can feel flimsy. Test the balance by holding it where the handle meets the blade—the tool should feel steady, not blade-heavy.
Carbon steel blades are tough and retain an edge; stainless steel resists rust better. A polished finish helps mortar release from the blade, reducing build-up. Consider the environment—if the tool will often get wet, stainless may be worth the extra.
Handles come in wood, plastic, or rubber grips. Wood gives a traditional feel and can be more comfortable for long sessions; synthetic grips can reduce vibration and are easier to keep clean. Try before you buy if possible.
For trowels, 10-inch to 12-inch blades suit most tasks; smaller trowels handle tight spots. For jointers, match the tool width to your mortar joint. If you plan on cutting bricks, make sure your hammer or chisel is rated for the job.
Established brands often offer better warranties and customer support. For tools you use daily, such as spirit levels and mixers, paying a bit more for reliability pays off in the long run.
Ask yourself: will this tool be used occasionally or every day? Pro-grade tools cost more upfront but last longer and often provide superior ergonomics. For occasional repairs, a cheaper kit might be perfectly adequate.
Online reviews give a real-world sense of durability and comfort. Use comparison sites to spot price differences across UK sellers before you buy—sometimes the same trowel will vary considerably in price between retailers.
Every builder’s kit evolves. If you’re starting, focus on a few quality basics: one reliable trowel, a pointing trowel, a jointer, a 4-foot level, and protective gear. As work gets heavier, add a mixer, a brick saw, and pro-grade finishing tools. Think of it as upgrading from a bicycle to a motorbike—start simple, then invest as your needs and skills grow.
Spend on things that take the most punishment: mixers, saws, and spirit levels. Save on items you use rarely or can replace cheaply, like disposable brushes or low-cost joint rakes. A mid-range trowel with a good handle often offers the best value.
A bit of care adds years to your kit. Clean mortar off immediately, oil moving parts, sharpen chisels when needed, and store tools dry to prevent rust. Think of maintenance like regular servicing on a car—small checks save big expenses later.
Rinse tools before mortar hardens, use a wire brush for stubborn bits, and keep blades lightly oiled to prevent rust. Hang tools on a wall or place them in a dry toolbox—avoiding damp conditions preserves handles and metal alike.
Never underestimate safety. Safety goggles, heavy-duty gloves, dust masks, and hearing protection are essential, especially when cutting or using power mixers. A sturdy pair of boots with a reinforced toe and a hard hat on a busy site are simple investments that protect both your body and your livelihood.
Line blocks and a good mason’s line speed up alignment. A magnetic level with a 4-foot length can double-check verticals and horizontals quickly. Using the right accessories is like adding a turbocharger to your workflow—small boosts yield big efficiency gains.
If you’re unsure what to buy, visit a trade counter or specialist store and ask for a demo. Trade merchants like Travis Perkins or Jewson and builders’ warehouses such as Selco will often advise you and recommend the best brands for heavy use. Online communities, forums, and video tutorials also help you see tools in action before committing to a purchase.
Choosing the right masonry and brick tools in the UK is about balancing your budget, the frequency of use, and the quality you need. From Screwfix and Wickes for accessible options, to Travis Perkins and Jewson for trade-grade gear, there are plenty of retailers to fit every requirement. Invest in a few good tools, care for them, and they’ll repay you with faster work, neater finishes, and fewer headaches. Ready to get your hands dirty? Start with the essentials, learn as you go, and upgrade thoughtfully—your future self will thank you.
| Brick Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Eclipse 22639r 9 × 3 Guarded Brick Cutting Chisel | £ 3,81 | |
| Faithfull Faibb3 75mm Brick Bolster | £ 4,88 | |
| Xtrade X0900259 Brick Bolster 75mm | £ 6,94 | |
| Xtrade X0900169 3.5lb Diamond Splitting Wedge | £ 9,40 | |
| Xtrade X0900138 Aluminium Hawk 12 | £ 10,49 | |
| Eclipse 22649r 9 × 4 Guarded Brick Cutting Chisel | £ 11,71 | |
| Xtrade X0900144 Bricklaying & Plastering Set | £ 11,73 | |
| Stanley 418327 Fatmax Brick Bolster Chisel 75mm With Guard | £ 14,88 | |
| Faithfull Faibl Brick Lifter | £ 19,09 | |
| Ck Bolster Chisels Display | £ 215,52 |
