As a professional builder, you should always have the essential tools on hand. There are times when having the right masonry tools and equipment will allow you to get more done in less time.

In other cases, they determine whether or not workers can proceed without danger. It is essential to have a complete set of masonry tools, whether you’re a large company or a small independent contractor.

A mason should be familiar with all the different types of tools that are used when setting a stone or brick structure.

What Are The Commonly Used Masonry Tools?

Masonry tools are used by builders, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts to work with materials such as brick, stone, and concrete. Some of the most commonly used masonry tools include:

1. Brick Trowel: 

A brick trowel is a flat, pointed tool with a handle that is used by masons to spread and level mortar when laying bricks or other masonry units. It typically has a long, thin blade made of steel or other durable material and a handle that is designed for a comfortable grip.

Brick trowels come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the size of the bricks or masonry units being used and the preference of the mason. The blade of the trowel is used to scoop up mortar from a bucket or mortar board and spread it onto the surface of the brick or masonry unit.

The pointed end of the blade is used to shape the mortar and to press it into any gaps between the bricks. A skilled mason can use a brick trowel to create a neat, level, and sturdy walls that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

2. Masonry Chisel:

A masonry chisel is a hand tool that is used by masons and other tradespeople to cut, shape, and trim bricks, stones, and other masonry materials. It typically has a sharp, straight blade that is designed to withstand heavy use and resist chipping or breaking. Masonry chisels come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the task at hand and the preferences of the user.

Masonry chisels are used for a variety of purposes, such as creating a smooth finish on a brick or stone surface, shaping a corner or edge, removing excess material, or creating a decorative pattern. To use a masonry chisel, the user places the blade on the surface of the material to be worked on and strikes it with a hammer or mallet to chip away at the material.

The chisel is then moved along the surface to create the desired shape or pattern. Masonry chisels require skill and practice to use effectively, and it is important to wear appropriate protective gear, such as safety glasses and gloves, to avoid injury.

3. Masonry Hammer:

A masonry hammer, also known as a brick hammer or a stone hammer, is a specialized hand tool used by masons and other tradespeople for breaking and shaping masonry materials such as bricks, stones, and concrete blocks.

A masonry hammer typically has a flat face on one end and a chisel-shaped edge on the other. The flat face is used for striking and breaking up masonry materials, while the chisel-shaped edge is used for cutting and shaping them.

Masonry hammers are designed to be durable and sturdy, with a head that is made from high-quality steel or other durable materials. They also typically have a handle that is made from wood or another shock-absorbing material, which helps to reduce the impact on the user’s hands and wrists.

Masonry hammers come in different sizes and weights, depending on the task at hand and the preferences of the user. They are often used in conjunction with other masonry tools such as chisels and mallets to create precise and detailed shapes in bricks and other masonry materials.

It is important to use a masonry hammer safely and wear appropriate protective gear, such as safety glasses and gloves, to avoid injury.

4. Masonry Saw: 

A masonry saw is a specialized tool used by masons, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts to cut through masonry materials such as bricks, stones, and concrete blocks. It typically features a diamond-tipped blade that is designed to withstand the abrasiveness of masonry materials and cut through them with precision and ease.

Masonry saws can be powered by electricity, gasoline, or air and come in a range of sizes, from handheld models to larger walk-behind saws for cutting large masonry blocks. Some masonry saws also have a water cooling system that helps to keep the blade cool during use, which helps to prevent overheating and damage to the blade.

Masonry saws are used for a variety of purposes, such as cutting bricks to size, making precise cuts in stones for decorative purposes, and creating openings in masonry walls for doors and windows. They require skill and practice to use effectively and it is important to wear appropriate protective gear, such as safety glasses and gloves, to avoid injury.

5. Masonry Level: 

A masonry level is a tool used by masons and other tradespeople to ensure that masonry walls and surfaces are level and plumb. It consists of a long, straight, and rigid body that is made of aluminium or another lightweight and durable material, with one or more vials filled with liquid and a bubble.

The body of the level is placed against a masonry surface, and the bubble in the vial indicates whether the surface is level or plumb. If the bubble is centred between the lines on the vial, the surface is level or plumb. If the bubble is off-centre, it indicates that the surface is not level or plumb and adjustments need to be made.

Masonry levels come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the task at hand and the preferences of the user. They are often used in conjunction with other masonry tools such as trowels and jointers to create precise and level walls and surfaces.

It is important to use a masonry level safely and accurately to ensure that the finished product is structurally sound and visually appealing.

6. Jointing Tool: 

A jointing tool, also known as a jointer, is a tool used by masons and other tradespeople to create smooth and uniform joints between bricks, stones, and other masonry materials. It typically consists of a long, flat blade that is made of steel or another durable material, with a handle at one end.

Jointing tools come in different shapes and sizes, depending on the type of joint being created and the preferences of the user. Some jointers have a curved or rounded blade for creating concave joints, while others have a straight blade for creating flat joints.

To use a jointing tool, the user applies pressure to the blade and moves it along the joint between the masonry materials to create a smooth and uniform surface. This process helps to seal the joint and prevent moisture from seeping in, which can cause damage and weaken the structure over time.

Jointing tools require skill and practice to use effectively, and it is important to choose the right tool for the job and to wear appropriate protective gear, such as safety glasses and gloves, to avoid injury.

7. Masonry Drill: 

A masonry drill is a powerful tool used by masons, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts to drill holes in masonry materials such as bricks, stones, and concrete blocks. It typically has a carbide-tipped or diamond-tipped drill bit that is designed to withstand the hardness and abrasiveness of masonry materials and to create precise and clean holes.

Masonry drills can be powered by electricity, battery, or compressed air and come in different sizes, depending on the diameter of the hole being drilled. Some masonry drills also have a hammering function that helps to break up the masonry material as the drill bit rotates, which can help to speed up the drilling process.

Masonry drills are used for a variety of purposes, such as installing anchors, screws, and fasteners in masonry walls and surfaces, creating openings for pipes and wires, and making holes for decorative purposes.

They require skill and practice to use effectively and it is important to choose the right drill bit for the job and to wear appropriate protective gear, such as safety glasses and gloves, to avoid injury.

8. Mortar Mixer:

A mortar mixer is a machine used by masons and other tradespeople to mix mortar, a type of cement-based paste used to bond bricks, stones, and other masonry materials together. It typically consists of a large mixing drum or container that is mounted on a stand, with a motor or engine that powers the mixing mechanism.

Mortar mixers come in different sizes and configurations, depending on the amount of mortar being mixed and the preferences of the user. Some mortar mixers have a tilting drum that can be emptied easily, while others have a non-tilting drum that requires the user to scoop out the mixed mortar.

To use a mortar mixer, the user adds the required amount of dry mortar mix and water to the mixing drum and starts the mixing mechanism. The mixer rotates the drum and mixes the mortar until it reaches a uniform consistency, which is essential for creating strong and durable masonry structures.

Mortar mixers are used for a variety of purposes, such as mixing mortar for bricklaying, stone masonry, and plastering. They require skill and practice to use effectively, and it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and to wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, to avoid injury.

9. Masonry Brush: 

A masonry brush is a tool used by masons and other tradespeople to apply coatings, such as sealers and paints, to masonry surfaces such as brick, stone, and concrete. It typically consists of a handle and bristles made of natural or synthetic materials such as horsehair, nylon, or polypropylene.

Masonry brushes come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the type of coating being applied and the preferences of the user. Some brushes have long bristles that are ideal for reaching into tight spaces, while others have shorter bristles that are better for applying coatings to larger surfaces.

To use a masonry brush, the user dips the bristles into the coating material and applies it to the masonry surface in even strokes, using a back-and-forth or circular motion. This process helps to ensure that the coating is applied evenly and thoroughly, which is important for achieving a professional-looking finish and protecting the masonry surface from damage.

Masonry brushes require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them in good condition and to prevent the buildup of dried coating material. It is also important to choose the right type of brush for the job and to wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, to avoid contact with the coating material.

10. Tuck Pointing Tool: 

A tuck-pointing tool is a specialized tool used by masons and other tradespeople to repair and maintain masonry structures such as brick walls and chimneys. It typically consists of a metal blade with two pointed ends, called “tuck points,” that is used to remove old mortar and create a clean, even groove in the joint between the bricks or stones.

Tuck-pointing tools come in different shapes and sizes, depending on the size of the joint and the preferences of the user. Some tuck-pointing tools have a V-shaped blade for creating a narrow, pointed groove, while others have a flat blade for creating a wider, more rectangular groove.

To use a tuck-pointing tool, the user first removes the old, damaged mortar from the joint using a chisel or other masonry tool. The tuck pointing tool is then used to create a clean, even groove in the joint, which is then filled with fresh mortar using a pointing trowel or other tools.

Tuck pointing is an important part of masonry maintenance and repair, as it helps to ensure that the joints between the bricks or stones are strong and water-tight, which is essential for preventing moisture damage and preserving the integrity of the structure.

Tuckpointing requires skill and practice to master, and it is important to choose the right tools and materials for the job and to wear appropriate protective gear, such as safety glasses and gloves, to avoid injury.

Conclusion

In conclusion, masonry tools are essential for any mason or tradesperson who works with brick, stone, and other masonry materials. The tools range from hand-held tools such as brick trowels, masonry chisels, hammers, saws, levels, jointing tools, and brushes, to power tools such as mortar mixers, drills, and saws.

Each tool has its specific function and is designed to perform a particular task in the construction, repair, and maintenance of masonry structures. Choosing the right tools and using them correctly is essential for achieving professional-looking results and ensuring the durability and integrity of the masonry work.

It is also important to follow safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective gear when working with masonry tools to avoid injury.

For more masonry tools, check out the masonry tools name list.