It’s no secret that having the right tools can make a world of difference when it comes to a specialist trade skill like plastering. The right tools save the users time on the job while also delivering a better result to give the project that extra touch of quality. From window trowels and snips to saws and drills, these must-have tools can get any plastering job done right.
We have gathered the top tools that any industrial professional and DIYer should have to complete any plastering job.
Window Trowel
There are some instances when you can’t use larger trowels around windows, like when the plaster is too brittle or if it has a huge crack. The best tool to use in situations like this is a window trowel. As its name suggests, it is specifically designed for use around windows.
It has a smaller blade that gives users better manoeuvrability across walls in tighter spaces, unlike other trowels. Window trowels are an exceptional tool for most residential projects.
Bucket Trowel
Any plasterer’s arsenal won’t be complete without a trusty bucket trowel. It is commonly used to scoop plaster up out of the mixing bucket and onto the plastering hawk. There’s much weight involved when mixing and transferring plaster onto a hawk. That is why you may need a strong and robust bucket trowel as part of your plastering toolkit.
Mortar Stand
Another must-have tool that can make your project a little bit easier is a mortar stand. It’s a small foldable table used to hold the plastering material or grout. With its size, a mortar stand gives users the ease of access while working. Don’t forget to include this simple accessory in your toolkit as it can make a big difference when working around with plaster.
Mixing Bucket
A mixing bucket has multiple uses. When working on a project, you’ll want a decent size bucket of at least 15 litres. This should be sufficient depending on your project requirements. Before you take on any plastering project, make sure to clean the bucket. Let it dry prior to mixing any materials.
Finishing Trowel
The finishing trowel is another important tool in a plasterer’s toolkit. This type of trowel uses a wider, flatter blade to smooth out the plaster more effectively and provide an exceptionally smooth finish to all surfaces. Of all the trowels in your toolkit, you will be using this one a lot, so don’t overlook this tool.
Most professionals invest in a high-quality finishing trowel that will last a long time. With a high-quality tool like this, they can take on as many projects without having to change tools that often.
Hawk
Have you got a plastering hawk yet? If not, you’re not going to get the job done right. This must-have tool is a portable surface where you hold your plaster material when on the move. With this must-have tool, you can apply your plaster quickly and easily across both walls and ceiling.
This tool comes in varying sizes. You’ll want a clean surface with rounded edges when working on medium-sized project to accomplish it in the highest standard possible.
Snips
Even the most experienced plasterers can’t get the job done without a reliable pair of snips. This tool is important in modern plastering and is primarily used to trim and cut the beading. Every professional plasterer needs a durable set of snips that can last a long time.
The ideal snips to use should have the ability to cut both popular types of beading metal, which are stainless steel and cold steel. Choose a pair of snips with longer handles as they give you a better leverage. They make the task of trimming up beading much easier.
Spackle Knife
A spackle knife may seem too small for a plaster job, but it can serve an important role. This handy tool knocks down the high points or chips of old plaster before the new mud is applied. With a spackle knife, you will get a much smoother and consistent finish. Simply run it across cracks and uneven surfaces before repair.
Plasterer's Float
Plasterer’s floats are as important as the other tools on this list. Without a float, you won’t be able to smooth down the top layer of plaster, resulting in an uneven surface.
Let’s say you’ve added the final layer of plaster to your walls and ceiling. You’ll want to give it one final pass over with a plasterer’s float to get a smooth, high-quality finish.
Wrapping Up
From a sponge/sandpaper to a jointing knife, be sure to have these tools ready before undertaking a plastering project.
Get in touch with Paul Atkins Plastering for more information on our full range of plastering and drylining tools.