Using subpar tools on the job site decreases productivity and leads to poor results.
Even if you're a master of your trade, without the right tools, your quality will suffer. Not only will you have your boss breathing down your neck, but customers may complain about your workmanship.
We know you're not at fault, though— the tools are to blame!
So whether you're an apprentice or an experienced plasterer, you must have the right tools for the job.
Keep reading to discover our four top tools for plasterers.
Hawks
Plaster hawks feature a large, flat surface with a handle in the middle of one of its sides.
Its main purposes are to help you carry wet plaster around the Jobsite and cleanly transfer the plaster to your trowel.
There are several types of plasterer's hawks on the market, including:
- Polyurethane: This material is popular since it's lightweight yet strong enough to cope with the rigours of trade work. Polyurethane is a relatively cheap material, so it's a good choice for a budget hawk.
- Aluminium: If you're looking for the most use out of your hawk, choosing one made from aluminium is the right choice. While it's more expensive than polyurethane, you can enjoy increased strength without sacrificing mobility since it's a lightweight material.
- ABS: Polyurethane is similar to ABS in strength and versatility. But the main difference is that ABS will soften in high heat while polyurethane will harden.
Trowels
Trowels are an essential tool in the plasterer's toolbox. Without them, you won't be able to apply or finish smoothing your plaster.
Some vital trowels to have on hand include:
- Bucket trowel: This trowel typically features angled handles and a wide surface, making scooping plaster from buckets a breeze. They're also helpful for scraping dry mix from the sides of your mixing bucket.
- Edging trowel: Want your plaster to have smooth rounded edges? Then an edging trowel is a must-have. Rounded edges don't just look good either. They also help protect the plaster from chips and damage.
- Gauging trowel: These triangular trowels feature a small rounded tip that helps you reach difficult areas, such as corners. They're also excellent for applying small amounts of plaster—for example, to repair holes.
Floats
Floats are small rectangular boards that plasterers use to smooth fresh plaster, improving its aesthetic value.
Some floats to have in your toolbox include:
- Sponge face float: This versatile float can help you remove trowel marks and air pockets from the plaster. You can also use it to open up the plaster's surface before a final finish.
- Plastic float: There are many plastic floats on the market with different purposes. Floats with smooth faces are for plasterers, while you can use textured ones for rendering or even concrete.
- Scratch float: These floats are typically metal since you use them for adding texture to your renders. They're also great for keying your plaster, so it's ready for another layer.
Hammers
Hammers are great multipurpose tools for plasterers. In particular, there are two main types that you should invest in:
- Drywall hammers: These hammers are specifically for installing or removing drywall. They have hatchet-style ends for removing pieces of drywall or nails and a curved face for dimpling. Many drywall hammers
- Claw hammers: Another valuable addition to your toolbox, claw hammers can help you remove plaster from brickwork, install and remove nails and perform other preparation tasks.
When it comes to hammers, you need a high-quality tool that makes drywall installation easier. In our experience, Draper Tools is the go-to name for plastering hammers. That's why we stock hundreds of their hammers on our website.
Get the Plastering Tools You Need at Affordable Prices
At Mektronics, you can find every tool you need to make your plastering a breeze. From hawks and trowels to floats and hammers, you'll find them all at Mektronics.
We only stock plastering from top brands, such as Draper Tools, so you can be sure you're getting your money's worth.
