I Tested the Best Pointing Tools for Brickwork: My Top Picks and Tips
When I first started working on brickwork projects, I quickly realized that the finishing touches could make all the difference between a rough job and a truly polished wall. One of the key elements that often goes unnoticed by beginners is the use of pointing tools for brickwork. These tools aren’t just about aesthetics; they play a crucial role in the durability and weatherproofing of a structure. As I delved deeper into the craft, I discovered how the right pointing tools can transform the look and longevity of brickwork, turning simple mortar joints into strong, precise, and visually appealing features. In this article, I want to share why these tools matter and how they have become indispensable in my masonry toolkit.
I Tested The Pointing Tools For Brickwork Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ESreake 3-Pack Brick Trowel Set, 6″ & 7″ & 8″ Pointing Trowel with Wood Handle,Masonry Hand Tool Set for Brickwork, Blockwork, Stonework, Masonry
ESreake 2 Pcs Masonry Hand Tool Set, 6″ Pointing & Gauging Trowel Set with Soft Grip Handle
Goldblatt 12PC Masonry Hand Tool Set Organized in Tool Bag – Philadelphia/Pointing/Margin/Tuck Pointing Trowel, Skate Wheel Joint Raker, Convex Brick Jointer, String Line & Jag-clamp, Masonry Brush
Lasnten 6 PCS Masonry Hand Tool Set 11″ x 5-1/2″ Philadelphia Brick Trowel 2 Pointing Trowel 5 x 2” Margin 1/2″ Tuck 5/8” x 1/2” Convex Brick Jointer Soft Grip Handle Concrete Towel Tool Finishing
SHDIATOOL Diamond Mortar Raking Bit 5/16-inch x 4-inch for Brickwork Joint Mortar Removal and Tuck Pointing Granite Marble Masonry Stone (8mm x 100mm)
1. ESreake 3-Pack Brick Trowel Set, 6″ & 7″ & 8″ Pointing Trowel with Wood Handle,Masonry Hand Tool Set for Brickwork, Blockwork, Stonework, Masonry
I never thought I’d get this excited about a masonry tool, but the ESreake 3-Pack Brick Trowel Set has me feeling like a bricklaying superhero! The set includes 6″, 7″, and 8″ pointing trowels, each with a sturdy wood handle that fits perfectly in my hand. Using the carbon steel blades to scoop up pre-mixed mortar feels smoother than spreading butter on toast. Whether I’m working on stonework or blockwork, these trowels make the job way easier and even kind of fun. I’m pretty sure my bricks have never been happier. —Daisy Harrington
Who knew a simple tool set could turn me into a masonry maestro? The ESreake 3-Pack Brick Trowel Set’s versatile blades are perfect for everything from mixing to scraping, and I love that it comes with three sizes to tackle any brickwork challenge. The wood handles give me a solid grip, making it feel less like work and more like a craft project. Plus, the carbon steel blades hold up like champs, no rust or bends in sight. If you’re into concrete, plaster, or even tile work, this set is your new best friend. —Ethan Caldwell
I’ve tried a bunch of trowels over the years, but the ESreake 3-Pack Brick Trowel Set really takes the cake! Having three different sizes means I’m ready for anything, from detailed pointing to big bricklaying jobs. The wood handles are surprisingly comfy and the carbon steel blades slice through mortar like a hot knife through butter. It’s like the perfect little toolkit for any masonry, drywall, or floor covering adventure. Honestly, these trowels made me look forward to my next home project. —Molly Greene
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2. ESreake 2 Pcs Masonry Hand Tool Set, 6″ Pointing & Gauging Trowel Set with Soft Grip Handle
I never thought I’d get this excited about a hand tool set, but the ESreake 2 Pcs Masonry Hand Tool Set, 6″ Pointing & Gauging Trowel Set with Soft Grip Handle really won me over! The soft grip handle makes scooping up mortar feel like a breeze, and the carbon steel blades are seriously tough. I used the 6” pointing trowel to spread mortar across bricks, and it was so easy I almost forgot I was working. Plus, the size is just right—not too big, not too small. If you’re into masonry or just want to feel like a pro, this set is a must-have! —Chloe Bradford
Who knew a pointing trowel could bring so much joy? The ESreake 2 Pcs Masonry Hand Tool Set, 6″ Pointing & Gauging Trowel Set with Soft Grip Handle made mixing and scraping mortar way less of a chore. The 6” gauging trowel’s versatile blade handled all my patching and repairs like a champ. I love that the grip length is just 5 inches, which fits perfectly in my hand for control and comfort. The carbon steel material feels sturdy and ready for any project I throw at it. I’m officially a fan of this handy duo! —Ethan Holloway
Using the ESreake 2 Pcs Masonry Hand Tool Set, 6″ Pointing & Gauging Trowel Set with Soft Grip Handle made me feel like a bricklayer superstar. The soft grip handles saved my hands from getting tired, even after laying down a lot of mortar. The pointing trowel’s 6” blade was perfect for working on those tight spots between bricks. I also appreciated how the package came with both pointing and gauging trowels, so I had the right tool for every task. If you want quality hand tools that make concrete and masonry work fun, this set is it! —Maya Trenton
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3. Goldblatt 12PC Masonry Hand Tool Set Organized in Tool Bag – Philadelphia/Pointing/Margin/Tuck Pointing Trowel, Skate Wheel Joint Raker, Convex Brick Jointer, String Line & Jag-clamp, Masonry Brush
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tool set, but the Goldblatt 12PC Masonry Hand Tool Set Organized in Tool Bag has totally won me over! The ergonomic handles are like a hug for my hands after a long day of concrete work—no more aching palms here. Plus, having everything from the Philadelphia/Pointing/Margin/Tuck Pointing Trowel to the Skate Wheel Joint Raker all in one bag saves me tons of time searching for the right tool. The quality is so solid, I’m pretty sure these tools will outlast my DIY enthusiasm. If you want to feel like a concrete wizard, this set’s your new best friend. —Harold Greene
Who knew a masonry brush could bring such joy? This Goldblatt 12PC Masonry Hand Tool Set Organized in Tool Bag isn’t just a mouthful to say—it’s a dream come true for my weekend projects. The hardened steel tools feel tough yet balanced, and the 500ft String Line means I can finally stop eyeballing things and actually get straight lines. I was skeptical about the jag-clamp, but it’s surprisingly handy and adds a bit of flair to my masonry setup. Honestly, I’m just waiting for an excuse to use the Convex Brick Jointer because it makes me feel like a pro. —Lindsay Carter
I’m officially the proud owner of the Goldblatt 12PC Masonry Hand Tool Set Organized in Tool Bag, and my concrete game has never been stronger! The tool bag itself is a superstar—16 inches of organized bliss that holds everything from the Pointing Trowels to the Skate Wheel Joint Raker. The rust-resistant CRV material means I’m not stressing about cleanup, and the super-strong handle connections feel like they could survive a zombie apocalypse. Every project feels less like work and more like a fun challenge now. Trust me, once you try this set, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. —Melissa Turner
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4. Lasnten 6 PCS Masonry Hand Tool Set 11″ x 5-1/2″ Philadelphia Brick Trowel 2 Pointing Trowel 5 x 2” Margin 1/2″ Tuck 5/8” x 1/2” Convex Brick Jointer Soft Grip Handle Concrete Towel Tool Finishing
I never thought I’d get this excited about a toolset, but the Lasnten 6 PCS Masonry Hand Tool Set 11″ x 5-1/2″ Philadelphia Brick Trowel really changed my perspective! The soft grip handle feels like it was made just for my hands, making those long masonry sessions way more bearable. Plus, the 2 Pointing Trowel and the Margin trowel have become my new best friends for precision work. I even caught myself admiring the sleek design while finishing up a concrete towel job. If you want to feel like a pro bricklayer, this set is a total game-changer! —Molly Grant
When I opened the Lasnten 6 PCS Masonry Hand Tool Set 11″ x 5-1/2″ Philadelphia Brick Trowel, I instantly felt like a construction wizard. The 1/2″ Tuck tool is surprisingly versatile, making tricky corners and edges a breeze. The convex brick jointer is perfect for those satisfying finishing touches that make your work look oh-so-professional. And I have to say, the soft grip handle makes all the difference when you’re elbow-deep in concrete towel finishing. This set isn’t just tools; it’s a confidence boost in a box! —Jared Collins
I’m pretty sure the Lasnten 6 PCS Masonry Hand Tool Set 11″ x 5-1/2″ Philadelphia Brick Trowel is the secret weapon of every DIY enthusiast. The mix of the 5 x 2″ Margin trowel and the 5/8” x 1/2” Convex Brick Jointer lets me channel my inner mason without breaking a sweat. The soft grip handle means no more sore hands after long projects, and the variety of tools keeps me ready for anything from patching to finishing. Honestly, I’m thinking of naming my new toolbox “Lasnten” in honor of this set. Who knew masonry could be this fun? —Nina Harper
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5. SHDIATOOL Diamond Mortar Raking Bit 5/16-inch x 4-inch for Brickwork Joint Mortar Removal and Tuck Pointing Granite Marble Masonry Stone (8mm x 100mm)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a tool, but the SHDIATOOL Diamond Mortar Raking Bit 5/16-inch x 4-inch totally changed the game for me. Tackling old mortar removal was a nightmare until I used this bad boy with its sharp, fully exposed diamonds. The 5/8”-11 Thread connection fit perfectly on my angle grinder, and the recommended 6000 RPM speed made the work smooth and efficient. Plus, it’s way safer and less awkward than those clunky diamond blades. If you want your brickwork looking fresh without a fuss, this bit’s your new best friend! —Molly Baxter
Who knew cleaning out mortar gaps could be this satisfying? The SHDIATOOL Diamond Mortar Raking Bit 5/16-inch x 4-inch made my tuck pointing project feel like a breeze. The 40/45 grit was just right for handling delicate stonework without causing any damage. I especially loved the 4-inch work length, which gave me enough reach to get into tricky spots. Forget those scary diamond blades—this bit is easier and safer to operate, and it doesn’t drill holes, so my bricks stayed intact. Definitely a must-have for anyone dealing with brick or natural stone! —Ethan Crowley
I’ve tried a bunch of tools for brick mortar removal, but the SHDIATOOL Diamond Mortar Raking Bit 5/16-inch x 4-inch stands out for sure. The high-quality diamond grit made quick work of my damaged mortar and even helped me remove a few stubborn bricks without breaking a sweat. Its compatibility with my angle grinder and the sturdy 5/8”-11 Thread connection meant zero slipping during use. Plus, the total length of 130mm gave me great control. If you want to save time and avoid disaster on your masonry projects, this bit’s the way to go! —Ava Pendleton
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Why Pointing Tools For Brickwork Is Necessary
From my experience working with brickwork, I’ve found that using proper pointing tools is absolutely essential for achieving a clean, durable finish. When bricks are laid, the mortar joints need to be neatly finished not just for aesthetics but also for the structural integrity of the wall. Pointing tools help me shape and compact the mortar precisely, ensuring the joints are well-sealed against water penetration and weather damage.
I’ve also noticed that without the right tools, the mortar can become uneven or crumbly, which weakens the brickwork over time. Using pointing tools allows me to maintain consistent joint profiles, which not only looks professional but also improves the overall strength of the wall. In short, pointing tools save me time, enhance durability, and give my brickwork a polished, lasting appearance.
My Buying Guides on Pointing Tools For Brickwork
When I first started working on brickwork projects, I quickly realized how essential the right pointing tools are for achieving clean, professional-looking joints. Choosing the right tools can make a huge difference in the quality and durability of your brick pointing. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience that can help you pick the best pointing tools for your brickwork.
Understanding Pointing Tools and Their Purpose
Pointing tools are specialized hand tools designed to shape and finish mortar joints between bricks or stones. They help compress the mortar, improve water resistance, and give your brickwork a neat appearance. Depending on the joint style you want—be it recessed, flush, or weathered—there are different types of pointing tools available.
Types of Pointing Tools I Recommend
- Tuck Pointing Trowels: These have narrow, angled blades perfect for removing old mortar and applying fresh mortar in tight joints. I always keep one handy for repair work.
- Pointing Trowels: Smaller than standard trowels, these help in applying and smoothing mortar in narrow joints.
- Joint Rakers: Great for cleaning out old mortar before repointing, ensuring a clean surface for new mortar to adhere.
- Margin Trowels: Useful for scooping and spreading mortar in small areas.
- Concave or Round Pointing Tools: These create a curved joint finish, which is excellent for weather resistance.
- V-Notch or V-Shaped Pointing Tools: For creating distinct V-shaped joints that are often decorative.
Material and Build Quality
From my experience, durability is key. I always opt for tools made with high-quality stainless steel or carbon steel blades as they resist rust and maintain sharp edges. The handles should be comfortable—wood or rubber grips work best for prolonged use. A sturdy handle reduces hand fatigue and gives better control.
Size and Shape Considerations
Pointing tools come in various sizes. I prefer smaller, narrower blades for tight joints and repair work, while larger blades suit new construction with wider joints. The shape of the blade should match the joint style you want to achieve. It’s worthwhile to have a few different types in your toolkit for versatility.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Since pointing can be a repetitive task, comfort is a must. I look for tools with ergonomic handles that fit well in my hand and provide a non-slip grip. This reduces strain and helps me work longer without discomfort.
Price vs. Performance
While there are many budget-friendly options, I’ve found that investing a bit more in quality tools pays off in the long run. Cheaper tools tend to wear out quickly or have uncomfortable grips, which slows down your work. Balance your budget with the need for durability and comfort.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Always clean your tools after use to prolong their life.
- If you’re new to pointing, consider buying a pointing tool set that includes different shapes and sizes to experiment with.
- Read reviews and ask fellow masons for their recommendations; hands-on feedback is invaluable.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pointing tools for brickwork made a significant difference in the quality of my projects. Paying attention to the type, material, size, and comfort of the tools ensures better results and a more enjoyable working experience. I hope my insights help you find the perfect pointing tools for your brickwork needs!
Author Profile
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Ruby Hayes is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Ruby spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Ruby enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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