The 10 Best Finishing Trowels
This wiki has been updated 17 times since it was first published in March of 2020. Gone are the days when tradesmen would have just one trowel for all jobs. Nowadays, there are many different styles depending on the purpose and material you are working with. Most importantly, a good finishing trowel will stand up to general wear and tear, and achieve a perfectly smooth end result. These are of various sizes and constructions, but all are designed to meet modern-day requirements. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Ox Pro UltraFlex
2. Decora Marmorino
3. Nela Premium SuperFlex
Editor's Notes
April 30, 2021:
Plastering and concrete finishing both require a level of expertise that only comes with years of practice and hard work, however, choosing the most appropriate trowel for the job will ensure professional-quality results and save time and effort in the process. Therefore, in this update, we made sure that the selection reflects the different types of materials used and their particular application requirements. Choosing a suitable trowel boils down to two main considerations, which are the size and the flexibility of the blade, beyond this, weight and handle comfort are also important.
The Refina Plaziflex is a unique option as it uses a plastic blade rather than metal, which gives it flexibility and has the added advantage of being replaceable should it get damaged. It is also designed with a miniature stainless steel trowel built into the handle, making it ideal for getting into tight corners or confined spaces. The Goldblatt G06216 was replaced with the Goldblatt Pro-Grip, which is still a lightweight option with a magnesium tang. This model is slightly longer than the previous model at 18 inches in length, allowing more rapid coverage. Also included is the Kraft Tool ProForm, which is available in a variety of lengths from 14 to 24 inches. It is notable for its round ends that minimize surface gouging and edging, making it relatively easy to achieve a professional finish, and its blue steel blade, which is rust and corrosion resistant.
March 25, 2020:
Finishing trowels are mainly used to apply and flatten the final coat of cement rendering or plaster, and regardless of your personal preference, ability or the material in use, the finished product should look as good as possible. With this ranking, we try to cover the main applications and skill levels.
When working on a large surface area, time is of the essence, and with a longer trowel such as the Goldblatt G06216 or the Refina Superflex you have the ability to get more plaster on the wall in a shorter period of time. However, you do sacrifice a certain level of control. Larger trowels are also difficult to master, thus placing more pressure on your arms and joints, which can become uncomfortable.
if you are working with cement then you will probably require a trowel that is quite stiff, such as the Marshalltown FT144, BonTool 12-890 or the Level 5 Pro Grade. Whereas, if you need to put down a finishing coat of plaster then a more flexible option, like the Ox Pro UltraFlex, Nela Premium SuperFlex or the Refina Plaziflex would give a superior finish.
Special Honors
Draper Tools This family-run business was established in 1919, and all of their products undergo vigorous testing and evaluation to ensure compliance with international standards and European directives. Their expert range of plastering trowels are hardened and tempered with a lacquer finish. drapertools.com
Tyzack Plastering Tools With extensive experience in designing and manufacturing high-performance tools, Spear and Jackson's Tyzack range features a tempered carbon steel blade for optimum rigidity and flexibility, and a strong die-cast aluminum tang with a comfortable banana wood handle. spear-and-jackson.com
4. Marshalltown FT144
5. Goldblatt Pro-Grip
6. Refina Superflex
7. Kraft Tool ProForm
8. Refina Plaziflex
9. GLS Japanese
10. Level 5 Pro Grade
Starting his career in the building industry, Chris built and managed a plumbing and heating company in northern England. After 13 years, seeking a more fulfilling lifestyle, he moved to southeast Asia, eventually settling in Vietnam, where he teaches writing and comprehension at a number of international universities. Drawing on his previous experience, and his passion for kitesurfing and windsurfing, Chris is knowledgeable in all things water related both recreationally and within the construction industry.