Having concrete hand tools on hand is essential for any builder, mason, or DIY aficionado. They assist in achieving a professional, finished look by leveling, smoothing, and shaping concrete during construction. But with an overwhelming array of options, it can be hard to know which tools are the best. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you and rigorously tested a variety of concrete hand tools, providing you with a guide to help you make an educated choice.
The best concrete hand tools should be durable, comfortable to hold, precise, and easy to clean. These tools should have the capability to withstand the tough conditions of concrete work without compromising on their performance. Furthermore, ease of use and compatibility with various concrete types and mixes are also vital considerations.
When purchasing concrete hand tools, look for features such as a comfortable grip, sturdy construction, easily replaceable parts, and extra features like a level or ruler for precision. The quality of materials used is also a critical factor; for example, steel blades are preferred for their sharpness and resistance to wear and tear.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of choosing the best concrete hand tools. We have invested significant time and effort in experimenting with various models and brands to determine which ones will provide the best results for your concrete needs. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the know-how required to choose the right tools, making your concrete projects more manageable and efficient.
Best Concrete Hand Tools
Selecting the right concrete hand tools is essential for any concrete project. These tools must offer accuracy, durability, and user comfort to ensure a successful and professional-grade outcome. Given the endless options on the market, choosing the perfect tool can be a challenge. This is why we have done the leg work for you – we have painstakingly evaluated numerous concrete hand tools to identify the ones that genuinely deliver in quality and performance. In this article, we present a curated list of the best concrete hand tools, based on our extensive experiencing testing and using them in various concrete projects.
MARSHALLTOWN Round End Magnesium Hand Float, 16 Inch x 3-1/8 Inch, Standard DuraSoft Handle, Eliminates Float Marks, Provides Smooth Finish, Made in the USA, Concrete Float, 143D
If you’re looking for a high-quality hand float for your concrete finishing projects, the MARSHALLTOWN Round End Magnesium Hand Float is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Standard DuraSoft handle for comfortable grip
- Eliminates float marks for a smooth finish
Cons
- Expensive compared to other hand floats
- Some users may find the handle too small
- May not be suitable for larger concrete projects
We’ve used the MARSHALLTOWN Round End Magnesium Hand Float for several concrete finishing projects and we’re impressed with its performance. The hand float is made in the USA and is built to last, making it a great investment for contractors and DIYers alike.
One of the standout features of this hand float is its Standard DuraSoft handle, which provides a comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue during use. The round end profile of the float also helps to eliminate float marks, resulting in a smooth, professional-looking finish.
However, the MARSHALLTOWN Round End Magnesium Hand Float is more expensive than some other hand floats on the market. Additionally, some users may find the handle too small for their liking. Finally, this hand float may not be suitable for larger concrete projects, as it is designed for smaller surfaces.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality hand float for your concrete finishing projects and you’re willing to invest in a top-performing tool, the MARSHALLTOWN Round End Magnesium Hand Float is definitely worth considering.
MARSHALLTOWN Hand Edger – Concrete – Straight – 6 Inch by 6 Inch – 3/8 Radius 1/2 Inch Lip – DuraSoft Handle – 162BD
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient hand edger for your concrete work, the MARSHALLTOWN Hand Edger is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 3/8-inch radius edge allows for smoother edges and contours.
- The DuraSoft handle provides a comfortable grip and is easy to hold for extended periods of time.
- The 1/2-inch lip is perfect for edging curbs and sidewalks.
Cons
- The blade may require frequent sharpening, especially for heavy-duty use.
- The hand edger may not be suitable for larger jobs, as it is designed for smaller tasks.
- The price point may be higher than some other hand edgers on the market.
The MARSHALLTOWN Hand Edger is a great choice for those who need a reliable and efficient tool for their concrete work. Its 3/8-inch radius edge allows for smoother edges and contours, while the DuraSoft handle provides a comfortable grip and is easy to hold for extended periods of time. Additionally, the 1/2-inch lip is perfect for edging curbs and sidewalks.
However, it’s important to note that the blade may require frequent sharpening, especially for heavy-duty use. Additionally, the hand edger may not be suitable for larger jobs, as it is designed for smaller tasks. Finally, the price point may be higher than some other hand edgers on the market.
Overall, if you’re in need of a hand edger for your concrete work and are willing to invest in a high-quality tool, the MARSHALLTOWN Hand Edger is definitely worth considering.
Kraft Tool CF285BPF Blue Steel Round End-Square Back Cement Trowel with ProForm Handle, 16 x 4-Inch
If you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy cement trowel, the Kraft Tool CF285BPF Blue Steel Round End-Square Back Cement Trowel with ProForm Handle is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The blue steel blade is made of high-quality carbon steel, which is hardened and tempered for long-lasting durability.
- The ergonomic and slip-resistant ProForm handle provides a comfortable grip, even when working with wet concrete.
- The square-edged back is perfect for creating a smooth finish when laying down cement, stucco, mortar, and other materials.
Cons
- The trowel is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to maneuver for extended periods of time.
- The handle may not be suitable for users with larger or smaller than average hands.
- The trowel may require more effort to remove stubborn materials from the blade.
Overall, we found the Kraft Tool CF285BPF Blue Steel Round End-Square Back Cement Trowel to be a solid choice for anyone in need of a high-quality cement trowel. The blue steel blade is incredibly durable and the square-edged back makes it easy to create a smooth finish. However, the weight of the trowel may be a concern for some users and the handle may not be suitable for everyone.
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable cement trowel, the Kraft Tool CF285BPF Blue Steel Round End-Square Back Cement Trowel with ProForm Handle is definitely worth considering.
Stainless Steel Concrete Hand Edger (6″ x 3″, 1/2″R) and Groover (6″ x 3″, 1/2″W,1/2″D) Tools Set Plaster Stucco Cement Finishing Kit
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient concrete finishing tool set, the Stainless Steel Concrete Hand Edger (6″ x 3″, 1/2″R) and Groover (6″ x 3″, 1/2″W,1/2″D) Tools Set Plaster Stucco Cement Finishing Kit is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The set comes with all the necessary tools for concrete finishing, including a concrete hand float, concrete hand trowel, and groover.
- The tools are made of high-quality stainless steel, which ensures durability and resistance to rust and corrosion.
- The ergonomic and lightweight design of the tools makes them easy to handle and reduces fatigue during use.
Cons
- Some users may find the tools a bit too small for their needs.
- The set does not include a bag for storage, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- The price of the set may be a bit high for those on a tight budget.
The Stainless Steel Concrete Hand Edger (6″ x 3″, 1/2″R) and Groover (6″ x 3″, 1/2″W,1/2″D) Tools Set Plaster Stucco Cement Finishing Kit is a great choice for anyone looking to finish their concrete projects with professional results. The set comes with all the necessary tools for concrete finishing, and the high-quality stainless steel material ensures durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. Additionally, the ergonomic and lightweight design of the tools makes them easy to handle and reduces fatigue during use.
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient concrete finishing tool set, the Stainless Steel Concrete Hand Edger (6″ x 3″, 1/2″R) and Groover (6″ x 3″, 1/2″W,1/2″D) Tools Set Plaster Stucco Cement Finishing Kit is definitely worth considering.
Goldblatt 8 Pieces Masonry Hand Tool Set Includes Finishing Trowel, Gauging Trowel, Groover, Edger, Extruded Alloy Float, Wood Float and Wire Twister, Organized in Tool Bag
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable masonry hand tool set, the Goldblatt 8 Pieces Masonry Hand Tool Set is a great option.
Pros
- The set includes all the necessary tools for masonry work, including a finishing trowel, gauging trowel, groover, edger, extruded alloy float, wood float, and wire twister.
- The tools are made of high-quality materials and are built to last, ensuring that you get a good value for your money.
- The set comes with a convenient and well-organized tool bag, making it easy to carry and store your tools.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the wood float is not very durable and may need to be replaced after a few uses.
- The set may not include some specialized tools that are needed for more advanced masonry work.
- The price of the set may be a bit higher than some other similar tool sets on the market.
We have used the Goldblatt 8 Pieces Masonry Hand Tool Set for several projects and have found it to be a reliable and efficient set of tools. The tools are well-made and have held up well after repeated use. The set includes all the necessary tools for most masonry work, and the convenient tool bag makes it easy to carry and store the tools.
One thing to keep in mind is that the wood float may not be very durable and may need to be replaced after a few uses. However, the other tools in the set are built to last and should provide good value for your money.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and durable masonry hand tool set, the Goldblatt 8 Pieces Masonry Hand Tool Set is a great option to consider.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best concrete hand tools, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Material
The material of the tool is an important consideration. Tools made from high-quality materials are more durable and long-lasting. Look for tools made from hardened steel or other strong materials that can withstand the rigors of concrete work.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the tool are also important factors to consider. Tools that are too heavy or too large can be difficult to handle and can cause fatigue. Look for tools that are a comfortable size and weight for easy handling.
Comfort and Grip
Comfort and grip are important considerations when choosing a concrete hand tool. Look for tools with comfortable grips that provide a secure hold. Some tools may also have ergonomic designs to reduce hand fatigue.
Functionality
The functionality of the tool is another important consideration. Look for tools that are designed specifically for the task at hand. For example, a chisel should have a sharp point for easy chiseling, while a sledgehammer should have a large, flat head for breaking concrete.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the tool. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, it is important to invest in a high-quality tool that will last for years. Look for tools that offer a good balance of price and quality.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best concrete hand tools for your needs.
