Top 20 Masonry Tools Every Builder Needs: From Basics to Advanced Gear

Whether you're building a simple garden wall or starting into a major home project, having professional masonry tools at your side can make all the difference.

From trowels to advanced saws with precision blades, each tool helps you lay brickwork, spread mortar, and shape concrete with accuracy and ease. But how do you know what’s right for your next job?

Our assembled list from our experienced experts at APS Masonry Contracting covers all the necessary tools that we identify as necessary. As always, safety is a priority when working with heavy materials and power tools, so we will also cover important safety precautions, from wearing the right gear to keeping your workspace organized.  

Top Tools for Masonry

1. Tape Measure

Why it’s more than just a measuring tool:
A tape measure isn't just for casual measurements; accuracy is crucial in masonry. Imagine laying an entire wall only to find out it's slightly misaligned because you didn't measure precisely. In professional settings, especially in cities like Philadelphia where codes and regulations are strict, even a small error can cause significant delays and extra costs. Experts recommend using a high-quality, locking tape measure with a durable steel blade to prevent bending and kinking, which cheaper options tend to suffer from.

2. Bubble Level

What happens without it:
Ever seen a crooked retaining wall or uneven pavers? Without a reliable bubble level, that’s exactly what happens. For example, in a commercial project APS Masonry Contracting might undertake in Philly, uneven walls would not only look unprofessional but would also fail structural standards, potentially leading to costly rebuilds. Experts tend to use magnetic levels, which stay secure on metal surfaces, ensuring hands-free operation for greater accuracy.

3. Masonry Square

Expert insight:
For precision in corners, especially when creating perpendicular walls, a good masonry square is non-negotiable. Cheaper versions often fall out of square after a few uses, which defeats their purpose entirely. Professionals typically opt for thick, anodized aluminum squares that stay true over time, offering perfect 90-degree angles.

4. Plumb Bob

Beyond the basics:
In masonry, even slight vertical misalignment can create dangerous weaknesses in structures. A plumb bob helps to ensure true vertical alignment, which is particularly important when erecting columns or tall structures. While the average Joe can get by with a basic plumb bob from a hardware store, experts prefer weighted, rust-resistant brass models for greater accuracy and durability over time.

5. String Line and Line Block

Visualizing its value:
For large walls or long runs of brick, even slight variations can result in noticeable imperfections. The string line acts as a visual guide to ensure perfect alignment from start to finish. Imagine trying to eyeball a long wall—without a string line, you're likely to end up with a noticeable wave. Experts suggest using nylon lines for their durability, as cheaper cotton versions tend to sag or break under tension.

6. Stonemason’s Hammer

Precision in stonework:
This tool does much more than just smash stones. Its dual function—chisel edge for splitting and flat face for trimming—allows for precision in shaping stone, which is essential in aesthetic and structural projects alike. 

In high-end residential work, such as a custom stone patio in a Main Line home near Philadelphia, the difference between using a stonemason’s hammer and an ordinary hammer is night and day. A poorly cut stone weakens the entire project.

7. Power Saw

Advanced tool for modern masonry:
Cutting through dense materials like concrete, brick, and stone requires speed and precision that hand tools just can’t provide. A power saw fitted with diamond blades can slice through materials cleanly and efficiently. Without it, larger projects can drag on, increasing labor costs. 

For a major commercial job, such as a sidewalk rebuild in Center City Philadelphia, a quality power saw can make or break the budget. Cheaper saws might overheat or produce uneven cuts, leading to costly rework.

8. Blocking Chisel

Why experts use it:
Blocking chisels offer more precision than standard chisels for trimming blocks and removing excess mortar, particularly in tight spaces. Experts often opt for hardened steel versions, which maintain their edge longer and don’t chip under pressure, unlike cheap chisels that can fail after a few uses.

9. Combi Hammer

Versatility for pros:
A combi hammer combines drilling and chiseling in one powerful tool, making it indispensable for larger masonry projects like drilling anchor points or chiseling out old mortar. For the average DIYer, a basic rotary hammer may suffice, but professionals lean on high-quality models with shock absorption and speed settings, allowing them to adjust for the hardness of materials.

10. Brick Hammer

Why precision matters:
This tool allows you to cut, trim, and set bricks with a single tool. Without a brick hammer, you’d be left using a basic hammer and chisel, which is far less efficient and far less precise. A poor-quality brick hammer can actually shatter the brick, costing time and materials.

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11. Mason’s Trowel

More than just a spreading tool:
A mason’s trowel is indispensable for applying mortar evenly, but its real value lies in its versatility. Professionals use it to scoop, spread, shape, and even scrape. If you’re laying brick without a good trowel, you risk uneven mortar joints, which can lead to moisture issues or weak bonds. 

Average hardware store trowels often have weaker, thinner blades that bend under pressure, while experts prefer heavy-duty stainless steel trowels with comfortable, ergonomic handles for better control and less fatigue during long jobs.

12. Float

Smoothing for perfection:
The float's role is to smooth out wet mortar or concrete, eliminating air bubbles and ensuring a uniform surface. Without it, you’re left with a pitted, uneven finish that looks amateurish. For larger jobs, like sidewalks or driveways in Philadelphia, pros use magnesium or wooden floats, which offer the perfect balance between weight and smoothness. Cheap plastic floats often leave marks or imperfections, leading to poor finishes that will need further correction later.

13. Masonry Brush

Finishing tool for clean joints:
A masonry brush helps clear away excess mortar and debris, giving the final structure a clean, polished look. It’s also useful for preparing surfaces, such as brushing down old bricks before applying new mortar. 

Without a good-quality brush, loose mortar can remain stuck in joints, weakening the bond between bricks. Professionals recommend sturdy, stiff-bristled brushes for this task, while cheaper versions can lose bristles quickly and provide poor cleaning efficiency.

14. Mortar Pan

Efficiency in mixing and handling mortar:
A mortar pan is critical for mixing mortar and keeping it on hand for application. A shallow, wide mortar pan allows for easier scooping and keeps the mix workable for longer. A poor-quality pan, or worse, no pan at all, leads to wasted mortar and messy workspaces. 

Pros prefer rubber or heavy-duty plastic pans because they’re easier to clean and durable enough to last through multiple projects.

15. Jointers

Essential for weatherproof joints:
Jointers are used to shape mortar joints between bricks, which isn't just an aesthetic choice—it’s crucial for weatherproofing and strengthening the masonry. If the joints aren’t properly finished, moisture can seep into the structure, causing long-term damage. 

In Philadelphia, where freeze-thaw cycles are common, poorly finished joints are particularly susceptible to cracking. Pros use different-sized jointers depending on the job, ensuring tight, smooth joints that last. Inferior jointers can lead to inconsistent mortar application and weak, uneven joints.

16. Concrete Mixer

More than just saving time:
Mixing concrete by hand is both time-consuming and inconsistent, especially on large jobs. A concrete mixer ensures a consistent, smooth mix for walls, footings, or slabs. Without it, you’re risking poor concrete consistency, leading to weak spots and potential failure in the structure. 

For a professional team like APS Masonry Contracting, a high-quality mixer means faster work and more reliable results, while DIYers using lower-grade mixers might face frequent jams or uneven mixes that don’t harden properly.

17. Concrete Planer

Precision for leveling surfaces:
A concrete planer is used for leveling uneven concrete surfaces, removing coatings, or preparing surfaces for new work. Skipping this tool leaves you with uneven slabs or surfaces that are poorly prepared for new layers, resulting in weak bonds or future cracking. 

For experts, the choice is clear: powerful, electric planers that offer precision depth control and durability. Using an inferior planer, or skipping it entirely, can make it impossible to achieve the smooth, even base necessary for high-quality masonry work.

18. Straight Edge

Creating perfect lines and levels:
The straight edge is essential for ensuring level surfaces and even layers, especially over large areas like floors or driveways. If you’re using a poor-quality or warped straight edge, you’re setting yourself up for an uneven finish, leading to pooling water or uneven brickwork. 

Experts choose heavy-duty aluminum or magnesium straight edges that don’t bend or wear down over time, guaranteeing clean, straight lines that are essential for both aesthetic appeal and structural soundness.

19. Wire Brush

The cleanup tool with a big impact:
A wire brush is used to remove excess mortar, rust, or debris from surfaces before or after masonry work. Not using a wire brush can leave your project vulnerable to weak bonds or poor surface finishes. 

For restoration projects, like brick facades in historic Philadelphia neighborhoods, a quality wire brush helps clean without damaging delicate brick surfaces. Cheaper versions may lose bristles quickly or fail to remove stubborn mortar, leading to frustrating delays and lower-quality results.

20. Clamps

Holding it all in place:
Clamps are crucial for securing bricks, blocks, or other materials while the mortar sets, ensuring precise alignment. Without clamps, it’s easy for materials to shift, leading to crooked lines or uneven walls. 

Professionals prefer durable, adjustable clamps that can hold tight under pressure, whereas cheap clamps often slip or break, leaving you with a less-than-professional result. For instance, during large-scale projects like building garden walls or exterior facades, proper clamping ensures everything stays level, reducing the chance of costly errors.

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Caring for Your Masonry Tools and Staying Safe on the Job

Now that you are aware of all of the main tools, it’s important to take care of them to guarantee longevity and performance. Regular maintenance keeps your tools in top shape, and following basic safety guidelines helps you work efficiently while avoiding accidents.

• Clean Your Tools: After every job, remove debris, dust, and mortar using a wire brush or appropriate cleaner. For power tools, follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Store Properly: Keep tools in a dry, organized space to prevent rust and damage. Use shelves or hooks to avoid clutter.
• Sharpen and Lubricate: Cutting tools like chisels and saws should be kept sharp for safe and efficient use. Lubricate moving parts like power saws to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
• Inspect Regularly: Check your tools before use to spot any wear or damage. Repair or replace damaged tools to prevent accidents on the job.
• Use Safety Gear: Always wear protective equipment like goggles, gloves, dust masks, and steel-toe boots, to protect against debris, dust, and heavy materials.
• Stay Aware: Maintain a clean workspace, lift heavy items safely, and take regular breaks to stay hydrated and prevent fatigue.

Need Professional Help with Your Masonry Project?

Having the right tools is just the beginning. For expert craftsmanship and a flawless finish on your next masonry project, trust the professionals at APS Masonry Contracting. Whether you're looking to build, repair, or restore, we bring the skills and experience needed to get the job done right. Contact us today to discuss your project and let us take care of all the hard work!

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