Edgers

Purpose: To produce a clean edge along joints in concrete and along the slab perimeter (before forms are removed). Edging consolidates the concrete while creating a neat, rounded edge that's less prone to chipping or spalling.

Edger Marshalltown Trowel Company Marshalltown, IA
Marshalltown in Marshalltown, IA.		 Edger in Use Portland Cement Association
Portland Cement Association in Skokie, IL

What's available: Hand edgers range in size from 1 1/2 to 6 inches wide and 6 to 10 inches long. A lip on one side of the tool, which forms the edge, comes in various radiuses (from 1/8 inch to 2 inches) and depths (from 3/8 inch to 1 1/2 inches).

Video: Edging Tools

Watch Bob Harris demonstrate the use of various edging tools.
Length: 03:07

Buying tips:

  • Bronze edgers are usually heavier, thicker, and more expensive than steel edgers although some manufacturers offer heavy-gauge stainless steel edgers that are said to be stronger than traditional bronze. These tools tend to last longer and produce a smoother, denser edge, often making them worth the extra investment.

  • Edgers are available with front and back ends that are either flat or curved upward. Curved ends help prevent the tool from gauging the concrete.

  • Edgers with comfort-grip handles cost slightly more than models with wood handles, but the softer grip helps reduce hand fatigue.

  • To minimize bending and kneeling, you can buy walking edgers that attach to wood handles. Two types of handle brackets are common. One allows flipping of the handle from one side to the other for easy two-way use, and the other swivels to allowing locking of the handle at any point in a 360-degree radius.

Average costs: Prices for edgers can vary significantly, depending on the quality of the blade. You'll spend a mere $5 or $6 for a 6x3-inch blue-steel edger and as much as $25 for a bronze or heavy-gauge stainless steel tool.

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