What is the primary tool used to finish the surface of mortar joints?

The primary tool used to finish the surface of mortar joints is a jointer. This tool is specifically designed to create a uniform and aesthetically pleasing join in the mortar between bricks or blocks, aiding in both the appearance and the durability of the structure.

Using a jointer helps compress the mortar joint and create a defined shape, which can improve moisture resistance and prevent water infiltration. The shape of the joint created can also affect the visual appeal of the masonry work, making it a vital tool for achieving professional finish results.

While other tools such as trowels and smoothing irons have their own purposes in masonry work, they are not specialized for finishing mortar joints in the same way that jointers are. A trowel is primarily used for spreading and shaping mortar, while a smoothing iron is typically used for smoothing out surfaces. A spatula, on the other hand, is generally not used in masonry and serves different functions in other fields. The specificity of the jointer for the task at hand establishes its importance in mortar joint finishing.