Which joints are typically tooled first?

When working with masonry, the first joints that are typically tooled are horizontal joints. This is primarily due to the technique and flow of the masonry process. Tooling horizontal joints first helps in ensuring that the mortar is not only compacted appropriately but also allows for a more controlled and even finish as the work progresses.

Horizontal joints establish the baseline for the structure and provide a visual guideline for the positioning of subsequent courses of masonry. Additionally, by finishing horizontal joints first, it minimizes the risk of mortar droppings that could negatively impact the appearance and integrity of the vertical joints.

While vertical joints are also important and can be tooled subsequently, starting with the horizontal joints lays a solid foundation for the masonry work. Concave and expansion joints, although critical for specific purposes in masonry, generally follow after horizontal joints in the tooling sequence.