If you’ve ever tackled bricklaying, plastering or general building work, you’ve probably come across a mortar board stand, even if you didn’t know the name for it. Put simply, it’s a sturdy metal frame designed to hold a mortar board at a comfortable working height. The board itself carries mortar, plaster, cement or similar materials, keeping them close to hand and off the floor while you work.
On building sites, mortar board stands are a familiar sight for bricklayers and plasterers. However, they’re often overlooked by DIYers, partly because there isn’t much information available about them online. That’s a shame, as they’re one of those simple bits of equipment that can quietly make jobs easier, cleaner and far more comfortable.
What is a Mortar Board Stand Used For?
Traditionally, mortar board stands are used during bricklaying, blockwork, plastering, pointing and rendering. By raising the mortar board to waist height, they reduce the need to constantly bend down, which can really take its toll over the course of a day. Having materials positioned at a natural working height also helps you work more smoothly, as everything you need is right where you expect it to be.
Another big advantage is cleanliness. Keeping mortar or plaster off the ground means it’s less likely to pick up dirt, dust or debris. This not only improves the quality of your work but also helps keep the workspace tidier and safer.
Other Possible Uses You Might Not Have Considered
One of the reasons mortar board stands are so useful is their simple, open-frame design. While they’re made with mortar boards in mind, that same design makes them surprisingly versatile in both DIY and industrial settings.
For example, many people use mortar board stands as a temporary tool station. With a board placed on top, they create a handy raised surface for trowels, floats, buckets, paint trays or even small power tools during short tasks. This can be particularly useful when decorating or plastering, where you want tools close by but don’t want them cluttering the floor.
In home renovation projects, mortar board stands come into their own in garages, sheds and unfinished rooms. They’re ideal for holding materials at a sensible height, supporting trays or boards, or simply giving you somewhere practical to place items while you work. Because they’re easy to move around, you can reposition them as your project progresses.
In workshops or light industrial environments, these stands can also be repurposed as temporary support frames. They work well for repetitive tasks, short-term storage of tools or components, or anywhere a quick, flexible raised surface is needed without committing to permanent benches or shelving.
How Can a Mortar Board Stand Improve Your DIY Experience?
Comfort is one of the biggest improvements you’ll notice when using a mortar board stand. Working at floor level often leads to sore backs, aching knees and general fatigue, especially if you’re spending hours on a project. By lifting materials to a more comfortable height, a stand helps you maintain better posture and reduces unnecessary strain on your body.
There’s also a noticeable improvement in how organised your workspace feels. When tools and materials have a dedicated place off the ground, everything is easier to see and reach. This reduces mess, helps prevent accidental spills and cuts down on time wasted looking for what you need.
Efficiency naturally improves as well. When you’re not constantly bending down or shifting items around, you can focus on the task itself. For tradespeople, this can mean better productivity across a working day. For DIYers, it often means finishing jobs quicker and with less frustration.
Key Features to Look For in a Mortar Board Stand
Although mortar board stands are fairly simple products, there are still a few features worth keeping in mind when choosing one. A strong steel construction is essential, as the stand needs to support the weight of mortar, plaster or tools without flexing or wobbling. Stability is just as important, particularly if you’re working on uneven ground, as a solid base helps keep everything secure.
A practical, no-nonsense design is usually best. Fewer moving parts tend to mean greater durability and less chance of something going wrong over time. It’s also worth considering how easy the stand is to move and store, especially if you’re working in different areas or have limited space.
Who Are Mortar Board Stands Best For?
While they’re a staple on professional building sites, mortar board stands aren’t just for bricklayers. They’re a great option for DIY enthusiasts taking on home improvement projects, plasterers and decorators who want a more comfortable setup, and even workshop users who need a flexible, temporary surface.
If you regularly find yourself needing a raised area to hold materials or tools while you work, a mortar board stand is a simple solution that can make a big difference.
A mortar board stand is a simple piece of equipment that can make working easier, cleaner and far more comfortable. Its versatility means it’s useful for much more than traditional bricklaying or plastering, offering a practical raised surface whenever tools or materials need to be kept close at hand. For anyone looking to improve their setup and work more efficiently, it’s worth exploring the range of mortar board stands, available here.