

One of the key pieces of equipment for achieving a smooth finish on a concrete floor is a power trowel. There are two primary types of power trowels: walk behind power trowels and ride-on power trowels. In order to choose the type of power trowel that is right for your business and application, there are a few different factors to consider. Below, we’ll discuss the differences between walk behind & ride-on power trowels and provide you with some tips on choosing the equipment that’s right for you! If you have any additional questions about concrete finishing equipment or if you are looking to buy or rent power trowels in New England, please contact our team at Pro Tool & Supply and Pro Equipment Rental today to get a free quote!
Walk-Behind Power Trowels
As the name implies, a walk-behind power trowel is operated manually by walking behind the machine and guiding it across the concrete surface. Walk-behind power trowels are generally more affordable and are most suitable for small projects – they are perfect for finishing concrete in areas less than 1,000 square feet. The downside to walk-behind power trowels is that they can be physically demanding to use for extended periods and they are much less efficient for large-scale projects.
Ride-On Power Trowels
Ride-on power trowels are larger machines equipped with a seat that allow the user to be comfortably positioned while operating the machine. Ride-on power trowels enable you to cover a lot of ground in less time than you would be able to with a walk-behind power trowel. Ride-on power trowels provide an ultra-smooth finish and are suitable for larger-scale concrete finishing jobs like warehouses. The downside to ride-on power trowels is that they have a higher upfront cost to purchase and are not suitable for tight spaces.
How To Choose Which Type Of Power Trowel Is Right For Your Application
- Budget: Walk-behind power trowels are more affordable than their ride-on counterparts, making them more suitable for contractors that are looking to purchase a power trowel on a tight budget.
- Project Size: Ride-on trowels are more efficient for large projects comprising areas larger than 1,000 square feet. The comfort that ride-on power trowels provide users with allows them to be operated for longer hours compared to the manual labor required to push walk-behind power trowels.
- Accessibility: If you’re dealing with tight corners or a space with numerous obstacles, walk-behind power trowels may be a better option. The size of ride-on power trowels can make it difficult to access tight areas.
Buy & Rent Power Trowels in New England from Pro Tool & Supply!
Pro Tool & Supply and Pro Equipment Rental provides contractors and construction companies in New England with sales and rentals of construction equipment, tools, and supplies, including ride-on and walk-behind power trowels! If you are a contractor in New England that is interested in purchasing or renting construction equipment for your business, please contact Pro Tool & Supply by calling us at (857) 214-7741 or by filling out the contact form on our website! To get a free estimate on a purchase or rental from Pro Tool & Supply, please fill out the “Request a Quote” form on our website!


