Microcement has become one of the star coatings For renovating interior floors and walls without endless construction work. Its minimal thickness, excellent adhesion, and the possibility of applying it over many existing surfaces make it ideal for quick reforms but very effective, both in homes and commercial premises.
In addition to its decorative potential, microcement stands out for its resistanceIts impermeability and ability to withstand intensive use in demanding areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, or high-traffic floors are key advantages. However, for the finish to be durable and free from cracks, stains, or chipping, it is essential to follow a clear technical methodology and respect each application phase.
What is microcement and why does it work so well indoors?
Microcement is a continuous coating of very low thicknessIt is formulated from cements, polymers, resins, and additives that improve its adhesion, mechanical resistance, and performance against water and chemical agents. It is applied in thin layers (approximately 3 mm total thickness) to floors, walls, and other building elements.
One of its great advantages is that it can be placed on existing supports. , the existing supports Such materials as tiles, cement mortar, polished concrete, plaster, drywall, and even certain furniture and countertops, provided they are properly prepared. This avoids demolition, debris, and major disruptions, reducing both the time and cost of the renovation.
Indoors, microcement offers a seamless, continuous aesthetic.This enhances the feeling of spaciousness and makes cleaning much easier. Its appearance can range from a very minimalist and smooth finish to more striking effects, with veins, waters and textures, depending on the trowel technique used and the product system chosen.
It is a material especially suitable for kitchens and bathroomsWhen properly sealed, it offers excellent resistance to water, common stains, and household cleaning products. Furthermore, it withstands the heat and temperature fluctuations typical of the kitchen, provided the manufacturer's specifications are followed.
From a decorative standpoint, microcement offers a very wide range of colors., ranging from classic cement grays to warm tones, off-whites, sands, and even vintage finishes or with more pronounced textures. The evolution of microcement It now allows for very diverse finishes depending on the technique and system chosen.
Key advantages of microcement on floors and walls
The first major advantage of microcement is its minimal impact on the construction siteIt is applied in very thin layers over the existing surface, often without the need to remove previous coverings. This means less dust, less noise, and much shorter installation times than a traditional renovation.
Another important quality is its high adhesion to multiple substrates.Provided they are properly consolidated and suitable primers and meshes are used. With good preparation, the system is anchored to the substrate and the risk of detachment or surface cracking is minimized.
In terms of performance, microcement is resistant to wear and abrasion.Therefore, it performs very well on floors subject to frequent traffic. Combined with a quality sealer, its surface hardness is increased and maintenance is facilitated with simple cleaning.
Waterproofing is another of the system's strengths.Microcement itself is quite compact by its nature, but it is the final sealant (usually water-based polyurethane, acrylic, or manufacturer-specific systems) that transforms the whole into a coating suitable for wet areas, showers, kitchens, and surfaces exposed to splashes.
From an aesthetic point of view, microcement offers a continuous, elegant and very modern finishWith no visible joints, it reduces dirt and mold spots compared to traditional ceramic tiles. Furthermore, the ability to play with trowels, drying times, and colors allows for maximum customization of the result.
Preparing the support: the most important phase
Before thinking about colors or decorative effects, you have to focus on the basePreparing the substrate is the most delicate step and one that largely determines the system's durability. A poorly prepared substrate will ruin even the best microcement on the market.
The first thing is to protect the work areaCover baseboards, electrical outlets, furniture, doors, and anything else that might get stained during application. Proper protection prevents mishaps and extra cleaning time at the end of the project.
Next, check for dampness.It is highly recommended to use a moisture meter, especially on floors and walls in contact with the ground or in bathrooms. To ensure successful microcement application, the substrate moisture content should be below 5%, unless a specific system with vapor barriers based on epoxy resins or other consolidants is used.
Cleaning the support is essentialDust, grease, poorly adhered paint residue, waxes, old resins, or any coating that may hinder adhesion must be removed. In some cases, sanding, stripping, or aggressive mechanical sanding will be necessary to open the pores and ensure optimal bonding.
The structural condition of the surface also needs to be checked.Loose pieces, poorly adhered tiles, hollow areas, active cracks, or significant discontinuities must be removed. These issues are corrected with repair mortars, fast-setting fillers, or products recommended by the chosen microcement system.
Finally, it is essential to check the planimetryMicrocement is not a leveling product; with an average thickness of 2-3 mm, any significant surface relief will be visible. If the floor or wall has bumps or depressions, it will need to be leveled with self-leveling or repair mortars before applying the microcement system.
Primers, meshes and consolidants
Once the surface is clean, dry and stable, it's time to prime.The primer or adhesion promoter acts as a bonding bridge between the substrate and the microcement base, improving adhesion and homogenizing the absorption of the substrate.
The type of primer varies depending on the substrate.Treating highly absorbent plaster is not the same as treating glazed tiles, very compact concrete, or wood. There are specific primers available, with or without mineral fillers, acrylic primers, epoxy vapor barriers, and so on. Following the system's recommendations is essential.
In most applications, a fiberglass mesh is used.This mesh is especially useful on floors and walls subject to stress or potential movement. It is placed on the substrate (or on the first coat of primer/consolidant) and integrates into the base microcement layers, acting as a "skeleton" that helps distribute stress and reduces the risk of cracking.
It is important to use high-efficiency alkaline-protected mesh screensDesigned for use with cementitious products and resins, these meshes are suitable for walls, floors, and also for special surfaces such as countertops, benches, furniture, or complex wall linings.
In cases of supports with a risk of rising damp For problematic subsoils, consolidants and epoxy resins can be used as a vapor barrier. These products are applied before the microcement system as an intermediate layer that stabilizes the substrate and limits moisture transmission, always following the manufacturer's protocol.
Microcement application: general system scheme
Although each brand has its own system, the application scheme is quite similar In most professional microcements, the process involves successive layers, from a base coat to a decorative finish, topped off with protective sealers.
In general, the complete process usually includes four main phasesFirst, prepare the surface by placing mesh and applying primer or adhesion promoter. Second, apply two coats of base or preparation microcement. Third, apply two coats of finishing microcement, which define the texture and color. Fourth, apply a final seal with protective resins.
The base microcement layers are applied over the mesh They are used to level minor irregularities, add body to the system, and provide extra strength to the surface. They are applied with a trowel (usually metal or mixed) and left to dry according to the specified times, sanding between coats to remove burrs and minor imperfections.
The finishing microcement is responsible for the final appearance.Color, nuances, and textures. It is usually applied in two coats, carefully controlling the trowel's direction, pressure, and drying times to achieve the desired effect. This is where the applicator's skill is most evident. For examples of polished finishes and their practical application, you can see references on Polished microcement in decoration.
Once the finishing process is complete and the minimum curing time has elapsedThe sealing process then begins. First, two coats of a pre-sealer or intermediate product are usually applied to close pores and prepare the surface, followed by two coats of a high-performance sealer (polyurethane, for example) that provides final protection against stains, scratches, and moisture.
The entire system must always respect the drying and curing times. between layers. Artificially accelerating curing with heaters, strong air currents, or applying excessively thick layers increases the risk of cracks, surface bubbles, or lack of adhesion between layers.
How to apply microcement step by step indoors
For those who consider themselves a bit "handy," microcement can be tempting.But don't be fooled: although the process can be explained in a few steps, executing each phase well requires technique, patience, and a clear understanding of the materials. If you want to try it on your own, consult guides on do the renovation yourself with ready-to-use microcement.
The first real step in the application is always preparing the supportAs mentioned, protecting everything that will not be covered, correcting dampness, deep cleaning, repairing cracks, leveling and checking the flatness are mandatory tasks before opening the first container of microcement.
The second major step involves priming and placing the fiberglass mesh.Depending on the substrate, a suitable primer will be applied (acrylic, epoxy, with or without filler), the mesh will be integrated onto the surface and left to dry for the minimum required time, usually 12-24 hours.
Thirdly, the base microcement layers are applied.On the already fixed mesh, the first coat of base is applied with a trowel, left to dry, and then sanded with a relatively coarse grit (for example, 40) to remove imperfections. A second coat of base, usually already pigmented, is then applied, following the same drying and sanding procedure.
The fourth step is the application of the finishing microcementTwo coats are typically applied here, with a finer sanding in between (80, 120, or even 180 grit, depending on the system) to smooth the texture and define the final appearance. The pressure applied with the trowel, the speed and direction of the movements, and the time between coats all greatly influence the decorative effect.
Finally, the sealing layers are applied.The usual practice is to apply one or two coats of pre-sealer, allowing it to dry for several hours, and then finish with two coats of the final sealer. These products typically do not require sanding between coats, unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise, and they are responsible for the surface being truly resistant, easy to clean, and, in many cases, completely waterproof.
Application on tiles: critical points
One of the most frequent uses of microcement in interiors is to cover tiles Bathroom and kitchen renovations can modernize the space without chipping away at walls. The process works very well, but requires a rigorous protocol to avoid visible seams or pieces coming loose.
The first step is to check the condition of the existing tilesLocate any loose, broken, chipped, or hollow tiles. Any damaged tiles should be removed and replaced, filling the gaps with a quick-setting or repair mortar that leaves a firm and continuous surface.
If the joints between tiles are thin, it is recommended to fill them. with base or fine microcement, letting it dry for a minimum of 24 hours and then sanding with an aggressive grit (for example 40) to homogenize the surface and prevent it from showing through under the new coating.
Next, the priming and placement of the fiber mesh takes place.The adhesion promoter is applied with a roller to the ceramic surface, the mesh is spread and left to dry for the indicated time (usually around 24 hours) before moving on to the base layers.
The first layer of base microcement is applied with a metal trowelIt is left to dry for 4 to 6 hours and sanded with 40 grit. Then a second base coat is applied, already with the chosen pigment, which must dry for about 24 hours before sanding again with the same grit.
In the finishing phase, the final coats of microcement are applied. following a process similar to that of the base, but with progressively finer sanding (for example, 80 grit sandpaper for the first coat of finish and 80 or 180 grit for the second), until a smooth and homogeneous texture is achieved.
The final sealing is done with two coats of sealant.The layers are applied with a drying time of approximately 8 hours between the first and second coats, without the need for sanding in between unless otherwise specified. Once the sealant has cured, the surface is ready for use, with a completely renewed appearance and no visual trace of the old tiles.
Application on plaster, drywall and mortar walls
Microcement has become extremely popular on interior walls. due to its industrial aesthetic, its speed of installation and its good resistance to small cracks, especially compared to simple paints or plastic coatings.
When the wall is made of plaster or drywall, the support is usually quite uniform. and absorbent, so in many systems it is not necessary to apply two full layers of base microcement. In these cases, it is recommended to use a suitable adhesion promoter, usually without mineral fillers, and to work with a slightly lighter scheme.
If the wall is made with cement and sand mortarThe microcement film will be subjected to greater stress. In this case, it is common practice to use two layers of base microcement over the mesh to provide greater body and strength to the assembly, reducing the risk of surface cracks over time.
In both cases, it is important to assess the planimetry and correct any irregularities.Microcement, due to its thinness, will not correct serious wall deformations, so it is advisable to plaster or repair beforehand those areas that are far out of plumb or have noticeable defects.
It is essential to pay attention to encounters, corners, and finishes With woodwork, baseboards, jambs, or ceilings. Good cutouts, protective tape, and clean trowel work in these areas make the difference between a professional finish and a shoddy one.
Microcement on interior floors
The microcement floors They are one of the most common uses in homes, offices, shops and restaurants, thanks to its continuous appearance, its resistance and the ease of integrating it into different decorative styles.
The application procedure in soils follows the general scheme describedPreparation and cleaning, priming, application of fiberglass mesh, two coats of base microcement, two coats of finishing microcement, and final sealing system. On floors, respecting curing times is even more critical because they will be subjected to foot traffic, furniture, and, in some cases, significant weight.
For high-traffic floors, it is advisable to choose microcement systems and sealants. Specifically formulated for high-traffic areas, they typically offer greater abrasion resistance, better stain resistance, and a longer lifespan, provided they are properly maintained.
The choice of sealant finish also influences the final aesthetic.It's common to find matte, satin, or gloss finishes. Matte finishes hide small scratches and fingerprints better, while satin provides a subtle sheen that's very appealing indoors. Gloss, although spectacular, makes signs of wear and tear more visible.
Once sealed, the microcement floor is very easy to clean. Use neutral products and slightly damp mops. Harsh detergents, waxes, or floor cleaners with abrasive components are not recommended, as they can gradually damage the sealant and reduce the system's protection.
Microcement in kitchens and bathrooms: uses and precautions
Microcement works especially well in kitchensIt can be used on floors, walls, countertops, and work surfaces. Its resistance to moderate heat, common chemicals, and splashes of water and grease makes it a very practical and aesthetically pleasing option. Furthermore, it is especially suitable for kitchens and bathrooms for its versatility indoors.
In bathrooms, the use extends from walls and floors to shower trayscountertops, integrated sinks, and bathtub surrounds. The seamless material reduces areas where dirt or mold can accumulate and makes daily cleaning easier.
However, the key in humid areas lies in the sealing system and its correct execution.A low-quality or improperly applied sealant can cause microcement to absorb water, resulting in stains, light veils, or uneven darkening in areas of frequent contact with water. It is advisable to follow guidelines regarding... How to protect the bathroom from water to avoid problems.
It is also important to respect the slopes in shower trays. and areas where water needs to drain. Since microcement is not a leveling mortar, slopes must be addressed with the structural base (mortar, prefabricated support, etc.), and then coated with the microcement system, maintaining the appropriate geometry.
In kitchens and bathrooms, it is advisable to take extra precautions against dampness.If there are leaks, internal condensation, or unresolved rising damp, microcement will not solve the structural problem, and over time, bubbles, detachment, or stains from the substrate may appear.
Tools and materials needed to apply microcement
To carry out a microcement project with guarantees, more than a couple of trowels are needed.Having the right tools makes the job easier, improves the finish, and reduces errors during application.
Basic tools include trowels and spatulas. of different sizes and materials (metal, rubber, mixed), rollers for primers and sealers, brushes for finishing, mixing buckets, electric mixer, sanders and sandpaper of different grits.
It is also essential to have fiberglass mesh with alkali protection.Masking tapes and plastic sheeting for surface protection, humidity measuring equipment, personal safety equipment (gloves, masks, goggles) and, depending on the case, tools for repairing and leveling the support (trowels, rulers, mortar, etc.).
In terms of materials, the components of the microcement system are needed.: primers or adhesion promoters specific to each substrate, base and finishing microcement in powder or ready to use (depending on the manufacturer), compatible pigments, pre-sealers and final sealers.
If the person applying has no prior experienceIt is highly recommended to dedicate time to reading the technical specifications, watching practical demonstrations, and, if possible, practicing on test surfaces before working on the final substrate. Many brands offer downloadable manuals and explanatory videos to guide professionals and advanced users.
In projects of a certain scale or with very demanding requirements (commercial premises, large continuous floors, integrated showers, surfaces subjected to intense wear), the most sensible thing is to use professional applicators trained by the brands themselves, since they handle the times, mixtures and real working conditions better.
Final recommendations for use and maintenance
Once the microcement has been applied and cured, maintenance is simple.However, it is advisable to follow some basic guidelines to prolong the life of the coating and maintain an impeccable appearance for years.
For daily cleaning, it is advisable to use neutral detergents.Avoid using highly alkaline or acidic products, or those containing strong solvents that could damage the sealant. A slightly damp mop or a well-wrung mop is sufficient to keep the floor or walls in good condition.
It is important to protect the areas subject to the greatest mechanical wear.For example, use felt pads on chair and table legs, place rugs in high-traffic areas, or take extra care when moving heavy furniture. Although microcement is resistant, very strong, localized impacts can mark the surface, especially the sealant.
In case of minor surface scratches or loss of shineMany systems allow for the renewal of only the sealant layer, after thorough cleaning and, sometimes, light sanding. This avoids having to work on the microcement itself and significantly extends the aesthetic life of the coating.
Detecting problems like dampness, leaks, or structural movement early It also helps to preserve the system. If bulging, detachment, or persistent stains are noticed, it's advisable to inspect the substrate and address the underlying issue before simply "covering up" the surface.
With a good system choice, proper substrate preparation, and meticulous applicationMicrocement becomes a very complete solution for interior floors and walls: continuous, resistant, customizable and capable of completely transforming a home or premises without the need for heavy construction or demolition, offering a comfortable user experience and a very modern aesthetic.
