Concrete Look / Microcement, also known as micro-screed or micro-concrete, is a polymer modified cement-based coating which can be applied thinly to walls, stairs and floors in domestic and commercial environments. As a result of strong bonding power, microcement can be applied to almost any surface including wood and tiles, and existing concrete flooring surfaces.
Microcement Summary
Modern, Industrial look and concrete aesthetic
Choice of colour, tone and finish
Less prone to cracking
Hygenic and hypoallergenic
Anti slip
Microcement has become an increasingly popular material amongst interior designers, homeowners and business owners looking to achieve an industrial interior and concrete aesthetic where it would not normally be possible. It is perfect for those wishing to achieve a completely seamless floor finish that is grout-free and aligns with contemporary and modernistic trends. Microcement is a great option for kitchens, living areas, bathrooms and wet rooms because of the ability to completely customise the material in terms of colour, tone and finish. The material also lends itself well to functionality and practicality by offering hygienic and hypoallergenic properties to create a clean and stain-free surface environment. Furthermore, clients can benefit from anti-slip properties which are ideal for environments where children and the elderly will be frequent visitors and high traffic loads will be present.
Microcement vs Polished concrete
What is great about microcement flooring (something you don’t get with traditional polished concrete flooring) is you’re able to see and choose the colour, tone and finished design of your flooring system before it is installed. This means there are no unexpected design and/or flooring failures which often arise after installing polished concrete.
Furthermore, the flexible nature of microcement means the material is less prone to cracking, when installed on an elastic mortar layer, which is one of the significant downfalls often associated with concrete floors. As such, clients can expect longevity, durability and a hardwearing flooring system.
Where domestic environments are concerned, there is no problem if at a later date you choose to redecorate or renovate the living area in which microcement has previously been installed. Microcement is highly versatile meaning you’re open to change your mind in the future if you wish to alter the colour, tone and/or design finish of your flooring system. What is more, if you decide in later years that your micro-cement flooring isn’t in line with your current interior design or the latest trends, you have the option to install almost any flooring system on-top of micro-cement.
Microcement Advantages
Choices of finish – you’ll be able to choose the type of t finish you require..
No joins – As explained previously, microcement offers a seamless, smooth surface.
A range of applications – microcement looks great for interiors on the floor and/or on the walls.
Handcrafted application – our experienced installers have many years of experience in applying microcement.
Covers a wide range of surfaces – ordinarily, you would need to remove all flooring before adding a new floor. Microcement can be applied to a range of surfaces such as tile, concrete or marble.
Longevity – microcement is durable, shock and scratch resistant as well as chemical resistant. This makes for a very durable surface.
Water resistant – with the aid of a sealer, the surface is water resistant, so it’s great for wet areas such as bathrooms and wet rooms.
Thin application – the 2/3 mm material build up, will not affect the load bearing capacity of the room.
Natural materials – microcement uses environmentally friendly materials, minimising environmental damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can you use Microcement? Microcement can be used in a variety of applications and looks great in kitchens, bathrooms, counters, walls, wet rooms and just about any open contemporary space.. The finish looks particularly good If you have a large open area such as a kitchen diner and you are looking for a modern, contemporary finish.
How do you maintain Microcement? One of the best things about microcement is that there are zero joins. Joins in traditional flooring options such as tiles or laminate flooring can trap dirt and grime as well as food and crumbs, making them a breeding ground for bacteria. The smooth microcement finish allows for easy maintenance. You’ll just need to wipe the surface over with water and a very mild detergent with a pH value of over 6. It’s advisable to clean a smaller area first to ensure that there will be no damage or staining. Always use clean cleaning equipment when cleaning your microcement floor.
Is Microcement hard and durable? Simply put, yes. Microcement is incredibly hard and resistant, being suitable for high traffic areas and staying consistent visually for years to come. Being made from cement, Microcement is even resistant to the elements, and it will be hard to damage your floors and walls when they are coated with it.
Can I choose my design? Microcement is designed to give a certain appeal. With a range of different shades and finish options available. Microcement can be used in a host of different scenarios.Microcement gives a chic industrial look and can be finished with a matt or silk finish. Due to the nature of microcement, no two floors will look the same.
What surface can microcement be laid on? Microcement has been designed to be a very flexible product. You can apply it to concrete, cement, wood, mortar, tiles, plaster, stoneware, metal, plastic, or plasterboard, all will just require different preparation methods.
Is Microcement waterproof? Microcement, once sealed, naturally offers a high degree of stain and water resistance without any sort of treatment. For bathrooms and other spaces which are wet on a regular basis, though, we recommend that you have your Microcement treated to obtain complete waterproofing. The texture of microcement can even be modified to ensure that it stays nice and grippy when wet.
Is Microcement hygienic? Grouting lines on traditional tiles or floors would often trap dirt and bacteria. Thanks to the waterproof nature of Microcement, along with the fact that you don’t need grouting lines with this sort of material, Microcement is a very hygienic product for home use.
How long does Microcement take to apply? We advise that you wait for a couple of days before placing heavy furniture on the floor, but we would also recommend not dragging heavy objects across the floor and consider rubber ends to chairs etc.. The procedure itself will usually take between three to five days, but this will depend on the size of your room and the complexity of the job being done.
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