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The SurfaceLab system

Microcement is a system, not a single coating.

The correct build-up changes with the substrate, environment, expected movement, application and required finish.

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Staircase and floor with a continuous microcement finish

Build sequence

A complete layered approach.

Configure the application, substrate and condition to explore an initial five-stage sequence. The precise system still needs to suit the surface, exposure and project requirements.

Environment
1 to 500 m², in 0.5 m² increments.

This is an initial system guide. Project-specific preparation and compatibility still require review.

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System build-up
Recommended system

Use the layer controls to create a custom build-up. Custom counts require review.

Surface PrepRequired1coat
Base CoatRequired2coats
Finishing CoatRequired2coats
Penetrating SealerRequired1coat
Protective SealerRequired2coats

Wet Area floor over tiles / non-porous. Surface Prep: 1 coat, Required. Base Coat: 2 coats, Required. Finishing Coat: 2 coats, Required. Penetrating Sealer: 1 coat, Required. Protective Sealer: 2 coats, Required

Proposed sequence

Wet Area floor over tiles / non-porous

  1. 01Surface PrepPrimers and reinforcement1 coatRequired
  2. 02Base CoatBuild structure and strength2 coatsRequired
  3. 03Finishing CoatTexture and appearance2 coatsRequired
  4. 04Penetrating SealerInitial stain resistance1 coatRequired
  5. 05Protective SealerFinal durability and wear protection2 coatsRequired
Review before specification

Wet areas need waterproofing compatibility checked before coating.

Substrate first

The coating cannot solve every problem below it.

Concrete, tiles, waterproofed surfaces, render and plasterboard-like constructed surfaces all require different preparation. Existing cracks or movement risk must be considered before decorative work begins.

Detailed hand application of microcement

Choose an application

Different surfaces ask different questions.

Explore practical considerations for floors, walls and bathrooms before selecting a system.

Hallway with a continuous microcement floor

Flooring

Stability, reinforcement, traffic and protection.

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Interior with a textured green feature wall

Walls

Substrate transitions, curves and controlled decorative texture.

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Shower with continuous decorative wall finishes

Bathrooms

Decorative finish, waterproofing and protective layers kept distinct.

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View all FAQs
What is microcement?

Microcement is a hand-applied decorative surface finish installed as a layered system. A complete build can include substrate assessment and preparation, compatible primer, reinforcement where required, base coats, finishing coats and protective sealers. The correct build depends on the surface, its condition, the environment and the intended use.

Is microcement the same as microconcrete, microtopping or concrete overlay?

These names are often used for related thin decorative coating systems, but they are not reliable product specifications. Formulation, layer sequence, preparation and protection can differ between manufacturers. Compare the complete documented system for the intended application rather than choosing by the label alone.

What is the difference between microcement and polished concrete?

Microcement is a hand-applied coating system installed over a suitable prepared substrate. Polished concrete is the concrete surface itself, mechanically processed to create the finish. Microcement can be considered for walls and built forms as well as floors, while polished concrete is primarily associated with concrete slabs and floors.

What is the difference between microcement and tiles?

Tiles are individual units separated by grout lines. Microcement is applied by hand to form a continuous decorative surface. It may sometimes be installed over stable existing tiles, but this depends on tile adhesion, joints, movement, moisture and the preparation system. It should not be selected simply to avoid assessing the existing surface.

Plan the system before the quantity.

Request a project review or configure an initial layer sequence before confirming compatibility and current product information.

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Microcement Systems | SurfaceLab