A decorative finish within a complete wet-area system.

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.

Microcement can be used as a decorative finish within an appropriately designed wet-area system. The compliant waterproofing, substrate, falls, junctions, penetrations, preparation products and protective sealer all need to work together. Microcement should not be treated as an automatic replacement for the required waterproofing system.

It can be considered over tiles that are firmly bonded and form a stable substrate. The surface needs cleaning and compatible preparation, while joints, lippage, contamination, moisture and movement must be addressed. Loose tiles or a failed wet-area build cannot be corrected simply by coating over them.

It may be applied over a suitable compliant membrane when the membrane and coating system are compatible. The membrane must be correctly installed and the surface needs the preparation required by the specified microcement system. Compatibility should be confirmed before the decorative work begins.