If you’ve landed on this blog post, chances are you’ve started researching microcement and discovered all its features, scrolling through photo after photo like it was your latest crush — and it’s completely stolen your heart, right? Welcome to the wonderful and versatile world of microcement.
Now that you’re convinced it deserves a place in your home, make yourself comfortable and grab some popcorn, or prepare a tea or coffee. While it cools down, we’ll explain how to apply microcement step by step in a clear and straightforward way — no fluff, no complications. We’ll also cover the most common installation mistakes and how to avoid them, as well as the essential tools you’ll need to apply microcement properly.
Ready to dive into our step-by-step guide?
How to apply microcement in 6 easy steps
Straight to the point — no half measures. Let’s start by answering the key question: how to apply microcement.
The microcement application process isn’t a rigid, one-size-fits-all system. It’s a dynamic procedure, which means you’ll never find a single universal method that works in every situation. While the application of microcement does share common elements, the exact process varies depending on several factors. For example, the tools, materials and even the steps involved will depend on the type of microcement used (cement-based, lime-based, epoxy-based, acrylic, etc.) as well as its composition (single-component, two-component or ready-to-use microcement).
Once it’s clear that installation varies depending on these factors, keep reading to discover the general steps for applying microcement.
1. Surface preparation
For a proper microcement application, the substrate must be in optimal condition. Otherwise, problems will appear over time. The surface must be free of dust, grease and residues from other materials, and it must not have cracks or moisture issues. At the same time, it’s essential to ensure that the surface is perfectly level before applying microcement.
Preparing the substrate means making sure it is level and free from cracks, breaks or flaking. Since microcement is a decorative coating with a minimum thickness of around 3 mm, any unevenness or imperfection in the substrate will be transferred to the final finish, potentially causing the microcement to crack.
In addition, if there are joints — common in porcelain surfaces or materials such as tiles — they must be filled with a specific joint filler so they are no longer visible. In this case, the filler must be left to dry completely, which usually takes around 24 hours.
2. Applying the primer and the mesh
The next step is to ensure proper adhesion by applying a primer that allows the microcement to bond correctly to the existing surface. Choosing the right primer is crucial, as surfaces can be either absorbent (such as concrete or cement) or non-absorbent (such as tiles or porcelain). Each type has different characteristics and requirements, so a specific primer is needed for each one.
There are various primers available on the market, and since they don’t all behave in the same way, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely, especially regarding application method and drying times.
After applying the primer, in many cases it is necessary to install a fiberglass mesh — particularly on floors, although not always required on walls. The purpose of this mesh is to reinforce the strength and stability of the microcement coating, helping to prevent cracks and improving its overall performance.
Once the primer and the mesh (if required) have been applied, it’s essential to respect the drying times specified by the manufacturer. Complete drying usually ranges from 20 minutes to 2–3 hours, depending on the product. When applying microcement, rushing the process is never an option.
3. Applying the base microcement
Now that the substrate is properly prepared and ready to receive the microcement, it’s time to start the actual decorative process. The first question to ask yourself is: what type of base microcement system are you using? As explained earlier, the application process varies depending on its composition.
With a two-component system, the microcement must be mixed with a resin and then pigmented. With a single-component system, water is added instead of resin, along with the required amount of pigment. However, if you opt for a ready-to-use microcement, the process becomes much simpler: there’s no need to add resin or water, and no need to measure pigments. As the name suggests, it’s ready to use.
Once the mix is prepared (if required), it is applied with a trowel in thin, even layers. Each layer must dry for the time specified by the manufacturer — typically between 4 and 6 hours per coat, and sometimes up to 8 hours — and then be sanded to achieve a smooth surface. This step usually requires two coats. The process is the same for each one: apply evenly, allow to dry, and sand.
In some systems, such as Smartcret, the process is even simpler, as the microcement is applied directly with a polyamide roller and then smoothed with a trowel.
4: Applying the finishing microcement
Now it’s time to focus on the finishing microcement, which is responsible for giving the surface its final texture and desired colour. As with the base microcement explained in the previous step, the application process will depend on the system you have chosen (two-component, single-component or ready-to-use). This means you may need to mix it with resin, water and pigment — or with nothing at all.
The application process is the same as in the previous step. Once the mixture is ready (if required), it is applied with a trowel in thin, even layers. Each layer must dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions — usually between 4 and 6 hours, and in some cases up to 8 hours — and then be sanded. Depending on the type of microcement used, the sandpaper grit will typically range from 80 to 220.
As in the previous step, Smartcret simplifies the application of the finishing microcement: first apply it with a roller, then smooth it with a trowel.
In most cases, two coats are applied at this stage. The process is the same for each one, so patience is key — and let’s get back to the microcement.
5: Applying the pore sealer
Depending on the type of microcement chosen, it may or may not be necessary to apply a pore sealer before the varnish or sealing product. The pore sealer provides an initial layer of protection and resistance, and acts as the bonding layer between the microcement and the varnish.
This product is usually applied with a roller, and typically two coats are recommended.
6: Sealing the microcement
This step is absolutely essential and should never be skipped. Even if it looks like the microcement application is finished, it’s not quite done yet. The surface may already look great, but there’s one final step left: sealing it.
Applying a varnish protects the surface from daily wear, impacts, abrasions and liquids such as water, preventing stains and damage. It also enhances and intensifies the final colour of the microcement.
Depending on the type of sealing varnish, it may need to be mixed with a component B. Just like microcement systems, some varnishes are single-component and ready to use, meaning no additional products are required. Regardless of the system, all of them provide increased chemical and mechanical resistance.
The sealer is applied with a roller in 2 or 3 coats, depending on the varnish used, allowing it to dry completely. Drying times usually range from around 4 hours between coats up to 24 hours, and in some cases light sanding between coats is recommended. As always, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding application methods and drying times.
What tools do you need to apply microcement?
Before starting the process, make sure you have everything you’ll need. Below is a list of essential tools and accessories for applying microcement:
- Masking tape: to define the working area and protect surfaces that won’t be coated.
- Buckets and brushes: for mixing and applying products.
- Rollers: for applying the primer and the sealer.
- Trowels: for applying the microcement.
- Spatulas: for corners and edges.
- Sandpaper: to smooth the surface between coats.
Other tools that are recommended, but not always essential:
- Gloves and mask: for personal protection during application.
- Electric mixer or double-helix mixing paddle: depending on whether the product needs to be mixed with water or resin.
- Electric sander and ceramic mesh discs: useful for large surfaces, although manual sanding is perfectly possible.
Most common mistakes when applying microcement
Now that you know how to apply microcement properly, let’s go over the most common mistakes made during application and, most importantly, how to avoid them to achieve a flawless result.
Inadequate ambient temperature
The ideal ambient temperature for applying microcement is between 15°C and 25°C.
If the temperature is too low, the microcement will take much longer to dry. If it’s too high, it will dry too quickly, without respecting the drying times specified by the manufacturer.
Not respecting drying times
If you sometimes feel tempted to rush things… we get it. However, one of the most common mistakes when applying microcement is not allowing each layer to dry properly.
For optimal results, patience is key: respect the drying time between coats to avoid defects later on.
Applying layers that are too thick
The idea of “the more, the better” doesn’t apply here. Applying thick layers will not speed up the process—quite the opposite. Thick coats greatly increase the risk of cracks and fissures.
Always remember: thin layers are the right way to go.
Poor surface preparation
A well-prepared surface is the foundation of a successful microcement application.
If the surface has cracks, residue from other materials or uneven areas, adhesion will be compromised and imperfections will eventually show through the microcement.
Tip: repair everything beforehand. Microcement is a decorative coating, not a repair or levelling product.
Negative moisture
Negative moisture is common in humid environments and can sometimes be invisible to the naked eye.
The best way to prevent problems caused by this type of moisture is to apply a proper primer. This prevents moisture from migrating and staining the finished microcement surface.
Incorrect pigment mixing
If the manufacturer’s instructions are not followed when mixing the pigment, lumps and irregularities may appear, and the colour may turn out uneven.
Poor or incorrect sealing
Failing to seal microcement correctly is another very common mistake.
The varnish or sealing product is what gives microcement its water resistance and, in many cases, its anti-slip properties.
Incompatible materials
Choosing the right materials according to the surface is essential.
Absorbent surfaces behave very differently from non-absorbent ones, which means the primer must also be different. Choosing the wrong materials can lead to a complete failure of the system.
Low-quality materials
If you want top-quality results, you need top-quality materials.
Cutting costs on material quality almost always leads to cracks, fissures or detachment over time.
Poor-quality or unsuitable tools
The same applies to tools. Using low-quality or unsuitable tools can ruin the final finish.
Saving a few cents on tools is like giving a marker to a toddler: the result won’t be what you expected. The final look of your microcement depends largely on the tools you choose.
Can I Apply Microcement Myself?
As you’ve probably realised by now, applying microcement requires skill, careful handling of tools and a good dose of patience throughout the process. For that reason, it’s not a task that’s suitable for everyone.
With most traditional microcement systems, we don’t recommend doing it yourself for two main reasons. First, professional applicators have years of training and hands-on experience behind them. Second, they are fully aware that they work with materials that can be harmful to health if not handled correctly, as some cement-based products contain components that are not particularly safe.
That’s why, in most cases, you need an applicator who truly understands the process. Unless you’re already part of the trade, applying microcement can easily turn into a real challenge…
Or maybe not—if you choose Smartcret ready-to-use microcement.
Ready-to-use microcement is designed so that anyone can apply it without technical knowledge or relying on a professional installer. It’s made from water-based resins, additives and mineral pigments (yes, it comes pre-pigmented. And yes, “ready to use” means exactly what you think).
It’s a decorative coating created to simplify and speed up the process of how to apply microcement. You can apply it yourself in full DIY mode: just open it, stir it and start applying it—no mesh required, as Smartcret ready-to-use microcement doesn’t need one.
It can be applied on interior surfaces without construction work or hiring a professional. The application is very straightforward, although it varies depending on the surface or area you want to coat: floors, walls, bathrooms, tables, fireplaces…
And if, after learning the process, you feel inspired to apply microcement yourself, you can explore our ready-to-use kits and start transforming any space in your home.
Microcement Application Summary
In short, whether you hire a professional or decide to apply it yourself, it’s essential to follow the microcement application process step by step. Otherwise, the final result will not meet your expectations.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Applying Microcement
Do I need to use mesh when applying microcement?
On floors, using fiberglass mesh is highly recommended, as it helps reinforce areas prone to structural movement and stress. Its main function is to increase resistance and stability.
However, with Smartcret,
mesh is not required because the product is applied in thin layers, is more flexible than traditional systems and, thanks to its acrylic-based formulation, does not shrink.
What tools do I need to apply microcement?
To apply microcement, you’ll need: gloves, a mask, masking tape, buckets, brushes, a mixing paddle, a short-nap roller, steel and rubber trowels, sandpaper or a sander. Ceramic mesh sanding discs are not essential but highly recommended, as they reduce dust.
How do I clean the tools used to apply microcement?
To avoid product buildup that could affect the next step, we recommend cleaning your tools in a bucket of water between each stage.
On which surfaces can microcement be applied?
Microcement can be applied on kitchens, bathrooms, walls, floors, tables, fireplaces and stairs. It is compatible with tiles, slabs, mosaic tiles, porcelain, ceramic, plasterboard, gypsum, cement, concrete, terrazzo, marble and mortar.
Where should microcement not be applied?
It should not be applied on wood, parquet, plastic or metal surfaces, nor on surfaces with cracks or unevenness unless they are repaired beforehand.
Can cracks or fissures appear after applying microcement?
Yes, if the surface is not properly prepared or if thick layers are applied. If all application steps are followed correctly, cracks and fissures should not appear.
How do I maintain microcement over time?
To protect the surface and maintain its original shine, it’s advisable to renew the varnish or sealing product once a year. In high-traffic areas, such as floors, it may be necessary to do so twice a year. For extra care, you can also check out our tips on how to clean and maintain microcement at home.
Why is it recommended to apply microcement in thin layers?
Because microcement is a continuous coating with very low thickness. The thicker the layers, the higher the risk of cracks, fissures or detachment. The correct method is to apply several thin layers to ensure a flawless result.
