Applying microcement: complete step-by-step guide

If you’ve reached this article, it’s probably because you’ve started researching how to apply microcement. So if microcement is your crush and it has completely stolen your heart, you’re in the right place to discover our guide.

Here we explain how to apply microcement step by step in a clear and simple way, without unnecessary jargon; the most common installation mistakes and how to avoid them, as well as the essential tools needed to apply microcement.

Applying microcement: quick summary of the steps

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.

  • STEP 1: Preparing the work surface
  • STEP 2: Applying the primer and fiberglass mesh
  • STEP 3: Applying the base or preparation microcement
  • STEP 4: Applying the finish microcement
  • STEP 5: Applying the pore sealer
  • STEP 6: Applying the varnish (sealer)

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.

Worker cleaning a tiled wall with a cloth before applying microcement.

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.

Worker filling tile joints with filler and a spatula before applying microcement.

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.

Worker applying primer with a roller on the surface before microcement application.

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.

Worker laying fiberglass mesh over tiles before applying microcement.

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.

Mixing microcement components in a bucket using a double-helix mixing paddle.

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.

Worker applying the first base coat of microcement with a trowel over tiles.

 

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.

Worker applying a finishing coat of microcement with a trowel on the surface.

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.

Using a protective sealer for microcement will protect the surface from daily wear, impacts, abrasion, and liquids such as water, helping to prevent stains. In addition, it will intensify the final color.

Depending on the type of microcement sealer, 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.

Worker applying a sealing varnish coat over microcement with a roller to protect the surface.
PROTECT YOUR FINISH

 

How to apply microcement depending on the type of surface

You have already seen the general steps for applying microcement on any surface. However, each substrate has technical particularities that must be taken into account during the application. Working on a horizontal surface is not the same as working on a vertical one, nor is applying microcement in high-humidity environments the same as in dry rooms.


Applying microcement on walls


To apply microcement on walls, the technique must be adapted to vertical surfaces. The trowel should be held at a 45° angle and moved in arched motions in different directions.

Applying microcement in showers


A microcement shower becomes the undisputed focal point of a bathroom. Although the installation process is very simple, it differs slightly because of the humidity conditions in the space where it is applied. If you want to know how ro apply microcement in a shower, you can read about it in our article.

Applying microcement on stairs

A growing decorative trend is using microcement on stairs. To apply it properly, certain aspects must be considered, such as protecting the edges or leaving them with a slightly rounded finish.

Applying microcement on tables

A microcement table catches everyone’s attention as soon as they enter the living room. To apply microcement on tables, it is essential to follow the thin-layer application technique in order to achieve the desired result.


Applying microcement over tiles

It is possible to use microcement over tiles without having to remove or sand them beforehand. This makes it the perfect decorative coating for renovating your tiled surfaces without building work.

CHOOSE THE KIT YOU NEED



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.

Living room with Mojave-colored microcement walls, beige sofa, and natural light streaming in through the large window.

Inadequate ambient temperature

Before applying microcement, it is important to check that the conditions in the room are suitable. Microcement must be applied when the ambient, substrate and material temperature is between 15°C and 25°C, and when the relative humidity is between 40% and 80%. Working within this range provides the best application conditions and helps achieve an optimal finish, avoiding very cold or very hot days, which could cause excess humidity or the material to dry too quickly.

It is common for renovations to be carried out above or below this range. If that is your case, it is advisable to condition the room beforehand. From +5°C, a heating system can be used to provide uniform and gradual warming, avoiding directing heat sources straight onto the substrate. If temperatures exceed +30°C, the temperature can be lowered by ventilating during the coolest hours of the day, avoiding direct sunlight and, if necessary, using air conditioning or ambient cooling indirectly.

It is also important not to apply microcement on cold, frozen, frosty or condensation-covered substrates, nor on overheated surfaces, surfaces exposed to direct sunlight or surfaces subjected to wind or draughts. These conditions could cause premature water evaporation, loss of adhesion, trowel marks, porosity, surface cracking or colour differences. Once the area has been conditioned, environmental conditions must remain stable throughout the entire application and drying process of the system in order to avoid problems in the final finish.


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.


Frequently Asked Questions About Applying Microcement

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