Finish Guide
Microcement
A thin, seamless cementitious coating for walls, floors and furniture.
The short answer
Microcement is a thin, polymer-modified cementitious coating applied in layers to give a seamless, concrete-like finish on walls, floors and joinery. Whether it suits a floor or a wet area depends on the specific system, its preparation layers and its sealer. It is not waterproof by nature, and it needs a stable, sound substrate, because movement shows as cracks.
What it is
A thin cement-based coating with polymers, applied by trowel in several layers and then sealed. Systems differ in their base and finishing layers, reinforcement mesh, primers and sealers.
How it looks
A seamless, softly mottled concrete look without grout lines, from matt to a light sheen depending on the sealer.
Where it is commonly used
- Feature walls and living-area floors
- Bathroom walls, only where the specified system and waterproofing allow
- Countertops and built-in furniture
Surfaces and conditions it may suit
- Stable, sound, dry substrates
- Areas where a seamless look is wanted
Preparation
- The substrate must be stable: movement and cracks underneath are likely to show through.
- Moisture must be dealt with first. In showers and other wet areas, waterproofing is a separate, specified layer, not something the microcement provides on its own.
- The product's technical data sheet is the authority on preparation, primers, number of coats, coverage and drying between coats.
Application complexity
Specialist applicator Several thin trowelled layers plus sealing; results depend heavily on the applicator and the system.
Cleaning and maintenance
- Clean with the products the system allows; harsh cleaners can damage the sealer.
- The sealer protects the surface and may need renewing, especially on floors.
Limitations and drawbacks
- Not inherently waterproof: wet areas depend on the specified waterproofing and sealing.
- Prone to cracking over unstable or moving substrates.
- Repairs are hard to make invisible.
Common misconceptions
- “Microcement is waterproof.”
- Water resistance depends on the full system, including any waterproofing layer and sealer, not the microcement alone.
- “It can go straight over old tiles anywhere.”
- Some systems allow it over sound, well-bonded tiles with specific preparation; others don't. The system decides.
Questions to ask before choosing
- Which system is specified, and does it include waterproofing for wet areas?
- Is the substrate stable, and how will joints and cracks be treated?
- Which sealer is used, and how often will it need renewing?
- Can you see completed work in a similar area in person?
FinishGrid tools and guides
When a professional assessment may help
Worth considering before using microcement in bathrooms, on floors or over existing tiles, where the substrate and system matter most.
Other finishes
- Interior Matt & Silk Finishes
- Exterior Smooth Coating Systems
- Textured Wall Coatings
- Gloss & Enamel Finishes
- Stone- & Granite-Effect Coatings
- Venetian Plaster
- Metallic & Decorative Effects
Choosing colours as well? See Colour Inspiration and the colour chart.
Plan the next step
Check what the wall needs first, check that a quotation specifies the right system, or ask for advice on your project.
Free tool
Check My Wall
Damp, cracks or peeling? Check what the wall needs before choosing a finish.
Free tool
Check My Quote
See whether a quotation includes the preparation and system your finish needs.
Free tool
Project Estimator
A planning budget for interior walls, exterior walls or a textured finish.
Paid service
Paint, Colour & Finish Consultation
A paid FinishGrid Advisory service: written, brand-neutral advice on colours and finishes for your actual property, scoped with you first.