Insights on Microcement: Pros and Common Mistakes to Avoid
Microcement has gained tremendous popularity in recent years for both interior and exterior design. This innovative coating is now a go-to choice for renovating homes and businesses, thanks to its many benefits.
In this article, we will explore the key advantages and disadvantages of this versatile continuous coating. Our goal is to provide clarity and help answer any questions you might have about it.
- No construction or debris with microcement.
One of the most significant advantages of microcement. There is no need to use machinery because the coating is continuous and does not require expansion joints. Microcement is applied to the surface material being renovated, such as a floor, wall, ceiling, swimming pool, or furniture. There is no building work necessary, hence no rubble is generated. Not to mention the sense of spaciousness it adds to any environment.
- The thickness of the microcement does not alter the structural load.
One of the most distinguishing features of microcement is its thinness, which ranges between 2 and 3 mm. This benefit means that whatever material is used to apply the smoothed microcement coating, the structural load of the building will be unaffected.
- Underfloor heating in microcement
The final but not least advantage of microcement is its high thermal conductivity. Smoothed microcement has the advantage of being entirely compatible with underfloor heating. In reality, it is one of the most effective building materials for underfloor heating.
- Microcement offers a variety of finishes and hues.
The textures that may be created with microcement are unique. Multiple finishes are available based on the application, pigment choice, and, most importantly, sealer employed.
We offer a wide range of varnishes to suit the finish you want for the surface coated with smoothed microcement: gloss, matte, super matte, satin, and even non-slip and waterproof.
Because of the extensive microcement color palette, this coating can be customized to any degree. Pigments that give surfaces their own identity.
Making errors in microcement applications.
The steps for applying microcement are highly specialized. Changing the order or making mistakes in the procedure, particularly in priming and sealing, will result in an undesired outcome. As a result, we insist on having a competent applicator install smoothed microcement. The most common microcement application mistakes are described below.
- Mixing the microcement pigment wrong.
Pigmenting microcement appropriately is critical. If the directions are not strictly followed, there may be an excess of clusters, resulting in dark streaks on the microcement coating surface.
The pigment should also be briskly stirred until the liquid is uniform and free of defects. Then, pour a small amount of the mixing liquid into a container, add all of the pigment, and stir thoroughly.
- Using microcement at too low or too high a temperature.
The recommended temperature range for applying microcement is 15ºC to 25ºC. Installing the coating at temperatures below 15ºC or above 25ºC may cause issues.
If the temperature is too low, which happens throughout the winter, the microcement-coated surface may take a long time to harden properly. On the other side, if the temperature is too high, the micro cement will harden prematurely.
- Not following the steps when placing microcement.
Certain processes must be performed precisely when applying microcement. Failure to adhere to them can have serious consequences for the end outcome.
The application of microcement to floors or walls, for example, is not the same. The type of smoothed microcement to be used varies. Similarly, failing to prepare and level the existing substrate to be coated can result in significant complications in the future.
Neither can you make mistakes in the priming of the substrate or in the sealing of the substrate.