Microcement is a polymer-modified cement-based coating used for both interior and exterior applications. It is highly appreciated in the construction and design industries due to its versatility and aesthetic qualities. The primary components of microcement include a blend of cement, water-based resins, additives, and mineral pigments, which together result in a material that can adhere to almost any type of surface, be it floors, walls, ceilings, or even furniture. The application of microcement creates a smooth, seamless surface, eliminating the need for joints or breaks that are typical in traditional flooring or wall covering materials. Its continuity offers a sleek, modern look and helps in creating visually larger and unified spaces. Available in a variety of colors and textures, microcement allows for customization to match any design or decor. From matte to glossy finishes, rough to smooth textures, the design possibilities with microcement are extensive. Additionally, despite its thin layer application of around 2-3mm, microcement is notably durable and resistant to wear and tear, making it a viable choice for high-traffic areas. One significant advantage of microcement is its minimal impact on structural load. Given its thin application, the material does not significantly increase the weight or load on the building's structure, making it an excellent option for remodeling or renovation projects. It can be applied directly to the existing surface, which not only simplifies the installation process but also reduces construction time and costs. In summary, microcement is a versatile, aesthetically pleasing, and practical material for covering a variety of surfaces. Its ease of application, wide range of design options, and high durability make it a popular choice in modern construction and interior design.

Microcement can be successfully applied on a wide range of substrates, including cement mortar, self-levelling mortar, terrazzo, marble, tile, plaster, plasterboard and metal. It's compatible with both vertical and horizontal surfaces, and can be used in interior and exterior settings. However, it is not advised to apply microcement on natural wood or on substrates composed of pieces that may have differing rates of expansion. The key requirement for any substrate is that it must be stable, level, free of dirt, and possess a humidity level of less than 5%.

1. Surface Preparation: The first step involves cleaning and preparing the surface. The surface must be free from dust, grease, old paint, or anything that may prevent the microcement from bonding effectively. If applying to a tiled surface, it should be checked to ensure it is solidly adhered and stable. 2. Primer Application: Next, a primer is applied to the surface to ensure good adhesion of the microcement. The primer also helps seal the surface and prevent any moisture problems. It's left to dry before proceeding. 3. First Layer of Microcement: After the primer has dried, the first layer of microcement base is applied using a trowel. This layer, often referred to as a scratch coat, is left to dry. 4. Second Layer of Microcement: Once the first layer has dried, a second layer of base coat is applied. This layer also needs to dry completely before proceeding. 5. Sanding: After the base layers have dried, the surface is sanded to remove any irregularities and to prepare it for the finishing layers. 6. Finishing Layers: Two layers of the finer finish microcement are applied, each one needing to dry and be sanded before the next layer is applied. 7. Sealing: Once the finishing layers are completed and dry, the surface is sealed. The sealer protects the microcement from wear and tear, water, stains, and helps to enhance the color. Several coats of sealer may be required. 8. Polishing: The final step is polishing the sealed surface for a smooth, flawless finish.

Versatility: It can be applied on nearly any type of substrate and on both vertical and horizontal surfaces, including floors, walls, ceilings, and even furniture. Aesthetic appeal: Microcement offers a sleek, modern look with a wide range of colors and finishes. Seamless: It creates a continuous, joint-free surface. Durability: It's resistant to traffic, knocks, scratches, and chemicals, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. Water resistance: With the application of a suitable sealer, microcement can become water-resistant. Low thickness: The material is very thin (2-3 mm), so it does not significantly impact the structural load of the building. Eco-friendly: Microcement is made from natural materials, making it a sustainable choice. Easy Maintenance: It's easy to clean and maintain, and it provides a germ and bacteria-resistant surface. Quick installation: The application process is quicker and less disruptive than traditional renovations, with no rubble or major construction work required.

Microcement itself is not waterproof. However, when a proper sealer is applied as a finishing layer, it becomes water-resistant. Therefore, with appropriate finishing, microcement can be effectively used in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas exposed to water or humidity.

The application process of microcement typically takes between 5 to 7 days, depending on the size and complexity of the project. This includes surface preparation, application of multiple microcement layers, and final sealing. However, the microcement continues to harden and gain full strength over several weeks after the application. It is also recommended to be careful with the surface during the first week after the work has been completed, as it's still acquiring its full hardness and resistance.

The cost of Luxury Concrete microcement application ranges from $120 to $200 AUD per square meter. This includes the cost of materials and labor. However, this is a general estimation and the exact cost can vary depending on the specifics of the project, such as the condition of the substrate, the complexity of the work, and other specific requirements. The cost of purchasing microcement material alone typically ranges from $40 to $50. Please contact a local Luxury Concrete representative for a more precise quote.

Yes, microcement can be applied directly over existing tiles, thanks to its excellent adherence properties. This advantage means you can avoid the time-consuming and messy process of removing the original tile surface. Microcement is often more expensive than tiles due to several factors: 1. Manual labor: The application process of microcement is labor-intensive as it requires professional hand troweling of multiple layers to achieve the desired result. 2. Unique aesthetic: Microcement offers a unique, seamless aesthetic that isn't achievable with tiles. It can be customized to a wide variety of colors and finishes, offering a more premium and bespoke result. 3. Versatility: Microcement can be applied to floors, walls, ceilings, and even furniture, both in interior and exterior spaces. It adheres to a variety of substrates, unlike tiles which have more limitations. 4. Durability and maintenance: Microcement is highly durable, resistant to traffic, knocks, scratches, and chemical products. Furthermore, it's water-resistant and easy to clean, which adds to its long-term value. Therefore, while the upfront cost might be higher than tiles, the versatility, aesthetics, and durability of microcement often make it a worthwhile investment.

Microcement is designed to be a highly durable and flexible material, which makes it resistant to cracking under normal conditions. If applied correctly by a professional on a stable and suitable substrate, and if the surface is well-maintained, microcement should not crack. However, like any material, it can be subject to cracking if there are major movements in the substrate, such as structural shifts in the building, or if it is subjected to extreme physical stress. Also, if the application process is not done correctly, it can lead to problems like cracking. To prevent such issues, it's important to ensure that the substrate is stable before application, and that the microcement is properly sealed and maintained after application. Luxury Concrete microcement products come with warranties to give customers peace of mind about their durability.

Yes, microcement can be applied over underfloor heating systems. However, it's crucial to follow specific protocols to prevent cracks caused by temperature changes in the substrate. Here's the recommended process: 1.Turn on the heating at least 4 weeks after laying the cement mortar or other base layer. 2, Keep the inlet water to the circuits at about 25°C for 2 to 3 days. Gradually increase the water temperature to 45°C and maintain it for a few days. 3. Switch off the heating at least 48 hours before starting the microcement installation. The maximum floor temperature should be around 18°C. 4. Apply the microcement on a cementitious mortar or other suitable substrate that has reached an advanced setting stage. This typically happens after three to four weeks, depending on the weather. Please always change the temperature gradually at the start and end of the heating period. Ensure that the relative humidity in the rooms is not too low and avoid heat buildup caused by carpets and rugs or lack of space between the furniture and the floor. Also, it's important to note that there must be an expansion joint between the screed and the vertical walls to allow the screed to expand. If not observed, cracks may appear.

Microcement and polished concrete are both popular choices for flooring and walls due to their modern, industrial aesthetics. However, there are several key differences between them: 1. Thickness and Weight: Microcement is a thin coating of around 2-3mm thickness that can be applied to almost any existing surface, adding minimal weight and volume. Polished concrete, on the other hand, is a heavy and thick layer of concrete that's ground and polished to achieve a smooth, shiny finish. 2. Application: Microcement can be applied not only to floors but also walls and even furniture, both indoors and outdoors. Polished concrete is mainly used for floors and is more suited for large, open spaces. 3. Seamless Surface: Microcement offers a seamless surface without joints, providing a uniform and continuous look. Polished concrete, due to its nature, often requires expansion joints and can show cracks if the concrete slab beneath shifts or settles. 4. Flexibility: Microcement is more flexible than polished concrete. This quality reduces the risk of cracking due to minor shifts or movements in the substrate. 5. Customizability: While both materials can be customized in terms of color and finish, microcement offers a wider range of textures and colors. The final appearance of polished concrete is largely determined by the aggregate used in the concrete mix. 6. Installation and Drying Time: Microcement application is a quicker process and has a shorter drying time compared to polished concrete, which can be an advantage in remodeling projects.