How to Apply Microcement: Everything You Need to Know

In this exclusive section for mikrosement professionals, you will find numerous tips from our team of experts on how to apply microcement on walls, floors, interiors, exteriors, and swimming pools.

You will learn which type of microcement is most appropriate depending on the surface to be covered and the existing material, as well as the specific tools you need to apply microcement for an optimal result: spatulas, trowels, rollers, etc.

In this section, you will also find the different microcement application techniques based on the desired finish. Microcement is a coating that offers multiple decorative possibilities.

Step-by-Step Microcement Application: Application Method

The microcement application process depends on the Satine microcement system chosen.

However, in general terms, the application of microcement on floors and walls is as follows:

1. Prepare the working surface, place the mesh, and apply the primer or adhesion promoter.
2. Apply two layers of preparation or base microcement over a mesh, which will serve as a support for the finishing microcement.
3. Next, apply two coats of finishing microcement. This is the one that combines the desired texture and color, giving the final look to the surface.

Microcement floors are trendy for being a durable and resistant decorative solution while offering a high level of customization. We show you how to apply microcement step-by-step on floors, both on interior and exterior surfaces.

How to Apply Microcement on Walls

The use of microcement on walls has become widespread due to its industrial appearance, quick installation, strong adhesion, and high resistance to cracking, among many other qualities. This is why it’s not surprising to see more microcement walls, not only in private homes but also in large commercial spaces like hotels or restaurants.

But how do you apply microcement on walls? In this section, we explain how to apply microcement on walls, step by step, for both interior and exterior surfaces.

How to Apply Microcement in Pools

Microcement pools are in vogue. The waterproof and slip-resistant properties of microcement are some of the keys to its success. Not to mention that virtually any design is possible in a microcement pool, which is extremely visually appealing.

At Satine, we are aware of the countless advantages of this decorative coating for building a pool. We have developed several microcement systems (single-component, bi-component, and ready-to-use) to achieve different textures and finishes. Below, we explain the application of microcement on floors.

Tips for Applying Microcement Correctly

The main problems related to microcement arise from a series of application errors. From not strictly following the steps or not respecting the drying times between layers to ignoring the ambient temperature or not using the proper tools.

That’s why we now offer a series of tips for applying microcement optimally.

1. Trust Only Professionals to Apply Microcement Applying microcement is not as simple as it may seem at first glance. It’s a complex task that must be carried out by qualified professionals with expertise in the application techniques for each microcement system.A microcement applicator must know how to evaluate the substrate and recognize if it needs repair before applying microcement. An experienced professional will know which microcement is most suitable for each renovation project, depending on the surface, substrate, and desired finish.
2. Plan the Work Before Applying Microcement Although microcement is a decorative coating that allows for quick transformations without the need for construction work, it is crucial to plan the work in detail before applying microcement.Depending on the project, other professionals may need to be involved. In this scenario, the application of microcement should always be left until the end, except for the last coat of paint, the installation of carpentry, and the placement of sanitary fittings.
3. Essential Tools for Applying Microcement Not just any tool will do for applying microcement, but rather very specific ones commonly used in the construction sector, which we will detail below:
   • Painter’s Tape or Paper with Tape: To protect areas where microcement won’t be applied from splashes.
   • Measuring Jug: The jug allows you to dose the amount of resin (for bi-component microcements) or water (for single-component) needed for the mix.
   • Low-Speed Mechanical Mixer with Double-Helix Paddle: To mix the microcement properly and achieve a homogeneous mixture.
   • Spatula: Used as a support for the trowel.
   • Trowel: Available in various types and sizes, made of flexible stainless steel or rubber, depending on the material being applied.
   • Industrial Vacuum Cleaner, Orbital Sander, Sanding Gloves, and Silicon Carbide Sandpapers: Once the microcement is dry, imperfections must be sanded, and the dust generated must be vacuumed to continue the process.
   • Rollers: Used to apply primers, pore sealers, and varnish sealers.

Inspect the Substrate Condition Before Applying Microcement

As mentioned earlier, if the substrate is not in proper condition, microcement cannot be applied reliably. There are four substrate factors that professionals must check before applying microcement.

1. Flatness of the Substrate Microcement is applied in layers no thicker than 1mm, and the total thickness will not exceed four millimeters, so substrate irregularities must be corrected before application. Microcement can be applied on floors, walls, and even ceilings, but the final result depends on the substrate and the applicator’s skill.
2. Substrate Stability The application base must be stable. Substrates with powdery mortars or loose tiles are not suitable. Depending on their condition, they must be removed or consolidated with quick-setting mortars.
3. Moisture-Free Substrate If there is moisture in the substrate, microcement cannot be applied. It is essential to determine the source of the moisture and eliminate it. We recommend using a moisture meter to ensure it never exceeds 5%.The substrate must have undergone a sufficient curing process. Temperature, ambient humidity, and ventilation in the workspace will affect the drying time of the mortars, either speeding it up or slowing it down.
4. Protect the Work Area Before Applying Microcement The work area and surfaces that won’t be coated must be adequately protected. Microcement adheres very strongly and is difficult to clean once it dries. Use standard protection materials used in painting jobs, such as painter’s tape, protective paper, and plastic sheeting.

Different Finishes Depending on Microcement Application

Thanks to the craftsmanship involved in applying microcement, various finishes can be achieved with the same material. These finishes depend on the base used, the application method, the trowel movement, the type of microcement, and the color.

1. The Type of Trowel Used to Apply Microcement The choice of trowel is crucial for the final appearance of the microcement coating.We use rubber trowels exclusively for Microfino. With this tool, the watermarks are slightly less pronounced than with a steel trowel. The rubber trowel exerts less pressure on the product, resulting in a smoother finish.In contrast, a flexible steel trowel is recommended if a burnt effect or black marks are desired.
2. The Application of the Base Layer of Microcement We always say that each layer should be applied as if it were the last, because, due to the material’s thickness, the patterns or imperfections of the previous layers will show in the subsequent ones. This characteristic of microcement can be used to our advantage to create textures.
3. The Color and Type of Microcement Applied Darker colors will show watermarks more, while in white and off-white colors, the watermarks will be almost imperceptible, especially if applied with a rubber trowel.