Welcome to our comprehensive guide on applying microcement! Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, this article will provide you with all the technical tips, tools, and techniques you need to achieve stunning results with microcement. From understanding the properties of Festfloor Life microcement to mastering the application process on different surfaces, we've got you covered. So let's dive in and discover the secrets to creating beautiful and durable microcement surfaces.

Technical Tips for Applying Festfloor Life Microcement

When it comes to applying Festfloor Life microcement, there are a few technical tips to keep in mind. This unique coating is based on a liquid polymer and cement, making it suitable for application on floors, walls, countertops, and more. Despite its thin layer of only about 2 mm, Festfloor Life microcement is highly resistant to wear and tear. Its exceptional durability makes it a great choice for wet areas such as saunas or bathrooms, as it is also resistant to water.

Applying Festfloor Life microcement doesn't require heavy equipment or machinery. Most professionals use oscillating sanders, eccentric sanders, and polishers (known as scrubbers) for the application process. Additionally, an industrial vacuum cleaner and basic tools like steel trowels and spatulas are necessary. The level of skill in shaping the microcement surface increases with the experience of the applicator. It's important to note that proper surface preparation is crucial for successful application. Any imperfections or residues from previous works should be removed to ensure a smooth and even base. The use of a primer helps seal the surface and improve adhesion between layers. After priming, it's recommended to wait for the primer to fully penetrate the substrate before proceeding with subsequent layers.

Tools and Equipment Needed for Applying Microcement

When it comes to applying microcement, there are several tools and equipment that are essential for a successful installation. These tools help ensure a smooth and even application, allowing you to achieve the desired effect. Here are some of the key tools and equipment needed:

Oscillating grinders:
These grinders are commonly used by professionals for smoothing and leveling the surface before applying microcement. They help remove any imperfections or residues from previous works, ensuring a clean and even base.
Eccentric polishers:
Similar to oscillating grinders, eccentric polishers are used to further refine the surface and achieve a smooth finish. They are particularly useful for reaching corners and edges that may be difficult to access with other tools.
Industrial vacuum cleaners:
These powerful vacuum cleaners are essential for removing dust and debris from the surface before applying microcement. They help create a clean environment, ensuring proper adhesion between layers.

In addition to these specialized tools, basic tools like steel trowels and plastering spatulas are also necessary for applying microcement. These tools are used for spreading and shaping the microcement mixture, allowing you to achieve the desired texture and finish. It's important to note that while having the right tools is essential, experience plays a crucial role in shaping the microcement surface. The more experienced an applicator is, the better their skills in creating a flawless and visually appealing result.

Preparing the Substrate for Microcement Application

Proper preparation of the substrate is crucial for a successful microcement application. Neglecting this step can lead to various issues during the installation process and even affect the long-term durability of the microcement surface. It's essential to ensure that the substrate is even, stable, and free from any cracks or residues from previous works.

Before applying microcement, it's important to address any existing imperfections in the substrate. This includes filling in cracks, removing loose particles, and repairing any damaged areas. Any traces of paint, plaster, or other residues should also be thoroughly removed. It's worth noting that microcement is only about 2 mm thick, so it cannot compensate for significant variations or unevenness in the substrate.

In addition to preparing a smooth and clean surface, priming is necessary to enhance the adhesion of the microcement layers. A primer helps seal the substrate and creates a strong bond between the microcement and the base material. It's recommended to use a suitable primer that is compatible with both the substrate and the microcement system being used. Applying the primer with a roller ensures an even distribution across the entire surface.

Applying Microcement on Floors: Tips and Techniques

When it comes to applying microcement on floors, there are specific tips and techniques that can help ensure a successful installation. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the desired results:

  1. Prepare the workspace: Before starting the application process, it's important to ensure that the workspace is well-lit. This will allow you to see all areas and corners of the room, ensuring an even distribution of the microcement mixture. Additionally, maintaining a suitable temperature range of 15°C-25°C is crucial for optimal bonding and drying of the microcement.
  2. Mix the microcement: Depending on whether you are using a two-component or one-component microcement system, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to mix the microcement properly. For two-component systems, weigh and mix both components along with any desired pigments according to the specified proportions. For one-component systems, simply open the packaging and mix the content thoroughly.
  3. Apply the microcement: Start by preparing enough microcement mixture to cover the entire surface area. Using steel trowels and other metal tools, spread the mixture evenly with a thickness not exceeding 1 mm. The application should be done with quick and energetic movements in different directions, depending on the desired effect. Begin from the farthest point in the room and work your way towards the exit, applying subsequent batches "wet-on-wet" within approximately 4 hours.

After allowing sufficient time for drying (at least 12 hours), use a single-disc sander with sandpaper ranging from 60-120 grit to sand down the surface. Pay attention to hard-to-reach areas, such as corners and along the walls, where eccentric or oscillating sanders can be used. Once the surface has been sanded, thoroughly vacuum the area to remove any dust or debris. Repeat the application process for subsequent layers, following the same steps as the initial layer. After the final layer has dried, sand the entire surface again with sandpaper of at least 80 grit or higher to achieve a smooth finish.

Applying Microcement on Walls: Tips and Techniques

When it comes to applying microcement on walls, there are some specific tips and techniques to keep in mind. While the overall process is similar to applying microcement on floors, there are a few differences and additional considerations when working with vertical surfaces.

Firstly, it's important to ensure that the wall surface is clean, smooth, and free from any imperfections or residues. Any cracks or unevenness should be addressed before applying the microcement. It's also crucial to use a suitable primer that is specifically designed for wall applications. The primer helps improve adhesion and ensures a strong bond between the microcement and the wall surface.

When applying microcement on walls, it's recommended to work in smaller sections at a time. This allows for better control over the application process and helps prevent the mixture from drying too quickly. Use steel trowels or plastering spatulas to spread the microcement evenly on the wall surface, following the same quick and energetic movements as with floor applications.

Additionally, pay attention to corners and edges where it may be challenging to achieve a smooth finish. Handheld eccentric or oscillating sanders can be useful for these areas. It's important to note that vertical surfaces may require more precision and attention to detail compared to horizontal surfaces.

Overall, applying microcement on walls requires careful preparation, attention to detail, and patience. Following these tips and techniques will help you achieve a beautiful and durable microcement finish on your walls.

Finishing and Sealing Microcement Surfaces

Once the microcement surface has fully cured, it is important to give it a final touch to achieve the desired smoothness and appearance. This can be done by sanding or polishing the surface using appropriate tools and techniques. Sanding helps remove any imperfections, roughness, or unevenness that may have occurred during the application process. By carefully sanding the microcement surface, you can achieve a smooth and flawless finish.

After sanding, it is crucial to thoroughly clean the surface to remove any dust or debris. This step ensures that the subsequent layers or sealants adhere properly to the microcement surface. A clean surface also helps achieve better results in terms of aesthetics and durability. Once the surface is clean and dry, you can proceed with applying additional layers of microcement or sealants.

To protect and maintain the microcement surface, it is recommended to use specialised microcement sealers. These sealers provide an extra layer of protection against stains, water damage, and daily wear and tear. They also make cleaning and maintenance easier by creating a barrier that prevents dirt and liquids from penetrating the microcement surface. Choosing the right sealer for your specific microcement system is essential to ensure long-lasting results.