How to apply microcement to a floor?

Microcement is a coating based on liquid polymer and cement for application to floors, walls, countertops, etc. The entire thickness of the floor is only about 2 - 3 mm. Nevertheless, it has a very high abrasion resistance.

Thanks to its properties, microcement (HydroFest) is water resistant and can be used in wet rooms such as bathrooms, saunas and kitchens.

Microcement is one of the simpler systems with which we can achieve the effect of concrete. Heavy equipment is not needed to make it. During the implementation of microcement floors, most contractors use oscillating grinders, eccentric grinders and polishers (called scrubbers) for floors. An industrial vacuum cleaner and basic tools such as steel floats, trowels, etc. will also be necessary.

The more experience the contractor has, the more skilled he will be in shaping the surface of the microcement.

This step should never be forgotten. Many of the problems that can arise during subsequent work and use of the floor have their cause in the inadequate preparation of the substrate.

The substrate for microcement must be even and load-bearing. Without cracks, remains of gypsum, paint or other residues from previous work. Note that all slopes (for example, to the linear drain in the bathroom) and level differences must be prepared before applying microcement. We would like to remind you that the thickness of the microcement floor is only 2-3 mm, and it is practically impossible to move out and correct the slopes of the previous layers.

The substrate should be primed with FESTGrunt. The preparation is used to seal and improve the adhesion of subsequent layers to the substrate. By properly priming, we can be sure that the liquid polymer from the microcement will not be “sucked” into the substrate, and the entire system will have proper adhesion.

Priming should be done with a regular roller once or twice - depending on the absorbency of the substrate. The interval after successive layers is about 2-3 hours - until the preparation soaks into the substrate.

The application of microcement is a precise process that you can do yourself or use specialized companies that perform this type of service on a daily basis.

If you are looking for a team with a high standard of professionalism, we encourage you to get in touch with us. We have a base of experienced companies that specialize in working with our products.

The key to realizing durable and satisfactory microcement surfaces is proper surface preparation and application of the material according to the step-by-step technical sheet.

STEP 1. Before applying the target material, it is important to make sure that the substrate is stable, load-bearing, level, free of irregularities and dirt, and with minimal moisture content (less than 3%).

STEP 2. Next, the prepared substrate should be properly primed, which will significantly affect the adhesion of the microcement and reveal any damage. If there are any cavities or cracks in the substrate, they should be repaired before applying the microcement.

When applying to floors, especially those with underfloor heating, it is recommended to reinforce the substrate with a primer and fiberglass mesh (buy Surface reinforcement set) . This will protect the floor from possible cracks from the substrate in the future. Such a solution is also recommended for insecure and cracked substrates.

Before starting the actual application, it is important to prepare all products according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

STEP 3. The application of microcement involves applying the material in thin layers not exceeding 1 mm in thickness. Each layer should be spread evenly, trying to work with the “wet-on-wet” method, that is, applying the next layer on top of the not yet fully dried previous layer, which ensures better bonding of the layers. After applying each layer, it is recommended to let the floor dry for about 2 to 4 hours (depending on temperature and humidity) and then sand it before applying the next layer. After applying at least two coats, the microcement is left to cure on its own, which usually takes about 24 hours. See our ready-made kits to make microcement>>

STEP 4. The final step in the process is to apply a sealer that will protect the entire microcement surface, providing protection from moisture, dirt and possible discoloration.

See our video tutorial “Microcement floor STEP BY STEP. How to apply Festfloor Life microcement?”. Watch the video on YouTube and include subtitles in your language.