Covering a countertop with microcement requires careful preparation of the surface, precise application of microcement layers and proper waterproofing. To make a microcement countertop, our dedicated countertop kit will work best. Below you will learn how to go through the whole process step by step to get the best result.

1. Preparation of countertop construction

We would like to remind you that microcement is only a decorative layer of 2-3 mm, so the basis for the countertop is the material that will be covered with microcement. For this, you can use a wooden countertop, chipboard, OSB or MDF. However, it must be free of defects, because microcement is not used to fill defects. Therefore, the construction of the countertop should be carefully prepared, and any cavities or irregularities should be removed beforehand and leveled with suitable materials, such as joint compound. A solid and flat substrate will ensure the durability of the microcement finish, while eliminating the risk of later damage or cracks on the surface of the countertop. If you are doing a makeover of an old piece of furniture, all you need to do is lightly sand the countertop and remove dust. If you're making a table with a concrete top from scratch, cut the top to the right dimensions.

2. Priming

Priming the surface of the countertop before applying the microcement is a key step that has a significant impact on the durability of the microcement. Before priming, make sure the surface is dry, clean and free of any dirt or residue from previous work. Priming is designed to strengthen the structure of the substrate and increase the adhesion of the microcement, which translates into the durability and stability of the finished countertop. Use our product, FESTGrunt, and a microfibre roller or brush to prime the surface.

3. Reinforcing the substrate when joining tops

If your countertop is uniform and has no joints, you can ignore this step.
If your worktop has joints, it is important to reinforce such a substrate before applying the microcement to prevent possible cracks. Use substrate reinforcement products for this purpose: FestKontakt bonding bridge + glass fibre mesh. The use of the mesh will strengthen the substrate, providing additional strength and stability to the material. This gives the microcement a solid base, reducing the risk of cracks forming at the joints on the worktop. Read the product data sheets to find out how to apply it.

4. Application of microcement layers I and II

The next step is the application of the microcement. Use HydroFest single-component, water-resistant microcement for the microcement countertop. Spread the mixture with a trowel to a thickness of no more than 1 mm. Apply the microcement with quick, vigorous movements in different directions, depending on the desired effect, always using the wet-on-wet method. Take care to finish the corners of the worktop with precision.
After 4 hours, when the material has completely set and is dry, sand the worktop using an eccentric or orbital sander with 60-80 grit sandpaper. After sanding the first layer of microcement, vacuum the entire surface thoroughly. Then apply the second coat in the same way as the first. After it has dried (after 4 hours), repeat the sanding.

5. Primer under sealer

In addition, in areas exposed to water and dirt, we recommend the application of FEST Primer, a primer for sealer. It is a ready-to-use, one-component, water-based acrylic primer which improves the adhesion of the sealer to the substrate and increases resistance to water and dirt. FEST Primer is a neutral and anti-allergenic product. The surface must be perfectly cured, dry, clean and free of dust, waxes and oils, etc. The product should be applied with a high-quality microfibre roller with 8 mm bristles. Before using the roller, we recommend wrapping it with painter's tape to pull off loose bristles so that they do not remain on the surface to be impregnated. The drying time for FEST Primer is between 12 and 24 hours.

6. Sealering | microcement impregnation

Once the primer has dried, coat the worktop with two coats of PU FEST TURBO sealer with the addition of NANO SILVER PLUS SB, an agent with silver ions. After the addition of the silver ion agent, the varnished coating will have antibacterial properties and create a hygienic protective coating on the worktop. Also use a good quality microfibre roller to apply the sealer, which will not leave lint on the sealer, ruining the end result. Before using the roller, we recommend wrapping it with painter's tape to remove any loose parts. Sealering requires a protective paint suit with hood and respiratory protection. PU FEST TURBO is a product for professional use, please read the technical data sheet before use.

 

Buy a microcement set for countertops