Microcement DIY – step by step
Microcement gives a seamless concrete look on floors, walls and countertops – and can go straight over the existing substrate. It's a patient job of many thin coats, but very much a DIY project. Here's the process from substrate to sealer.
A microcement system is several coats
Microcement is applied as thin coats over a solid substrate. A typical system is 2 base coats that build strength, and 2 finish coats that create the fine surface – plus primer underneath and sealer on top. Total consumption is typically 3–4.5 kg/m², but it varies a lot between brands.
Calculate consumption correctly
Consumption depends on the number of coats and the specific product's consumption per m². Always look it up on the datasheet and use it in the calculation – then the amount matches your exact product. Use the microcement calculator to get kg of microcement, primer and sealer from your area and number of coats.
The substrate is critical
Microcement can go over tiles, concrete, filled drywall and stable timber floors – but only if the substrate is solid, clean and free of movement. Cracks and movement in the substrate telegraph through the surface. In bathrooms and wet rooms an approved waterproofing system must sit under the microcement; microcement is not a waterproofing membrane on its own.
Avoid the common mistakes
Most mistakes come down to prep and patience: a substrate that moves, coats that are too thick, too little drying time, or a failed primer/sealer. Follow the manufacturer's datasheet for consumption, coat thickness and drying times, and keep a wet edge so there are no visible overlaps. A material list helps you remember primer, microcement, sanding kit and sealer.
Keep the project organised
With MyPlanDIY you can gather your material list, budget and tasks in one project. Add microcement, primer and sealer from the microcement calculator, update prices as you get quotes, and generate a printable shopping list.
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Open calculator →Ready for your microcement project?
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