What is microcement?
Microcement, also known as microtopping or microfinish, is a cutting-edge finishing style gaining popularity in interior design and architectural projects. It is a type of decorative cementitious (cement-like) coating applied to surfaces to achieve a seamless, smooth, and elegant finish. Microcement is renowned for its versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal. These are some of the reasons why it’s gaining popularity as a finish for a wide range of applications: including floors, walls, rooves, countertops and, even, furniture.
‘Microcement isn’t a paint, it’s a process’
This innovative finishing process is often confused with a paint. In some ways, this mislabelling is understandable and it can be helpful in understanding why microcement is so popular. Once applied, microcement, like paint, makes for a very thin layer of material on top of what was there before. Applied microcement only adds two millimetres of thickness to the surface it was applied to.
Microcement isn’t a paint, however. It is, as Microcement Kenya’s director and owner likes to say, a process. A mixture of cement, polymers, additives and fine additives (that often add colour or texture to the mix) are layered over and on top of each other to create a strong and elegant finish.
Microcement offers several advantages over conventional flooring and wall finishing materials. Firstly, its seamless finish creates a visually appealing and contemporary look, adding a touch of sophistication to any space. Additionally, microcement is highly durable and resistant to abrasion, making it suitable for high-traffic areas such as residential homes, commercial spaces, and public buildings.
Moreover, microcement is available in a wide range of colours, textures, and finishes, allowing for endless design possibilities. Whether seeking a minimalist aesthetic with neutral tones or a bold statement with vibrant hues and textured surfaces, microcement can be customized to suit individual preferences and design concepts.
Another notable characteristic of microcement is its versatility in application. It can be applied to various substrates, including concrete, wood, tiles. The fact that it can be layered on top of existing surfaces, without the need for extensive demolition or preparation, is another, somewhat understated reason why microcement is so popular in building and renovation. In fact, for renovation projects, microcement is especially popular. It can be applied to give a modern, sleek revamp of what was there before.
Microcement is also considered a sustainable and eco-friendly option compared to traditional flooring materials. It minimizes waste and reduces the need for resource-intensive production processes. Its long-lasting durability also contributes to environmental conservation by reducing the frequency of replacements and renovations.
In terms of maintenance, microcement is relatively easy to care for, requiring simple cleaning and occasional resealing to maintain its appearance and protective properties. With proper maintenance, microcement surfaces can retain their beauty and functionality for many years, providing excellent value for investment.
If you’re considering building microcement into a building or revamp project that you’re working on, you might be interested in reading this article on the different types and uses of microcement.
