The microcement checklist. 5 things you need to do before starting microcement application

We all know how stressful a renovation project can be. Renovations are source of stress, thanks to the disruption to your normal routine and  deadlines. Usually, you do not have much time and you want to carry out the work quickly and efficiently – how to prepare yourself for the microcement application project? How to make it out (relatively) unscathed and stay sane? The microcement checklist we’ve prepared for you will help you get you moving through tasks quickly and easily.

1. Evaluate the quality of the substrate for microcement

Assessing the quality of the substrate on which we want to apply microcement is crucial for the success of the project. It is worth taking it seriously, because microcement is only a decorative layer and any defects in the substrate that are not properly protected can spread to the microcement. In addition, the floor with underfloor heating should be prepared in a specific way so should old tiles. The substrate for microcement must be load-bearing, even and without cracks. If this is not the case, then you should do the preparatory work – in the video below Borys shows how to do a simple test of the quality of the substrate:

… and here he shows how to prepare a substrate for microcement:

2. Choose the right products

When you decide on microcement, you need to know if you want to use the ready-to-use Festfloor Go microcement, or if you prefer a slightly cheaper, but more demanding traditional two-component microcement. For the latter, it is important whether you will use the product for walls (Festwall Life) or floors (Festfloor Life).

Finally, choose a product to protect the surface. Most often in apartments and houses (indoors), the PU Fest 2K microcement varnish is enough. This product is part of the standard kit, however, if your project has higher requirements, e.g. microcement will be applied in a place exposed to increased pedestrian traffic or constant contact with water, as well as when you plan to use microcement outdoors, additional preparations may be needed. Read what microcement varnish to choose.

3. Prepare color samples

The next step will be to prepare samples of color and the expected effect. Regardless of whether you will do the work yourself or it will be done by professional contractors, samples are crucial. For Festfloor Go, you have the entire RAL and NCS palette at your disposal. Remember, however, that due to the specific way of presenting shades (displayed on the monitor screen, additionally with different resolutions), the actual color chosen from the color chart may differ from the color of the microcement on the sample. In addition, it also depends on lighting in a particular room. You need to decide weather you want to get a uniform smooth effect or prefer when there is “a lot going on” on the surface. It’s best to make a large sample, e.g. 1mx1m, and see how it looks in the target room.

Read also: How to design stylish concrete interiors on your own [DIY], Decorative concrete in the house: 5 amazing concrete houses

4. Order the necessary products… earlier!

Our products from the standard color palette are available immediately. However, delaying the order at the last minute is not a good idea. Make sure that work is not stopped due to undelivered products and order them 2 weeks in advance. Please note that shipping to some countries may take longer (e.g. Spain, Portugal, Norway, Iceland).

One last thing to remember about – when you place your order, allow an additional 10% of reserve (especially if you’re a beginner!). It’s better to order extra materials than ordering the exact quantity because of the situations that may lead you to run short. Ordering extra prevents delays. If you don’t order enough  in the first place, you may find yourself waiting around for more to come in.

5. Find a trusted team or familiarize yourself with technical sheets

If you are going to do the work yourself and it will be your first time with microcement, first of all read the technical sheets of the products. They contain the necessary information about the conditions and method of application of the product, its  storage conditions, tools, daily care, etc. In addition, watch the video tutorials on our YouTube channel and read the following articles:

• Microcement – frequently asked questions
• The most common mistakes when applying microcement
• Microcement wall –  DIY

You can also order a microcement test kit. You will then be able to make samples and become familiar with the technique of work and product consistency. If you have time, you can sign up for microcement training (contact us to request a private microcement training in English).

If you prefer to outsource to professionals, check out our guide on how to choose a good microcement contractor

And that’s it! If you have checked all the points from our microcement checklist,  you’re ready to go!