Floor? Microcement! The perfect combination of style and durability
Floor made of microcement Festfloor Life, colour FL01 Warm Beige, PU FEST 2K sealer in satin | Contractor: PracowniaBetonu | Photo: W_SRODKU Fotografia
Have you ever wondered how to give your floors a unique character while ensuring that they are durable and easy to maintain? In our article, we will take a closer look at the advantages of microcement as a flooring material and take you through the application process, step by step. We will also discover the latest interior design trends using microcement for floors, compare it with other popular flooring materials and offer practical tips for care and maintenance. In addition, we will answer the most frequently asked questions and give you an indication of the costs involved in making a microcement floor.
- Microcement for flooring – advantages of using microcement on floors
- Step by step: How to make a microcement floor
- Inspirations and trends in the design of microcement floors
- Comparison of microcement with other flooring materials
- Cleaning and maintenance of microcement flooring
- Micro concrete floor – a summary
Microcement on the floor is a modern solution that is gaining popularity among interior designers and homeowners. Its exceptional properties, such as abrasion and moisture resistance and ease of cleaning, make it the ideal choice for those who value both the aesthetics and functionality of their home or commercial space. Get ready for an inspiring journey through the world of elegant and durable floors that can completely transform the look of any interior.
Microcement for flooring – advantages of using microcement on floors
Microcement as a finishing material is gaining in popularity due to its versatility and aesthetics. Its use on floors is not only a matter of modern design, but also practicality. The high abrasion resistance makes microcement floors ideal for heavily used spaces such as living rooms, kitchens and commercial spaces. In addition, the ease of cleaning is an asset that every user will appreciate.
The economic aspect is also not negligible. With proper maintenance, microcement floors can be durable and long-lasting, which contributes to savings in the long term. They do not require frequent renovations, as is the case with other materials. In addition, microcement is applied directly to the existing substrate, eliminating the need for costly dismantling of old surfaces.
Floor made of microcement Festfloor Life, colour FL03 July Beige | Contractor: @project_microcement | Photo: @paralax.foto
In terms of health and safety, microcement is not indifferent. Its anti-allergenic properties and lack of harmful volatile substances make it an environmentally and user-friendly material. FESTFLOOR GO! microcement is hygienically certified by the PZH (Polish National Institute of Hygiene), which confirms its safety for health. In addition, the ability to create a jointless surface on a microcement floor makes it easier to maintain hygiene, which is invaluable in areas where cleanliness is key, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Step by step: How to make a microcement floor
Application of microcement with a trowel to a previously prepared substrate.
The implementation of microcement floors requires careful preparation and an understanding of the application process. Before starting, make sure that the substrate is clean, dry and stable. Removing any contaminants, such as oils or waxes, is key to ensuring microcement adhesion. This should be followed by the application of the FESTGrunt undercoat for microcement that will increase the adhesion to the substrate.
The second step is to apply a base layer for the microcement, which is often reinforced with a fibreglass mesh. This layer forms the foundation for subsequent applications, so its even distribution is extremely important. The surface preparation requirements for microcement flooring are a drawback for some, but a properly prepared substrate will prevent cracks in the floor.
Once the base layer has been applied and dried, we proceed with the application of the microcement layers. Here, the precision and experience of the applicator play a key role in achieving a smooth and aesthetically pleasing surface.
Finally, the floor of microcement needs to be protected with a sealer. This step is essential to ensure abrasion resistance and to facilitate subsequent maintenance. The choice of the right protective product should be adapted to the intensity of use of the floor and the expected aesthetics of the final finish. Read also: Which sealer for microcement should you choose?
Learn how to make a microcement floor step-by-step from our videos:
Inspirations and trends in the design of microcement floors
The use of microcement in modern interiors is a trend that is gaining popularity due to its versatility and aesthetics. It is a solution that goes well with a variety of design styles – from industrial spaces to minimalist and Scandinavian interiors. Thanks to the rich colour palette and the possibility of creating unique textures, microcement becomes an element that allows the floor to be individually adapted to the character of the room.
The durability and easy maintenance of microcement floors are further advantages in favour of choosing microcement as a flooring material. Compared to traditional solutions such as parquet or ceramic tiles, microcement is distinguished by its high resistance to abrasion and damage.
The ecological aspect is a not insignificant issue in this era of increasing environmental awareness. As an environmentally friendly material, microcement can be used in sustainability-oriented projects. Its application does not require the dismantling of existing subfloors, which minimises construction waste and contributes to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions, another advantage that makes micro concrete for flooring a good solution.
White microcement floor made from Festloor Life microcement in the dining room. Colour: FL12 White, PU FEST 2K satin sealer. | Contractor: Best Home Deco | Photo: Magda Ł.
Microcement floor made from Festloor Life microcement in the dining room. Colour: FL12 White, PU FEST 2K satin sealer. | Contractor: Best Home Deco | Photo: Magda Ł.
Comparison of microcement with other flooring materials
Choosing the right flooring material is a key decision that affects not only the aesthetics, but also the functionality and durability of the space. Microcement stands out from other flooring materials due to its unique properties. It offers:
- High abrasion resistance – which is important in high traffic areas.
- Ease of maintenance – the smooth surface does not accumulate dirt and is easy to clean.
- Ability to be applied to existing substrates – allowing for quick and less invasive renovation.
Compared to traditional solutions such as ceramic tiles or wooden parquet floors, microcement offers much more flexibility in terms of personalisation. The available palette of colours and textures allows the creation of almost any floor look, from concrete imitation to a natural stone effect. What’s more, the lack of joints makes the surface optically uniform, which is particularly appreciated in modern interior designs. On the other hand, materials such as laminate or vinyl, although they may be more affordable, cannot match microcement in terms of durability and unique character.
Cleaning and maintenance of microcement flooring
To ensure that the microcement floor keeps its aesthetic appearance and durability for many years, proper cleaning and maintenance methods are essential. Regular and correct maintenance measures avoid many problems such as stains or scratches.
Daily dust removal with a soft brush or mop is recommended, as well as cyclical cleaning with special products for microcement that do not contain aggressive chemicals, such as FestCleaner. It is important to avoid agents containing waxes or silicones, which can form undesirable layers on the surface.
For more difficult stains, use dedicated formulations, such as Power-FEST or FESTCalc. If you opt for other cleaning products, remember to always test the effect of a new cleaner on a barely visible part of the floor before applying it to a larger area.
Specialist tip sheets are also available, providing step-by-step explanations on how to care for microcement so that it will last for many years. Read also: How to clean microcement floor?
Micro concrete floor – a summary
Floors of microcement are not only a modern solution, but also a practical and durable finish that is gaining popularity among interior designers and property owners. This innovative material combines aesthetics with functionality, offering high abrasion resistance, ease of cleaning and the possibility of personalisation thanks to a rich colour palette. In addition, microcement is environmentally friendly, making it an attractive choice for those looking for ecological and sustainable solutions. The microcement application process requires precision and experience, but the end results, such as a smooth and uniform surface, are well worth the investment of time and resources. In a comparative context, microcement stands out from traditional flooring materials due to its unique properties and customisation possibilities, making it an ideal choice for modern and functional interiors. For reviews of microcement floors, take a look here.
Frequently asked questions about microcement floors
Can microcement be used on underfloor heating?
Yes, microcement can be used on underfloor heating. It is a material with good thermal conductivity, which makes it ideal for use with underfloor heating systems. However, it is important that the heating system is properly installed and fully functional before applying microcement.
How long does it take for microcement to dry?
The drying process of microcement depends on ambient conditions such as temperature and humidity, but typically a layer of microcement will take up to 12 hours to dry. It can take up to 28 days to fully cure and reach final strength.
Is the microcement floor scratch resistant?
A microcement floor is relatively scratch resistant, but like any surface, it can be damaged by heavy use or contact with sharp objects. FESTFLOOR has several solutions in its range to protect the microcement surface. It is worth making the right choice when implementing microcement.
Read more: Which sealer to choose for microcement?
Is microcement available in different colours?
Yes, microcement is available in a wide range of colours. Being able to choose different pigments allows you to match the colour of microcement floor to your individual preferences and interior design. Before choosing a specific microcement floor colour, it is a good idea to order our Festflooor Go! or Festfloor Life sample book. You can also order a test kit, which will allow you to create a larger sample in the colour of your choice and test it in the actual conditions of the room, as the final result may vary depending on the lighting and other interior design elements.
See:
MICROCEMENT COLOURS FOR FLOOR AND WALLS
Festfloor Life microcement colours – the new greys
What are the care recommendations for microcement floors?
Floors of microcement floor require regular cleaning with a soft cloth or mop and the use of neutral cleaners. Avoid agents containing strong acids or alkalis, which can damage the surface. It is also advisable to periodically apply wax or specialised protective preparations to help maintain the aesthetic appearance of the floor.
What is the cost of microcement floor per m2?
The microcement floor cost is determined by the microcement system chosen and the microcement application service, which depends on the surface, the level of difficulty of the workmanship, the region of the country and the experience of the contractor.
See the products mentioned in the article:
♦ Kit FESTFLOOR GO! Basic – 10 m² – a basic kit of ready-to-use Festfloor Go! microcement, needed to make a 10m2 floor.
♦ Kit FESTFLOOR LIFE Basic – 10 m² – basic set of Festfloor Life microcement, needed for a 10m2 floor area
♦ Surface reinforcement sets – to properly prepare and strengthen the substrate before the microcement application
♦ PU FEST 2K – sealer to protect microcement surface
♦ Maintenance and care products for microcement floor
♦ Color book Festfloor Go!
♦ Color book Festfloor Life
♦ Festfloor TEST KIT for making your own microcement sample
Photo gallery of microcement floors: