Microcement stairs Q&A with Tomek Grabarczyk [ video ]

In today’s Q&A session, Tomek Grabarczyk answers the most frequently asked questions about microcement stairs. (English subtitles available)

1. I have uneven and damaged stairs, with numerous cavities, can microcement be placed on such stairs?

Yes, it is most definitely possible. For this purpose, we use our special method, where we glue a cement board to the riser, and pour a self-level on the step, thanks to which the steps are even and smooth.

2. How are the stairs prepared for microcement application?

In order to prepare the stairs for the application of microcement, we use our proven method. It consists in gluing the cement board to the riser and pouring a self-leveling screed from the top, thanks to which we have the vertical riser, the level of the step, and we can also correct the depth of the step.

3. How long does it take to make stairs from microcement?

It takes 6 to 8 working days for us. In the first stage, we align the stairs. We grind them, take measurements, cut cement boards, then glue and pour the self-leveling screed. Then we grind the cement laitance and prime in order to prepare for the application of microcement. The next step is the application of microcement, which lasts from 3 to 4 days.

4. I would like to arrange a measurement with a barrier company, when can it be done?

It is best to order a company to measure the railing after the first stage of work, when the stairs are already aligned. After that, this dimension will practically not change.

5. What should be the sequence of works?

We divide our work into two stages. Stage 1 is the preparation of the substrate. And here we recommend inviting us to the construction site when the staircase is already polished and primed. Stage 2 is planned at the very end of the finishing works. We recommend doing painting only after our work is done.

6. What are the available colors of microcement?

Colors from the Festfloor Life and Festfloor Go! and on special request we can prepare a color from the RAL and NCS palette.

7. Will the steps not crumble?

We glue a hard cement board to the risers. And on the step we pour a self-leveling screed, thanks to which the edge with the outer corner is extremely hard. In addition, three layers of microcement are ground and rounded, thanks to which the risk of chipping is practically non-existent.

8. How to care for microcement stairs?

Microcement stairs can be used like any other stairs. If you have pets, children at home, you like to walk up the stairs in shoes, you don’t have to worry – these stairs will withstand it.

9. I have stairs covered with tiles, can they be covered with microcement without the need to chisel?

Yes, it is absolutely possible. Thanks to this, you can quickly renovate the stairs without forging and unnecessary mess. Thanks to this, you will also save a lot of time, because the whole operation will be done in half the time.

10. Can you use stairs during your work?

Categorically not. Until the varnish is applied, the stairs are very easy to get dirty or destroyed. If the stairs are damaged, can they be repaired? And will such a repair be visible?

Yes. Such a repair is possible. It’s best to fix the whole item. If we worked with Festfloor Go material, there is no fear that the color will be different. If, on the other hand, we worked with a two-component material, there is a minimal chance that the shade will differ.

12. How long after varnishing can the stairs be used.

The stairs can be used on the second day. We recommend light foot traffic in socks. The varnish is fully cured after 7 days. Then you can use the stairs freely.

13. We live in a house with unfinished stairs. Can this service be performed at home?

Yes. It is absolutely possible. However, you have to reckon with some difficulties when it comes to functioning at home. It would be optimal if the client moved out for the duration of such a service, so that he would not be disturbed by the noise and smells of construction chemicals.

14. Is it possible to make a microcement plinth?

We make a microcement plinth by drawing vertical and horizontal lines. And then sticking the painter’s tape. They outline the outline of this pedestal for us. Then we fill in any gaps that occur here. We grind them, prime them, and finally apply 2 or 3 layers of microcement.

15. Can I use angle bars?

We do not recommend. This is an old method that is now obsolete. Currently, both we and most contractors in Poland use the method of gluing cement boards and pouring self-leveling screed. Thanks to this, we have a vertical and a level step.

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