What is microcement?

Microcement, also known as micro-concrete or beton cire, is an innovative solution in the interior finishing field. This unique material allows the creation of smooth and uniform surfaces, combining the strength of concrete with the flexibility of traditional finishing materials. Invented and developed in southern Europe, microcement consists of a mixture of cement, resins and special additives. This makes it extremely resistant to damage and scratching.

The material is characterized by high adhesion, which allows it to be applied to a variety of surfaces – from floors through walls to furniture. Microcement works well in both modern, minimalist interiors and those with a more classic character, offering a rich palette of colors and finishes. Thanks to its unique properties, microcement is an excellent alternative to traditional materials such as ceramic tiles, wood and stone. Its flexibility and ability to form thin layers open up new creative possibilities for interior designers and architects.

Microcement properties

Microcement, thanks to its unique characteristics, plays a key role in a wide range of applications. It is a material with high resistance to abrasion, which is reflected in its durability, especially in areas with heavy traffic. This durability is a result of its special properties – it is a material that, despite its strength, retains remarkable flexibility. This characteristic attribute allows it to adapt to various deformations of the substrate without cracking or spalling.

One of the most important advantages of microcement is the ease of its application. Its unique structure allows individual application, which is not only time-saving, but also economical. Moreover, the use of microcement is not limited to a single color tone. It is available in a wide range of colors, allowing it to match a variety of interior styles and preferences.

The microcement system is also waterproof, making it an ideal choice for use in bathrooms and kitchens. Ease of cleaning is another advantage of microcement – its smooth, jointless surface ensures a simple cleaning process.

The hypoallergenic nature of microcement is also an important feature. It is a safe material that does not emit harmful chemicals and does not have micropores or cracks, which means that it does not provide a place for allergens or bacteria to accumulate. With all these properties, microcement is not only a practical, but also a healthy choice for your home.

WIDE COLOR PALETTE
Our microcement is available in a wide
color palette.

WATERPROOF
The Festfloor system can be used in wet areas
(bathrooms, saunas, kitchens).

HIGH ABRASION RESISTANCE
It is suitable for areas with high
pedestrian traffic.

EASY TO APPLY
Even for people without much
experience.

HIGH ADHESION TO ANY TYPE OF SUBSTRATE
Perfect for use on floors,
walls or stairs.

EASY TO CLEAN
Easy cleaning with water and pH-neutral
liquids.

What is microcement used for?

Microcement is the true embodiment of versatility in interior finishes. Its remarkable properties make it an excellent choice for a variety of surfaces, both indoors and outdoors, offering elegant and durable solutions. This material will work perfectly as a finish for floors, walls, stairs and even ceilings or furniture. Microcement surfaces, thanks to their durability, exceptional aesthetics and flexibility, offer a wide range of design possibilities, responding to a variety of needs and preferences.

Where do microcement finishes perform well?

Microcement, thanks to its versatility and extreme durability, is an excellent choice for a variety of rooms and arrangements. This unique material can be successfully used in high-traffic areas such as hallways and living rooms, where its durability and ease of maintenance are invaluable.

Its water resistance makes microcement also applicable in wet rooms, such as kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture resistance is crucial. It’s the perfect solution for those looking for a stylish yet functional solution.

And what about terraces? Yes, microcement is also an excellent choice for the outdoors. Thanks to its resistance to changing weather conditions, microcement will work well on terraces or balconies.It’s a flexible, stylish and practical choice for any room in the house.

Microcement in the living room

The living room, as the heart of the home, a place to relax and meet with loved ones, requires an appropriate choice of materials. Microcement, thanks to its properties, will perform perfectly in this role. It can cover floors, walls, furniture and even the ceiling, creating a unified, harmonious whole.

Its resistance to high traffic means that the living room will remain elegant for many years. The richness of microcement’s colors will allow you to accentuate your chosen interior style, from Scandinavian through rustic, modern to eclectic boho.

In addition, microcement blends well with other materials, such as metal, wood and stone, adding an original character to interiors. Regardless of the chosen combinations, the use of microcement in the living room is a guarantee of a unique and lasting end result.

Microcement in the bedroom

The bedroom is a space that should be conducive to relaxation and rest. It is an intimate place where details, such as the color scheme and texture of the materials used, are important. Microcement, offered in a wide range of muted and neutral shades, fits perfectly into these needs.

It can cover floors, walls and even the ceiling, creating a warm, consistent and cozy environment. Thus, anyone can customize a bedroom according to their preferences and needs, while creating a personalized and harmonious interior.

Whether microcement is used on all surfaces or only on selected ones, its natural shades and subtle texture will help create the atmosphere of calm and tranquility so necessary in a bedroom space.

Microcement in the kitchen

The kitchen, as a place of intensive use and creative cooking, requires materials that are resistant and easy to clean. Microcement meets these criteria, being an excellent choice for these rooms. Thanks to its water resistance and durability, it will work well as a kitchen countertop, floor, or space between cabinets and countertop.

Microcement in the kitchen is not only practical, but also introduces elegance and modernity. When combined with furniture made of other materials, such as wood, stone or marble, it will create a diverse and attractive interior.

Microcement can be adapted to many kitchen design styles, from minimalist through Scandinavian to industrial. 

Microcement in the bathroom

Microcement also works perfectly in the bathroom, offering great design possibilities. It perfectly harmonizes with other materials – wood, stone or ceramic tiles, creating one-of-a-kind, harmonious combinations.

Its water resistance makes it an excellent choice not only for floors and walls, but also for bathroom countertops and shower surfaces, including areas with direct contact with water. The ability to create unique basins from microcement is an added bonus that emphasizes the modern nature of this solution.

One of the greatest advantages of microcement in the bathroom is the ease of cleaning. The lack of joints eliminates places where bacteria could accumulate, which is especially important in such a delicate space as a bathroom. This underscores the practicality of microcement, while remaining elegant and modern.

Microcement on the terrace

Microcement on the terrace is a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution, ideal for spaces exposed to changing weather conditions. The flexibility of microcement makes it possible to create unique, attractive surfaces that work perfectly with a variety of materials. A balustrade of metal, glass or wood, combined with microcement flooring, will create a cohesive and harmonious whole.

The style of a microcement terrace can be tailored to individual tastes, from raw and natural finishes to modern and minimalist arrangements. No matter what style you choose, microcement for your terrace guarantees durability and a unique look.

Microcement vs. architectural concrete – similarities and differences

Microcement and architectural concrete are two different materials that, although seemingly similar, have different compositions and applications.

Microcement, is a flexible, multi-component mixture that contains, among other things, cement, resins and pigments. As a result, it forms a thin-layer, extremely resistant coating that is ideal for finishing walls, floors and even furniture. It can be successfully used in any room of the house, as well as outside, creating striking, uniform surfaces.

Architectural concrete, on the other hand, is a mixture of cement, aggregates and additives, which, when mixed with water, thickens, perfectly taking the shape of the form. Thanks to its strength and specificity, it is perfect for creating all sorts of castings: from facade panels, flooring, parquet floors, to elements of small architecture, such as tables, benches and flower pots. Kitchen countertops or washbasins made of it add a unique industrial character to rooms.

Microcement vs. polished concrete – the differences

Polished concrete, also known as decorative concrete, and microcement are two unique materials that are often confused with each other. Their popularity in modern design and architecture is growing, despite the fact that each has its own specific characteristics and features. The two materials, although often combined with industrial style, differ from each other in many key aspects.

The difference lies not only in the composition of the products, but also in the thickness and the method of application and processing. Polished concrete is a system with a thickness of about 8 mm upwards (even up to several centimeters), which is poured and then trowelled using mechanical trowels. Several days after application, decorative concrete is ground using professional concrete grinders with diamond discs to give it its final appearance.

Differences between the two materials include:

1. Layer thickness
Microcement is usually applied in a thin layer of about 2-3 mm, while polished concrete has a layer of 8 mm to several centimeters, which means that, unlike microcement, it can only be applied to floors and not also to walls or ceilings.

2. Color range
Microcement offers a wide range of colors (up to several thousand), while polished concrete is usually limited to a few basic colors.

3. Application method
Microcement is applied by hand and ground with light grinders, while polished concrete is formed on site using traditional concrete methods. It is trowelled with heavy industrial trowels and then polished with advanced concrete grinders.

4. Surface texture
Microcement gives a smooth finish with a fine texture that can be felt under the fingers, while polished concrete is smooth and slippery.

5. Visual differences
Microcement offers the possibility of molding many colors and textures, while polished concrete is usually made with a high-gloss finish that shows the structure of the concrete.

6. Price and place of application
Unlike microcement, polished concrete is more commonly used on larger areas due to the unprofitability of using it on a smaller scale. Application of this material requires specialized, heavy equipment and experience, making it rarely used in the context of homes or smaller spaces. This uneconomical approach leads to a limited number of specialists and renovation teams that choose to work with polished concrete in small areas.

In conclusion, both microcement and polished concrete have a lot to offer in terms of design and functionality. The choice between the two should depend on the specifics of the project, individual preferences, budget, as well as expected durability.

Types of microcement system

FESTFLOOR® GO!
MICROCEMENT READY TO USE

Festfloor Go! is a one-component microcement that is ready for application as soon as you open the package. Festfloor Go! is distinguished by its liquid consistency, high durability and adhesion. Its finish is smooth and velvety, with a subtle microcement texture. Festfloor Go! microcement is ideal for use both indoors and outdoors, in dry and wet areas, as well as in high traffic areas. It is excellent for floors, walls, ceilings, as well as a finish for furniture and countertops. Thanks to its ready-to-use formula, this product is feasible for both professionals and individual customers.

FESTFLOOR® LIFE
PERFECT FOR INDOOR USE

Festfloor Life is a two-component microcement system for self-preparation. It consists of dry cement compound, liquid polymer and pigment. This product, due to its natural properties, allows you to create both smooth surfaces, and to bring out the characteristic microcement effect of an uneven structure, with scorches or so-called “clouds”.
Its main use is for floors in apartments, restaurants or offices, but its functionality does not end here. It can also be successfully used on walls, ceilings, and as a finish for furniture or kitchen countertops.

FESTWALL
MICROCEMENT PERFECT FOR WALLS

Festwall Life is a two-component microcement system, characterized by remarkable flexibility. It consists of a dry cement compound, a liquid polymer and a pigment for self-preparation. This lighter version of Festfloor Life microcement is ideal for vertical surfaces like walls, ceilings and furniture cladding. It can be used to create both smooth surfaces and a non-uniform texture with a scorch effect, or “clouds.” It is great for making finishes in apartments, offices, on furniture and countertops. Using Festwall microcement will provide durability and a unique look to even the most demanding spaces.

ONLINE SHOP
We offer ready-to-use sets of microcement system to finish a specific area of the house.

Advantages and disadvantages of microcement

Microcement, with its versatile application possibilities and attractive appearance, is attracting increasing attention as a finishing building material. However, like any material, it has its unique advantages and potential disadvantages, which are worth considering before deciding to use it.

Advantages of microcement:

• Versatility of application: microcement can be used virtually anywhere – on walls, floors, ceilings, furniture, in dry and wet areas, indoors and outdoors.

• Application to existing surfaces: microcement can be directly applied to existing surfaces such as ceramic tiles, reducing work time and eliminating the need for costly removal of the old surface.

• Aesthetics and fit with different styles: microcement has a unique aesthetic and is available in many colors and textures. It fits many interior design styles, including industrial, rustic, minimalist, loft, Scandinavian and many others.

• Seamless and hypoallergenic surfaces: microcement allows you to create smooth, seamless surfaces that add elegance to any room. In addition, they are easy to clean, making it easy to maintain hygiene, and hypoallergenic, helping to improve indoor air quality.

• Durability and water resistance: microcement is a durable and scratch- and water-resistant material. 

• Time and money saving: because microcement can be applied independently, it also provides opportunities to save time and money on contractor costs.

• Eco-friendliness: microcement is an environmentally friendly product with no volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Disadvantages of microcement:

• Cost of contractor: microcement is a unique material that requires specialized knowledge and experience. Because of this, a second contractor, specializing only in microcement, is usually required during a renovation, which can increase overall costs.

• Substrate requirements: microcement needs a stable, dry and crack-free substrate. An inadequately prepared substrate can lead to cracks and other problems.

• Risk of damage: although highly resistant, microcement is still susceptible to heavier mechanical damage, such as scratches and dents, especially in high-traffic areas.

• Not always the best choice: microcement may not be the best choice in some situations, such as on substrates of questionable quality, in garages or other areas where it may come into direct contact with tires.

It is worth remembering that the decision to choose microcement, like any material, should be based on a careful evaluation of its advantages and disadvantages in the context of specific needs and expectations.

How to lay microcement?

The application of microcement is a precise process that you can do yourself or use specialized companies that perform this type of service on a daily basis. 

The key to realizing durable and satisfactory microcement surfaces is proper surface preparation and application of the material according to the step-by-step technical sheet.

1. Before applying the target material, it is important to make sure that the substrate is stable, load-bearing, level, free of irregularities and dirt, and with minimal moisture content (less than 4%).

2. Next, the prepared substrate should be properly primed, which will significantly affect the adhesion of microcement and reveal any damage. If there are any cavities or cracks in the substrate, they should be repaired before applying microcement.

When applying to floors, especially those with underfloor heating, it is recommended to reinforce the substrate with a basecoat and fiberglass mesh. This will protect the floor from possible cracks from the substrate in the future. Such a solution is also recommended for insecure and cracked substrates.

Before starting the actual application, it is important to prepare all products according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

3. The application of microcement involves applying the material in thin layers not exceeding 1 mm in thickness. Each layer should be spread evenly, trying to work with the “wet-on-wet” method, that is, applying the next layer on top of the not yet fully dried previous layer, which ensures better bonding of the layers. After applying each layer, it is recommended to let the floor dry for about 2 to 4 hours (depending on temperature and humidity) and then sand it before applying the next layer. After applying at least two coats, the microcement should be left to harden on its own, which usually takes about 24 hours.

4. The final step in the process is the application of a sealer, which will secure the entire microcement surface, providing protection from moisture, dirt and possible discoloration.

All the mentioned steps, although requiring precision, are fully manageable on your own. The ready-to-use microcement system – FESTFLOOR GO! is easier to apply and is recommended for those starting their adventure with microcement.  As a result, microcement application can be a rewarding project for anyone who wants to bring a modern and durable decor to their interior.

How to protect microcement from wear and tear? – sealer for microcement

Sealer protection of microcement, is the last and particularly important part of the application process. It is with the help of a suitable impregnant that we “close” the whole system and provide it with the target durability and resistance to water and damage. Depending on the specific surface and its application, there are several options for selecting the right sealer.

Floors in dry areas

For floors in rooms such as living rooms, hallways and bedrooms, where microcement may be exposed to heavy traffic, the best solution is to use two coats of a water-based sealer (PU FEST 2K), or in particularly heavily used rooms one or even two coats of a solvent-based sealer (PU FEST Turbo). 

Floors in wet areas

When dealing with floors in rooms exposed to water and moisture, such as kitchens or bathrooms, including showers, and outdoors, where microcement may come into direct contact with water, the best solution is to use a solvent-based sealer (PU FEST Turbo). On this type of flooring, it is recommended to apply one or two coats of sealer, depending on the level of exposure to water and weather conditions.

Walls in dry areas

For walls in dry rooms, such as living rooms, hallways and bedrooms, microcement application is as effective as on floors. In such cases, a single coat of water-based sealer (PU Fest 2K) is usually sufficient. This type of sealer provides protection and fixation of the microcement wall surface, so one will enjoy a long-lasting, aesthetic effect without the need for additional coats.

Walls in wet areas

On walls in wet areas, such as kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor areas with limited contact with water, it is recommended to apply two coats of water-based sealer (PU FEST 2K) to permanently protect the microcement from moisture and splashes. For more moisture-exposed walls, one coat of solvent-based sealer (PU FEST Turbo) will provide higher water resistance and longer durability.

How to maintain a microcement surface?

Proper care of microcement is key to maintaining its great appearance and durability over many years. Here are some practical tips to help keep microcement in excellent condition:

• Object protection: Avoid placing heavy objects directly on the microcement surface. It’s a good idea to use felt furniture pads to distribute weight evenly and prevent dents.

• Quick stain removal: In case of spills, especially liquids such as oil, wine, coffee or beet juice, remove stains immediately to avoid permanent discoloration.

• Regular vacuuming: Regular dry vacuuming of microcement will help maintain its aesthetic appearance and prevent the accumulation of dust and dirt.

• Specialized agents: Dedicated products for cleaning and protecting microcement that do not damage the surface are the best way to prolong the life of this material. Preparations such as FESTCleaner or FESTCalc will help keep microcement clean and fresh.

• Additional protection: To protect microcement from moisture and mechanical damage, consider using a wax-based impregnator, such as FF Wax. Such a product will form a waterproof coating, providing additional protection.
• Surface restoration: If the microcement is damaged or discolored after prolonged use, a gentle sanding of the top layer of the sealer and the application of a new impregnating coating can be carried out. This will refresh and restore the original appearance of the microcement surface.

Taking care of microcement is a guarantee of its longevity and aesthetic appearance. Following the above tips will allow you to enjoy its durability for many years.

Can a microcement finish be done by yourself?

The application of microcement as an interior finish is a task that each person should evaluate in terms of their own skills and experience. Microcement, despite its ease of application, requires precision and some technical proficiency. At Festfloor, we make every effort to make this process as accessible as possible to as many people as possible.

It is for this reason that the Festfloor GO microcement system was created – a product that is ready to use as soon as you open the bucket. The microcement application consists of three main steps: priming, applying microcement and applying sealer. This simple three-step process was created to make it easier for our customers to apply microcement themselves.

For those who would like to gain confidence before applying microcement themselves, FestFloor offers training sessions on the basics of applying this material or using it on stairs. These gatherings are not only an opportunity to learn the theory, but more importantly a chance to gain practical experience under the guidance of experienced professionals.

In addition, to meet the needs of those who do not have the opportunity to attend our training courses, we have prepared instructional videos and blog articles. They are an excellent source of knowledge, showing in a practical and accessible way how to apply microcement step by step. This is an ideal tool for learning and improving skills in the comfort of your own home.

At Festfloor, we firmly believe that our products should be accessible and understandable to everyone, regardless of experience. To make this possible, we always strive to be available to our customers to answer their questions and address any concerns that may arise during the microcement application process. Our goal is to make everyone who decides to use our products feel confident and comfortable throughout the entire process, from the selection of materials to the application itself. Regardless of your level of experience, we are here to help and ensure that our products will serve you best.

How much does microcement cost?

The price of microcement is a topic that often raises many questions. As a rule, pricing is individual and depends on many factors that can affect the final cost of the project.

First of all, it is worth distinguishing between the price of the material itself and the price of performing the work. The price of material per square meter ranges from 12-35 euros, depending on the size and type of surface to be covered. For example, a complex set of Festfloor Life microcement designed for 10m2 of flooring costs 209 euros, and a set designed to finish 15m2 of walls, with Festwall microcement, costs only 120 euros.

However, if we are talking about the price including workmanship, the amount increases significantly. The cost per square meter, including substrate preparation, priming, sealer, cutting expansion joints and the rest of the contractor’s work, fluctuates between 70-150 euros/m2, varying from country to country. However, this amount may change, depending on several important aspects.

1. The type of substrate, whether concrete, anhydrite, tiles, may require additional primers, reinforcers or sealers, which increases the cost of materials. Also, wet rooms, such as bathrooms or kitchens, may require an additional layer of sealer for better protection.
2. The price of making stairs is priced either on the total work or on the number of steps. Preparing and leveling stairs to a uniform height is a very labor-intensive process, so stairs are usually priced differently from other areas.
3. Location and the cost of hiring a professional team also matter. Prices can vary depending on the region and the experience of the installation team. Keep in mind that you can always choose to apply microcement yourself, which can reduce the overall cost of the project.

FAQ – The most common questions about microcement

What is the correct thickness of microcement?

The optimal thickness of microcement is 2-3 mm, taking into account the primer, sealer, as well as the fiberglass mesh and base on the substrate.

What are the advantages of microcement flooring?

There are many advantages of microcement flooring, but its main advantages are durability, ease of cleaning, water resistance and exceptional aesthetics.

Can microcement be placed outside?

Yes, microcement can be used outdoors, but it is necessary to protect it with a proper sealer suitable for weather conditions.

Is microcement suitable for wet rooms?

Yes, microcement can be used in wet rooms, but it is important to choose the right sealer to strengthen its resistance and seal the entire system.

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