What is in Microcement?
As a cement-based product, you’ll find that microcement contains some of the additives you may discover in other decorative coatings.
It is mainly made up of resins, colourants, binders, cement and then water.
Some formulations may contain other elements but this will vary from supplier to supplier.
Like any recipe or a trademarked secret, they’ll all have their own specific ratio and colourants to achieve the finishes they offer.
As a cementitious finish, the very nature of it will be comparable in many cases to finishes similar to concrete and cement, making it ideal for those who enjoy this design influence.
Why Does Microcement Cost More Than Other Options?
As a premium choice for floors, walls and bathrooms, microcement will naturally cost more than other options available.
This is the nature of choices in life.
If you are budget-driven, then there will be other materials options that may be more suited to your project.
The raw materials and processing that they go through, along with import duties and transportation costs, all add up and are factored into the price of microcement.
Also, since it is a specialist product and not for the D.I.Y market, those who fancy having a go are often deterred by the investment of having to pay to learn.
The ones who do get stuck in with no official training will often come unstuck, and clients then have to seek a suitably skilled installer to rectify their mess.
“If you pay cheap, you pay twice” comes to mind here and rings true in many trades.
There’s a reason most installers’ quotes will be around the same, so being suspicious of anything that seems too cheap or too good to be true will usually have a reason behind that.
Is Microcement Worth It?
Like any decorative finishing option, it’ll be down to you to decide if microcement is worth using.
Finish options are very subjective and based on personal; tastes.
If you’re keen on a seamless finish and texture, it will probably appeal to you.
Hate tiles? Then excellent micro cement could be the answer you’re looking for.
Love carpet, but aren’t you so fond of natural stone, architectural coatings, or design trends?
Maybe microcement isn’t your ideal choice.
As you can see, the objective views and where you plan to install it will need to be considered.
We think it’s well worth the investment, and when compared side by side against other options for your floors, walls and bathrooms, you’d be surprised just how comparable microcement can be.
Especially true when you consider the lifespan of the product.
When used in a wet area or bathroom, we should also acknowledge how costly waste damage can be, typical of old tiled installations and grout that have broken down over the years.
Could I Install Microcement Myself To Save Money?
You could install microcement topping yourself to save on labour costs. However, we wouldn’t recommend doing so if you’ve not been adequately trained on how to do so.
These products are not the same as just getting out a paintbrush at the weekend and having a go for fun.
Mistakes or errors can be costly and time-consuming to rectify.
If you’re practising in your own home for fun or on sample boards ten, it’s not the end of the world, but it is not advisable or ethical to charge paying customers.
Unfortunately, in the world of trades, not everyone thinks like us, and there will be ‘installers’ who will happily buy some products, have a go, and then when they mess it up, or there are problems further on down the line, they’re conveniently ‘too busy’ to rectify this or get back to you.
How Long Will Microcement Last?
When installed correctly microcement will last a long time, typically you’d look to redecorate your home every 5-10 years or as tastes change.
Microcement will still be looking great then, providing it’s been cared for.
The beauty of this product is if you do get bored of it, or fancy changing the colour it can be sanded, prepared and recoated in a new shade.
Consider though which could exist and what you plan to go over it with.
Dark will go over light quite easily, however doing the opposite will present its own set of challenges.
If you are uncertain and need some expert guidance drop us an email over at hello@signature-walls.co.uk