Microcement bathrooms

Why microcement suits bathroom renovations

A microcement bathroom is built from thin, hand-trowelled layers rather than a grid of tiles, so the floor, walls and fittings can share one uninterrupted surface. With a total build-up of only 2–3 mm, the finish can often be applied over what is already there instead of replacing it.

That makes it a practical choice when the layout still works but the finishes feel dated. The microcement application itself typically takes 5–7 days, depending on the size and complexity of the room, and involves much less demolition than a traditional rebuild. The bathroom renovation guide walks through the planning order.

Where microcement can go in a bathroom

Most bathroom surfaces can be included, provided the substrate beneath each one is suitable:

• Floors, over firmly bonded tiles, cement mortar or self-levelling mortar.
• Walls, from a single splash zone behind the basin to full height.
• Existing baths and bath surrounds, once the surface has been assessed.
• Vanity tops, niches and ledges built from a suitable, stable substrate.

Showers need more planning because they are the wettest part of the room, so they have their own page: microcement showers.

Preparing tiles and other substrates

Tiles are a common starting point. Each area is checked for tiles that are loose, cracked or sound hollow, because the finish can only be as stable as the surface beneath it. The substrate must also be clean, level and below 5% humidity before primer is applied.

Plaster, plasterboard, cement mortar, marble and terrazzo can also be suitable, while natural timber and substrates made from pieces that expand at different rates are not advised. The guide to microcement over tiles explains the preparation in more detail.

Keep the finish and the waterproofing separate in your planning. Microcement becomes water-resistant once sealed, but it is not a waterproofing membrane, so wet-area waterproofing requirements are confirmed with your builder or the relevant professional before work begins.

Heated bathroom floors can be finished too. The heating has to be run in beforehand and switched off at least 48 hours before application, then brought back up gradually once the work is complete.

Colour, texture and sheen

Bathrooms are often compact and lit by a single window or skylight, so colour shifts noticeably through the day. Pale finishes such as Blanco, Panacotta and Lino reflect light and keep a small room open, Mocha adds a soft, warm taupe, and Gris gives a cooler, cloud-like grey.

Texture and sheen belong to the same decision. A smooth, refined surface feels calm and minimal, while more visible trowel movement gives walls depth. View samples beside your tapware, joinery and stone before deciding, and send an enquiry to talk through the options.

Caring for a microcement bathroom

Day to day, a soft cloth or mop with a pH-neutral cleaner is usually all that is needed. Avoid abrasive pads, bleach and harsh acidic products such as strong limescale removers, because they can wear the sealer over time.

Wiping or squeegeeing wet areas after use limits water spotting. The surface keeps hardening for several weeks after application, so treat it gently in the first week, and plan to maintain the sealer over time. The cleaning and maintenance guide sets out a simple routine.