Microcement floors

Why choose a microcement floor

A microcement floor is a thin, hand-trowelled finish, around 2–3 mm in total, that bonds to a suitable existing base and creates one continuous surface. Without tile joints or board lines, rooms feel larger and calmer, and the finish can continue from the entry through the kitchen and living areas without a change of material.

It also differs from a poured floor. Polished concrete is a thick slab that is ground back, whereas microcement is a coating applied over what is already there. The comparison of microcement and polished concrete sets out the differences in thickness, joints and finish, and microcement vs tiles covers the other common alternative.

Suitable bases and preparation

What lies beneath matters more than anything else. Suitable substrates include cement mortar, self-levelling mortar, existing tiles, terrazzo and marble, provided the base is stable, level, free of dirt and below 5% humidity. Timber floorboards and other surfaces made of pieces that move at different rates are not advised.

Preparation removes anything that could stop the primer bonding, and tiles are checked to confirm they are firmly adhered. Existing joints in a slab are reviewed as part of the assessment, because a finish cannot stop movement in the structure beneath it.

Underfloor heating and microcement floors

Microcement can be laid over underfloor heating, but the base needs to be properly set and the heating run in before work starts. An expansion joint is also required between the screed and the walls so the base can move.

The underfloor heating guide sets out each stage, including the water temperatures involved.

Colour, texture and sheen underfoot

A floor is one continuous plane, so a colour that looks subtle on a sample can feel stronger across a whole room. Soft greys such as Gris, Plomo and Aluminium are calm and forgiving of everyday dust, Mocha and Cacao bring warmth, and Gris Marengo grounds a larger space.

A smoother, higher-sheen finish reflects more light, while a matte finish looks softer and more mineral. Slip resistance depends on the texture, sealer and use, so agree the requirement with your builder or the relevant professional for each project, particularly in bathrooms, entries and commercial spaces.

Cost, timing and care

As a general guide, application falls within $160–$300 AUD per square metre, including materials and labour, varying with the condition of the substrate, the complexity of the work and other requirements. The microcement cost guide breaks down what influences the figure, and you can request a quote for your own floor.

Application typically takes 5–7 days. Keep foot traffic light in the first week while the surface continues to harden, then sweep regularly, damp-mop with a pH-neutral cleaner and fit felt pads under furniture. Where the floor continues onto a staircase, see microcement stairs.