Microcement - Stone Care Guide

Microcement Stone Care Guide

Properties, maintenance, and expert advice for microcement surfaces

Hardness4/10 Mohs
PorosityMedium
Acid SensitiveYes - avoid acid products
Frost ResistantNo - seal for outdoor use
Slip Risk (wet)Low

About Microcement

Microcement (also marketed as béton ciré, Mortex, microtopping) is a polymer-modified cement coating applied in thin layers (2-3mm) over existing surfaces. It creates a seamless, joint-free appearance that has become one of the most popular interior finishes in European design. Unlike poured concrete, microcement can be applied over tiles, wood, plaster, and even furniture, making it a renovation favourite.

The material is a blend of cement, fine aggregite, polymers, and pigments, sealed with a protective topcoat (usually polyurethane or epoxy). The visual result resembles polished concrete but with more warmth and variation. Each application is unique - the trowel marks, colour depth, and subtle texture variations are part of the design intent.

Microcement's care requirements depend entirely on the topcoat quality. A well-applied polyurethane sealer makes the surface water-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy to clean. But the topcoat wears over time, especially on floors, and when it fails, the cement underneath is exposed - porous and acid-sensitive. Regular topcoat maintenance (re-seal every 2-5 years on floors) is the single most important care consideration.

Characteristics

  • Polymer-modified cement coating
  • Applied in thin layers (2-3mm)
  • Seamless, joint-free appearance
  • Topcoat-dependent durability
  • Can be applied over existing surfaces
  • Each application is unique

Common Uses

  • Bathroom floors and walls
  • Kitchen worktops
  • Living room floors
  • Shower walls (wet areas)
  • Furniture surfaces
  • Retail and restaurant interiors

Popular Varieties

  • Mortex (Belgian, most established brand)
  • Béton ciré (French tradition)
  • Microtopping (thin overlay, 1mm)
  • Pandomo (German brand, polymer-rich)
  • Custom colour mixes (virtually any colour possible)

Care Essentials

  • Topcoat condition is everything - inspect and maintain the sealer
  • Clean with pH-neutral products only - even if the topcoat is intact, acids attack micro-cracks
  • Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads - will scratch the topcoat
  • Re-seal floors every 2-3 years, walls every 4-5 years
  • Wipe water from shower walls after use to prevent limescale
  • Avoid dragging furniture - the topcoat is softer than stone

Common Problems

  • Topcoat wear on high-traffic areas
  • Limescale buildup in wet areas
  • Staining when topcoat is compromised
  • Scratching from grit and furniture
  • Cracking over moving substrates
  • Colour variation between batches or touch-ups

Recommended Products for Microcement

Need personalised advice?

Use our Lithofinder to find the right product for your specific microcement problem, or chat with our stone care expert.