Microcement has become a go-to solution for creating sleek, modern, and durable surfaces in residential and commercial spaces. Its versatility, seamless finish, and ability to adhere to a variety of substrates have made it popular in everything from floors to walls and countertops. However, when it comes to high-moisture areas, like showers, it’s important to ask: Can microcement truly be used in a shower?
As manufacturers and contractors in the building and renovation industries, understanding the capabilities, limitations, and best practices of using microcement in wet environments is crucial for ensuring the longevity, performance, and aesthetic quality of the application.
In this blog, we’ll address whether microcement is suitable for showers, how to apply it properly, and how to avoid common issues. We’ll also explore the necessary preparations and considerations that ensure a waterproof, durable, and stylish finish.
What is Microcement?
Microcement is a thin, cement-based coating composed of cement, resins, and additives that allow for a seamless, durable finish. Unlike traditional cement-based materials, it can be applied in very thin layers (typically between 2–3 mm) to create a smooth, continuous surface. Microcement is renowned for its aesthetic flexibility and strength, and it can be used on almost any surface, including floors, walls, and countertops.
However, its application in wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and specifically showers requires careful consideration to ensure it performs as expected.
Microcement in Showers: Is It Feasible?
The short answer is yes—microcement can be used in showers, but it is essential to ensure proper preparation and application to guarantee its effectiveness and longevity. Showers are areas exposed to constant water and high humidity, so additional steps must be taken to ensure the microcement resists moisture and doesn’t deteriorate over time.
1. Waterproofing: The Most Crucial Step
Before applying microcement in a shower, the waterproofing layer is paramount. Without it, moisture can seep through the microcement and affect the underlying substrate, leading to cracks, peeling, and, in extreme cases, mold growth. Waterproofing ensures that water stays on the surface, preventing it from penetrating and causing long-term damage.
Steps to Ensure Waterproofing:
- Waterproof Membrane: Apply a liquid waterproofing membrane (e.g., a cementitious waterproofing layer) over the shower walls and floor. This acts as a barrier to water, preventing moisture from reaching the substrate beneath the microcement layer.
- Waterproofing Primer: In some cases, you may need a waterproofing primer designed for microcement. These primers can be applied over the membrane to improve adhesion between the substrate and microcement.
- Sealing: Once the microcement is applied and cured, it should be sealed with a water-repellent sealant to provide a protective layer against water damage, stains, and soap scum buildup. This step is crucial for ensuring the longevity of the finish in high-moisture areas.
2. Surface Preparation: Thorough and Precise
Proper surface preparation is always essential when applying microcement, but it’s especially critical in wet areas like showers. Ensuring the surface is smooth, free from cracks, and clean will guarantee the microcement adheres correctly.
- Clean the Surface: Ensure the substrate (tiles, concrete, plasterboard, etc.) is free from dirt, grease, or other contaminants. Use a degreasing solution, rinse, and allow the surface to dry.
- Repair Cracks or Holes: Any imperfections in the substrate need to be filled or repaired before applying the microcement. Even small cracks can lead to issues with adhesion or cause problems down the line.
- Primer Application: As mentioned earlier, applying a primer specifically designed for microcement ensures the coating will adhere correctly to the substrate. This is even more important when working with substrates like tile or drywall, which may not naturally bond with microcement.
3. Application Process: Layer by Layer
When applying microcement in a shower, it is vital to use multiple thin layers. Applying too thick a layer can lead to cracking, especially when exposed to moisture and thermal changes in a shower environment.
Application Steps:
- Base Layer: Start with a base layer of microcement. Use a trowel or steel float to apply the first coat. This layer will form the foundation for the subsequent layers.
- Smooth the Surface: After each coat, smooth the surface using a float to remove any imperfections and create a consistent finish. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next.
- Top Coats: Apply additional layers, making sure to sand between each layer for an even finish. Typically, 3–4 layers are needed for optimal durability and performance.
- Sealing the Surface: Once the microcement is applied and cured, a sealing layer is essential to protect it from water penetration, stains, and general wear. This final step ensures that the shower area remains both functional and aesthetically appealing.
Challenges of Using Microcement in Showers
While microcement can be successfully applied to shower areas, there are some challenges to consider:
1. Maintenance
Even though microcement is highly durable, it will require regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. This includes periodic sealing, cleaning, and checking for any potential signs of wear, especially in high-traffic areas like shower walls and floors.
2. Risk of Cracking
Microcement is generally resistant to cracking, but the wet environment of a shower can exacerbate movement in the underlying structure. This is particularly important if the substrate wasn’t properly prepared or if there are fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Cracking can lead to water penetration, which compromises the integrity of the finish.
Solution: Proper waterproofing and ensuring that the substrate is stable before application will minimize this risk.
3. Cost Considerations
Microcement is more expensive than traditional tile or plaster options. While it offers superior aesthetic value and durability, it may not always be the most cost-effective solution for all shower applications, especially if the project requires extensive surface preparation or multiple layers of microcement.
4. Professional Application Required
For optimal results, microcement application in showers should generally be performed by skilled professionals. The process involves multiple layers, specialized tools, and an in-depth understanding of how to work with cementitious materials in a wet environment. Improper application can lead to adhesion issues, moisture penetration, and premature wear.
Advantages of Microcement in Showers
Despite the challenges, there are several key benefits to using microcement in shower areas:
- Seamless Finish: Microcement offers a continuous, seamless finish that eliminates the need for grout lines, creating a modern, minimalist look. This not only enhances the aesthetic but also makes cleaning easier.
- Aesthetic Flexibility: Microcement is highly customizable, available in a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes. This allows you to create a unique design for each project, whether it’s a commercial space or a luxury bathroom.
- Durability: Once applied and sealed correctly, microcement can withstand heavy moisture, frequent use, and general wear and tear in a shower setting.
- Low Maintenance: Compared to traditional tiles, microcement requires less maintenance. There are no grout lines to clean or tiles to replace, and the surface can be easily wiped down to remove water spots, soap scum, or stains.
Conclusion: Is Microcement a Good Choice for Showers?
Microcement can be an excellent choice for shower areas, provided that it is applied correctly. Its seamless aesthetic, durability, and versatility make it ideal for modern, minimalist shower designs. However, it’s essential to consider factors such as proper waterproofing, surface preparation, and professional application to ensure the final result meets the expected standards of performance and longevity.
For manufacturers and contractors, ensuring the proper processes and products are in place—especially with regard to waterproofing and sealing—will help you maximize the benefits of microcement while avoiding potential issues in wet environments.