As microcement continues to gain traction across industrial, commercial, and residential applications, professionals in architecture, manufacturing, and construction are increasingly exploring its flexibility—not just in form and texture, but also in finish. One frequently asked question from contractors and specifiers alike is: can you paint over microcement?
The short answer is yes—you can paint over microcement—but doing so successfully depends on several critical factors, including the condition of the microcement surface, the type of paint, and the intended use of the area. This blog provides a professional, SEO-optimised deep dive into this subject, offering expert insights for experienced industry stakeholders.
Understanding Microcement as a Substrate
Microcement is a polymer-modified cementitious coating applied in thin layers (usually 2–3 mm). Once cured and sealed, it creates a dense, durable, and waterproof surface that is highly resistant to abrasion and UV radiation. It’s commonly used in high-performance environments such as kitchens, bathrooms, commercial interiors, and even industrial floors.
When considering painting over microcement, the surface must be treated with the same level of diligence as any non-porous, sealed substrate.
When Would You Want to Paint Over Microcement?
Professionals may consider painting over microcement in the following scenarios:
- To change the colour or refresh the aesthetic after a few years of wear
- To match a specific design brief or brand identity in commercial interiors
- To repair or conceal minor surface imperfections
- To apply specialist coatings, such as anti-slip or chemical-resistant paints in industrial environments
Key Considerations Before Painting
1. Surface Condition
The microcement surface must be:
- Clean and free of grease, wax, or dust
- Free of cracks, peeling, or loose sealant
- Completely cured (minimum 7–14 days after final sealing)
2. Sealer Type
Most microcement systems are sealed with polyurethane or acrylic sealers, which form a non-porous barrier. This sealer will affect paint adhesion, and typically requires mechanical abrasion (e.g., sanding) to create a key for the paint to bond effectively.
Important: If the microcement has been waxed or oiled, these layers must be fully removed.
3. Paint Compatibility
Use paints that are compatible with sealed, non-absorbent surfaces. Recommended options include:
- Two-part epoxy paints (ideal for high-traffic or industrial applications)
- PU-based floor paints
- High-adhesion primers followed by acrylic or alkyd-based topcoats
Avoid standard wall emulsions or paints not formulated for slick surfaces, as they may peel or flake over time.
Step-by-Step: How to Paint Over Microcement
Here is a professional workflow for applying paint over an existing microcement surface:
Step 1: Surface Preparation
- Sand the surface using 120–180 grit to break the sealant glaze
- Vacuum and degrease the surface using a solvent cleaner or detergent
- Allow to dry thoroughly
Step 2: Apply Primer
- Use a bonding primer compatible with non-porous substrates (e.g., epoxy primer or multi-surface adhesion promoter)
- Allow sufficient drying time per manufacturer’s instructions
Step 3: Apply Paint or Coating
- Apply the selected topcoat using a roller or sprayer
- Follow manufacturer-recommended curing times between coats
- Apply 2–3 coats depending on desired opacity and durability
Step 4: Optional Topcoat Sealer
- For added durability or water resistance, apply a clear polyurethane sealant over the paint, especially in wet or high-traffic areas
Real-World Use Cases
Commercial Retail Interiors
A retail client may want to refresh a microcement floor with brand-specific colours seasonally. In this case, a tinted epoxy coating offers both aesthetics and abrasion resistance.
Hospitality Renovations
Hotels updating guestroom interiors may opt to repaint microcement feature walls to reduce downtime and renovation cost.
Industrial Warehouses
Painting over microcement with chemical-resistant coatings is common in industrial environments requiring surface protection against oils, solvents, or acids.
Risks and Limitations
While painting over microcement is technically feasible, it introduces additional maintenance complexity. Common challenges include:
- Potential delamination if surface prep is poor
- Visible wear and tear on lighter paints in high-traffic zones
- Reduced breathability if using impermeable coatings over cementitious substrates in moisture-prone areas
Professional Tip: When longevity is a priority, consider recolouring with microcement pigments and resealing, rather than painting.
Alternatives to Painting
Before committing to painting, manufacturers and installers might consider:
- Reapplying a coloured microcement finish over the existing sealed surface
- Applying a pigmented sealer to subtly change tone without altering the texture
- Tinted waxes or microcoatings that enhance appearance without the bulk of paint
These methods offer better long-term performance while retaining the integrity of the microcement surface.
Conclusion: Yes, But Proceed with Caution
Painting over microcement is technically viable and can be effective in the right circumstances. However, it demands careful preparation, the correct choice of materials, and realistic expectations about wear and durability. For manufacturers, architects, and contractors, this approach can extend the visual versatility of microcement while aligning with changing design demands—but it should never be a shortcut for proper maintenance or professional reapplication.