Last updated: 20 September 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you want to know about microcement, the difference with cast floors or beton ciré, and why we work with Forcrete.
1. What exactly is microcement?
Microcement is a thin, seamless finishing material based on cement, minerals and resin. It is applied by hand in multiple layers and is suitable for floors, walls, bathrooms, kitchens and stairs. The result is a clean, continuous surface without joints or seams. Learn more: View the interactive floor build-up.
2. How is it different from a cast floor or beton ciré?
Microcement is hand-trowelled and has a mineral finish with natural variation. An epoxy or PU cast floor is poured and generally has a more uniform surface. Beton ciré is a broad term for decorative cement-based finishes and can overlap with microcement. Thickness, weight, waterproofing and wear resistance depend on the selected product and complete build-up. Forcrete is waterproof before the sealer is applied; a suitable substrate and carefully finished connections remain essential in a bathroom. Learn more: Compare microcement with polished concrete.
3. Is microcement waterproof?
Yes, Forcrete describes its microcement system as waterproof before the sealer is applied. That is a material property, not a guarantee that every finished shower is automatically watertight. The substrate, corners, penetrations and drain connection must be suitable and carefully detailed. The sealer remains part of the finish and protects against soiling and wear. We assess the complete build-up for use in a bathroom or shower. Learn more: Read about microcement bathrooms.
4. Can microcement be applied over existing tiles?
Microcement can be applied over existing tiles when the tiled floor is suitable, stable and firmly fixed. We first check adhesion, cracks, grout lines, levelness and residual moisture. If the substrate is suitable, the tiles are roughened with a grinding machine to remove the glaze layer. We then apply the specified primer and preparation, followed by a 160 g/m2 reinforcement mesh in a scratch coat, the High Traffic Base XT and the chosen finish. Repairs or additional levelling may still be needed. When the existing tiled floor can remain, this can reduce demolition work. Learn more: View the interactive floor build-up, Read about microcement bathrooms.
5. Does microcement work with underfloor heating?
Underfloor heating can be combined with a microcement system specified for that use. The heating type, whether electric or water-fed, the screed and the complete floor build-up must be known beforehand. The completed commissioning protocol also matters. We tailor preparation and instructions for switching the heating off and restarting it to the project and the products used. Learn more: View the interactive floor build-up.
6. How do you maintain microcement?
Remove sand and dirt regularly and, after the permitted curing period, use a suitable pH-neutral cleaner according to the care instructions. Avoid abrasives, acids and steam cleaners. Protect the floor with appropriate furniture pads and inspect sealant joints in wet rooms. Signs of use depend on the finish, loading and care; a floor does not automatically stay identical for years. Dirt in the texture may eventually require professional cleaning. Confirm a method suitable for your finish first. Learn more: Read our real-world experience of daily use.
7. Why choose a certified installer?
Because the result depends entirely on the skill of the applicator. Microcement is applied by hand in multiple layers - each layer demands precision in timing and pressure. As a certified Forcrete installer, we are specifically trained in their systems and materials. This is not a marketing term but a requirement to work with Forcrete. Learn more: Read about our certified specialist.
8. Can microcement be used outdoors?
Outdoor use requires a system expressly specified by the manufacturer for that application and the local climate. Suitability indoors does not automatically mean suitability outdoors. Have exposure to rain, frost and UV, loading, drainage and ground moisture assessed before choosing a finish. Thermal insulation beneath a concrete slab does not replace appropriate moisture protection. The substrate, connections and movement joints must also suit outdoor use. We cannot confirm suitability without that assessment and product specification.
9. Is microcement prone to cracking?
Yes, microcement can crack when the substrate or structure moves. A suitable substrate, proper preparation and reinforcement in the selected system help distribute stress, but do not guarantee a crack-free surface. Existing cracks need investigation, and structural problems must be addressed before finishing. Necessary movement joints remain part of the floor build-up and must not simply be covered over. We assess these points before application and agree the required preparation for each project. Learn more: View the interactive floor build-up.
10. How much does microcement cost per m2?
Microcement starts from 140 euros per m2 for floors and from 180 euros per m2 for walls in wet areas such as bathrooms and showers. The final price depends on the condition of the substrate, the complexity of the space and the total surface area. A floor that requires additional levelling takes more time and materials, and a bathroom with many corners and niches demands more work than an open living floor. For larger projects we offer volume discounts: the more m2, the lower the price per m2. The price per m2 includes material and the application of the complete system. Preparation is charged separately: levelling a tiled floor 15 euro per m2, levelling a bathroom 60 euro per m2, stripping and roughening tiles 500 euro per project and 250 euro per niche. We apply a minimum project fee of 3,000 euro. All amounts exclude VAT. Our pricing page lists every rate with two worked examples. Learn more: View all rates and worked examples.
11. How long does it take to apply microcement?
A standard floor project takes an average of five to seven working days, depending on the surface area and complexity. This includes substrate preparation, primer, reinforcement mesh, scratch coat, multiple layers of microcement and the final sealer. Each operation follows the specified drying and recoating times. A bathroom typically takes five working days. It is smaller, but takes more time per square metre because of waterproofing and detailing around drains, niches and connections. Curing after completion is additional. Our terms specify at least 48 hours before light use, 7 days before water exposure and 28 days before full use. No standing water is allowed on the floor during the first 4 weeks. These periods do not replace the product-specific maintenance protocol. Ask us to confirm the waiting period for your finish before water exposure; a longer product-specific waiting period takes precedence.
12. How does drainage work in a microcement shower?
In a microcement shower, drainage is addressed during the preparation phase. The subfloor slopes towards the drain so water can flow away. The drain must suit the chosen floor build-up. Corners, penetrations, sealant joints and the drain connection also require appropriate watertight detailing. The waterproof properties of the Forcrete material do not replace these details. Sealant joints need inspection and maintenance. We assess the substrate, gradient and connections before work starts. Learn more: Read about microcement bathrooms.
13. Is microcement slippery when wet?
Microcement can become slippery when wet. Slip resistance depends on the chosen texture, sealer, contamination and maintenance. A bathroom or shower finish must suit its intended use and wet conditions. Ask for the specification and available test evidence for that exact finish; a test value for another product or texture does not automatically apply to your floor. We discuss this before selecting the material. Proper drainage and suitable maintenance remain necessary. Learn more: Read about microcement bathrooms.
14. How long does a microcement floor last?
A properly applied microcement floor is designed for long-term use and retains its appearance with suitable maintenance. Exact scratch and wear resistance depend on the selected Forcrete product, texture, sheen and loading. Forcrete publishes a hardness value only for the diamond-polished Micro-Quartz finish; it does not automatically apply to a matt floor. Longevity also depends on substrate quality, installer skill and maintenance after handover. Use a pH-neutral cleaner and follow the care guidance for the selected finish. Learn more: Read our real-world experience of daily use.
15. Do I need to remove skirting boards before microcement?
That depends on the existing skirting boards, their connection to the floor and the intended finish. Firmly fixed skirting boards can sometimes remain and are then carefully masked. Removal may be needed because of the floor build-up, damage or the required connection. We assess sealant around skirting separately, especially in wet rooms. If new skirting boards are planned, we agree when they can be fitted after the specified curing period.
16. How thick is microcement and do doors need trimming?
The thickness of the microcement finish is not the same as the complete floor build-up. Preparation, repairs, levelling and the selected base system can add height. Agree the complete build-up for your substrate and check doors, skirting and adjoining floors. Our interactive floor guide explains the components; the illustrated thicknesses are schematic. Learn more: View the interactive floor build-up.
17. Can microcement be applied to a wooden subfloor?
Yes, provided the wooden subfloor is sufficiently rigid and stable. Wood naturally moves with changes in temperature and humidity, and that movement must first be limited. Loose boards are secured and where necessary the floor is stiffened with bonded sheet material to create a dimensionally stable base. On top comes the standard build-up: epoxy primer, 160 g/m2 reinforcement mesh, scratch coat and the microcement finish. The mesh helps distribute stress, but cannot rule out structural movement or cracking. We always assess a wooden subfloor on site first: not every situation is suitable without additional measures. Learn more: View the interactive floor build-up.
18. Is microcement suitable for kitchens and worktops?
Microcement can be used on suitable kitchen floors, walls, splashbacks, worktops and kitchen islands. The continuous surface has no tile grout lines and can be cleaned with a suitable pH-neutral cleaner. The appropriate build-up and sealer depend on the substrate and intended use. Wipe up oil, wine, coffee and other spills promptly, and use a trivet for hot pans. For worktops, we discuss the expected loading, edges and connections beforehand.
19. What colours are available for microcement?
Microcement is available in a broad palette, from warm whites and sand tones to deep anthracite. You can also choose from four textures: smooth, medium, coarse or base XT, while the sealer determines a matt or satin appearance. Because microcement is applied by hand, every surface has natural variation. We prepare physical samples so you can assess colour, texture and finish in your space. A sample remains an indication: light, hand application and the scale of the surface can affect the final appearance. Learn more: Read the guide to colour and texture.
20. Can a microcement floor be repaired or refreshed?
Yes. Superficial scratches and dull spots can usually be resolved with the right maintenance wax or a fresh coat of sealer: this refreshes the entire surface without reapplying the floor. Local damage can also be repaired. A local touch-up is possible, but that patch stays visible: microcement is applied by hand and a repair never blends seamlessly into the existing work. That is why we prefer to finish a repair per surface or wall. Is a floor due for renewal after years of intensive use? A new top layer can often be applied over the existing microcement, without demolition. Learn more: Discuss your project.
21. What are the downsides of microcement?
Microcement is applied by hand using natural raw materials. Every floor is therefore unique, and colour and texture can differ slightly from the sample and vary between surfaces. Imperfections in the substrate stay visible in the result, so a poor substrate needs levelling first and that costs money. The finish does not tolerate acids, abrasives, dyes or steam cleaners: these attack the sealer. Scratches remain possible, especially under point loads; resistance depends on product, texture and sheen. Differences in texture and gloss come with the material, and damage can be touched up locally but that patch stays visible, which is why we prefer to finish a repair per surface or wall. Because the surface has relief, professional cleaning may be needed over time. The Forcrete system we apply also requires product knowledge and precise handling of each layer. We would rather tell you this beforehand than afterwards.
22. Can I apply microcement myself?
The Forcrete system we use is intended for application by trained installers. The complete build-up includes substrate and residual-moisture assessment, preparation, reinforcement mesh and multiple layers applied within the specified working times. We therefore offer this system as a professional installation rather than a DIY kit. Supply terms and application instructions can differ for other microcement products; check these with the relevant manufacturer. Learn more: Read about our certified specialist.
23. How long does microcement need to cure before I can use it?
Our terms distinguish three stages after completion: at least 48 hours before light use, 7 days before water exposure and 28 days before full use. No standing water is allowed on the floor during the first 4 weeks. This is not automatic clearance to shower after a week: the waiting period also depends on the sealer used and site conditions. Follow the product-specific maintenance protocol provided at handover. Ask us to confirm the waiting period for your finish before water exposure; a longer product-specific waiting period takes precedence. Learn more: Read the warranty and usage terms.
24. Is VAT included in the price?
No. Every amount we quote, on the pricing page and in the quotation, excludes VAT. Your quotation states the VAT rate that applies to your project, with the total including VAT below it, so you know exactly what you pay. For homes older than two years the reduced rate of 9 percent may apply to the labour component. We calculate that for you with the quotation. Learn more: View all rates and worked examples.
25. Why do you apply a minimum project fee of 3,000 euro?
Because a small room costs us almost as many days as a large one. A 4 m2 toilet needs the same machines, the same multiple layers and the same curing time between coats as a 15 m2 bathroom. Only the trowelling is quicker. We would rather charge an honest minimum than cut corners on a small job or turn it down altogether. Have two small rooms? Do them together and you pay the minimum once instead of twice. Learn more: View all rates and worked examples.
26. Is microcement more expensive than tiles?
Compare the complete quotation for your situation, not only the price per square metre. Microcement over suitable, firmly fixed tiles can reduce demolition, but repairs, roughening and levelling may still be needed. Total build-up height depends on that preparation and the selected system. Preparation and scheduling also vary between tiling projects. For microcement, allow for curing after the installation work and have the first-use timing confirmed for your finish. Our pricing page shows the rates and two worked examples with separate line items. Learn more: View all rates and worked examples.
27. Can microcement go over a cast floor or anhydrite screed?
It can, provided the existing floor suits the selected system. We assess adhesion, stability and residual moisture before application. Anhydrite is different from a cement-based screed: the permissible moisture value depends on the material, measurement method and product specification. A general moisture limit or an epoxy primer therefore does not automatically make a floor ready for coating. Anhydrite also needs appropriate preparation, including removal of a weak surface layer where present. For an existing epoxy or PU cast floor, we check adhesion and any movement. Required preparation and measurement criteria are confirmed for each project. Learn more: View the interactive floor build-up.
28. Do I get a warranty on microcement?
Yes. Floors carry a three-year warranty including liquid-tightness, starting at full completion. The conditions are that you follow the maintenance protocol you receive at handover, and that sanitary skirting and sealant are fitted in wet rooms. Outside the warranty fall cracking caused by structural movement or subsidence of the building, wear from normal use, moisture problems in a substrate we did not lay, and damage from acids, abrasives, dyes or steam cleaners. The full text is in our terms and conditions. Learn more: Read the warranty and usage terms.
29. What do I need to prepare before you arrive?
The room has to be empty, clean, safe and free of draughts, with adequate lighting. Empty means genuinely empty: furniture out, and in a bathroom the sanitary ware disconnected or removed as far as needed. We discuss that beforehand so you know what you arrange and what we do. Any change to colour or planning should reach us at least three weeks before the start date. Beyond that we provide the dust screens and protect the rest of the home. Learn more: Discuss your project.
30. Will the colour differ from the sample?
A colour sample is an indication, not an exact reproduction. Microcement is applied by hand using natural raw materials, so every floor is unique. Small colour deviations and differences in texture and gloss come with the product. Two surfaces or two rooms can look slightly different, particularly with a concrete look that is mixed on site. The light in your room counts too: the same shade looks different in a north-facing room than in a showroom. That is why we lay samples out in the room itself before you choose. Learn more: Read the guide to colour and texture.
Questions from international clients
Renovating a Dutch home as an expat raises a few questions that Dutch clients rarely ask: language, landlords, the owners' association. These are the answers we give most often.
31. Do you work in English?
Yes. The site visit, the quote, the planning, the handover and the maintenance instructions can all be in English, and so can every conversation on site. The quote states in plain English what is included, so you can forward it to a landlord, an owners' association or an insurer. Learn more: Read about our certified specialist.
32. Can I have microcement applied in a rented apartment?
Discuss the proposed work with your landlord and obtain written permission before proceeding. Microcement is a lasting finish, so agree who pays and what must happen at the end of the lease. Existing tiles or flooring can sometimes remain, but their condition and the necessary preparation must be assessed first. We can provide a technical specification for the landlord to review. Learn more: Discuss your project.
33. Does my VvE (owners' association) need to approve a microcement bathroom?
Check the deed of division, house rules and applicable VvE decisions before arranging the work. Requirements depend on the building and the scope, especially where shared structures, drainage or acoustic requirements are involved. Ask the board which approval and documentation are needed, and share the proposed build-up, waterproofing details and schedule. A short specification does not automatically satisfy every association's requirements. Learn more: Discuss your project.
34. What should I send to get a quote?
Send a few photos of the room, rough dimensions in metres and the city. Include the surfaces you want finished and any known damage. We discuss what is possible and assess the preparation before providing a project quotation. Floor rates start at 140 euro per square metre; walls in wet rooms start at 180 euro per square metre. These rates exclude VAT and include material and application; preparation is charged separately. The minimum project fee is 3,000 euro excluding VAT. Our pricing page explains the full rates and worked examples. Learn more: View all rates and worked examples, Discuss your project.
35. Do you only work in Rotterdam, or across the Netherlands?
Coated is based in Schiedam and discusses projects throughout the Netherlands. Share the actual address, existing surfaces and scope so access, preparation and availability can be assessed. Application dates and permitted first use are confirmed for the selected system; no universal completion or curing time is promised. The service-area hub links our city and municipality guides. For an address not listed, send the details through the contact page. Learn more: View our service area, Discuss your project.