Last updated: March 1, 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.
2. How is it different from a cast floor or beton ciré?
Microcement is thinner, lighter and more versatile than a cast floor or beton ciré. A cast floor is usually epoxy or polyurethane-based and poured in place. Beton ciré is a broader term for cement-based finishes, but is not always waterproof. The Forcrete system is waterproof throughout, scratch-resistant and suitable for wet areas such as showers and bathrooms. With a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, Forcrete microcement surpasses most common floor finishes.
3. Is microcement waterproof?
Yes, Forcrete microcement is 100% waterproof. The system is waterproof before any sealer is applied. Unlike conventional systems that rely solely on a topcoat, the Forcrete system is waterproof throughout. It is widely used in bathrooms, showers and wellness areas.
4. Can microcement be applied over existing tiles?
Yes, microcement over tiles works very well. A tiled floor is actually an excellent substrate, provided all tiles are firmly fixed. The tiles are first roughened with a grinding machine to remove the glaze layer. Without this step the system cannot bond properly. Next, an epoxy primer is applied that acts as a moisture barrier and fills the grout lines to create an even surface. A 160 g/m2 reinforcement mesh is then embedded in a scratch coat of two-component resin. This is followed by the High Traffic Base XT as the structural layer, and finally the finish in one of four textures: smooth, medium, coarse or base XT. Microcement over existing tiles saves demolition costs and hassle. The floor becomes seamless, sleek and finished entirely to specification.
5. Does microcement work with underfloor heating?
Yes, microcement works excellently with underfloor heating. All Forcrete floor systems are fully compatible with both electric and water-fed underfloor heating. The thin application makes microcement an effective heat conductor.
6. How do you maintain microcement?
Very simple: a damp cloth or pH-neutral cleaner is all you need. Forcrete microcement is scratch-resistant, liquid-resistant and hypoallergenic - it does not attract dust. The material is low-VOC and solvent-free. With normal use, it looks as good after ten years as the day it was finished.
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.
8. Can microcement be used outdoors?
Yes, microcement is suitable for outdoor applications such as terraces, outdoor kitchens and driveways. The most important requirement is thorough preparation of the substrate. The main risk with outdoor applications is capillary moisture: groundwater rising through the substrate that can damage the microcement from within. This is prevented by installing insulation beneath the concrete slab before it is poured. In addition, a stable, crack-free substrate and a high-quality sealer that protects against rain, frost and UV are essential. The result is a sleek, seamless finish that perfectly suits a modern outdoor space. Always have the substrate assessed by a specialist. Not every situation is suitable without additional measures.
9. Is microcement prone to cracking?
Microcement can crack, but this is almost always caused by incorrect build-up or poor preparation. With the right system, cracking is largely preventable. The subfloor is reinforced with a 160 g/m2 mesh that absorbs tension and minor movement. This mesh is embedded in a scratch coat: a two-component resin layer that creates a strong, flexible base. The microcement top layer itself is based on polyurethane resin, allowing the material to flex with small shifts in the substrate without cracking. Each layer serves a purpose. Together they form a system that absorbs stress and prevents cracking, both at installation and over the long term.
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 includes our full build-up: roughening, epoxy primer, reinforcement mesh, scratch coat and the finish of your choice. No surprises afterwards.
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 layer requires a minimum drying time of 12 hours. A bathroom or wet area typically takes one to two extra days due to the additional attention required for waterproofing and detailing around drains and connections. We always allow sufficient drying time. Rushing leads to a lesser result, and we don't do that.
12. How does drainage work in a microcement shower?
In a microcement shower, drainage is addressed during the preparation phase. The subfloor is laid at a gradient towards the drain so water flows naturally to the outlet. We prefer to work with a linear drain or invisible floor drain that integrates seamlessly into the microcement. The connection between drain and microcement is carefully finished with a flexible sealant that moves without cracking. The entire system is waterproof, so water does not penetrate the structure. A proper gradient and the right drain are essential. We always advise on this before starting work.
13. Is microcement slippery when wet?
No, microcement is not slippery when wet. Our microcement floors pass all slip tests and exceed the industry standard of 36 PTV wet. PTV stands for Pendulum Test Value, the measure used to rate the slip resistance of a floor. The higher the score, the safer the surface. In situations where extra slip resistance is needed, such as hospitality floors or outdoor applications, we add special additives or adjust the application technique. Microcement is also a safe choice for bathrooms and showers, provided it is correctly applied and sealed.
14. How long does a microcement floor last?
A properly applied microcement floor lasts for decades. Forcrete microcement is engineered for intensive use and retains its appearance with normal maintenance. The material is scratch-resistant, liquid-resistant and withstands daily wear, even in high-traffic spaces such as kitchens, hospitality venues and retail. Forcrete microcement scores a 7 on the Mohs scale, comparable to the hardness of quartz. This makes the surface exceptionally resistant to scratches and wear. Longevity depends on three factors: the quality of the substrate, the skill of the applicator and post-installation maintenance. With a pH-neutral cleaner and periodic treatment with the right maintenance wax, the surface stays looking new for years.
15. Do I need to remove skirting boards before microcement?
No, skirting boards do not need to be removed. If skirting boards are already in place, we carefully tape them off before starting. After application, we recommend re-caulking them for a clean finish. If new skirting boards will be installed after the renovation, we advise waiting until the microcement has fully cured. Skirting boards fitted afterwards align neatly with the new floor and give a much cleaner end result.