Transforming ordinary surfaces into extraordinary masterpieces is what we do best at Craftex. Our detailed microcement application process ensures each project meets the highest standards of durability, aesthetics, and functionality.
Proper preparation is crucial for achieving a flawless microcement finish. Contractors are guided to meticulously clean and repair surfaces, ensuring they are free from dust, grease, and imperfections. This foundational step guarantees superior adhesion and longevity. For floors, it is essential to ensure the substrate is stable, often by having boards installed over a plywood subfloor or concrete slabs. Thorough cleaning, repairing any imperfections, and leveling the surface are also critical to prevent future cracking. Walls require similar attention, with a focus on ensuring they are free from significant cracks or structural issues. Wet areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens, demand extra moisture-proofing to ensure long-term durability. Fiber mesh is used primarily for floors to provide additional strength and stability; it is only used on walls or staircases if they are highly unstable. Outdoor surfaces must be weather-resistant and free from significant damage, requiring proper drainage to prevent water accumulation. Countertops necessitate precise cleaning and repair to ensure a smooth, durable surface. Fireplaces need preparation to ensure the microcement can withstand high temperatures. General surfaces, such as furniture and millwork, must be cleaned appropriately to ensure microcement adhesion.
For more information on substrate preparation, view our guide here.
Priming is a critical step for enhancing the microcement’s grip on various surfaces, ensuring a durable finish. For floors, a bonding agent and fiber mesh are applied to create a robust base for microcement, ensuring it adheres perfectly and withstands daily wear and tear. Walls receive a primer layer to ensure the microcement adheres seamlessly, creating a flawless finish. Wet areas require a primer and fiber mesh to protect against moisture and enhance durability. Outdoor surfaces are primed with UV-resistant and weatherproof primers to ensure long-lasting adhesion. Countertops are primed to create a smooth, stable base for microcement application. Fireplaces receive a heat-resistant primer to ensure the microcement can withstand high temperatures. General surfaces are primed to ensure excellent adhesion and durability of the microcement finish.
The base coat, infused with microfibers, creates strength and stability essential for various applications. Floors receive two layers of base coat, forming a solid foundation that locks together, preventing expansion and contraction. Wet areas, such as showers and outdoor spaces, get an additional base coat layer for extra moisture resistance and durability. This ensures the microcement can withstand environmental elements and remain robust. Outdoor surfaces receive a base coat with weatherproof properties to enhance durability and resistance to the elements. For walls in dry spaces that are already level 4 drywalls, the base coat is not required unless there are imperfections that need smoothing. Countertops, fireplaces, and general surfaces, including furniture and millwork, are treated with a base coat only if necessary to ensure heat resistance, stability, or to address surface imperfections before applying the finishing layers.
The finishing layer of microcement itself provides the desired texture and color. We offer four textures of microcement, ranging from smooth to grainier finishes, each built for varying levels of durability and traffic. Floors can be customized to meet client preferences, offering a unique blend of aesthetic appeal and functionality. Wall finishes, whether smooth or textured, match any design scheme from modern to rustic. In wet areas, the microcement ensures waterproofing and enhances visual appeal. Outdoor surfaces benefit from the same range of textures, with the addition of weather-resistant and UV-protected sealers to ensure long-lasting beauty. Countertops are finished with smooth, durable microcement that provides a sleek, modern look and is easy to clean. Fireplaces receive microcement that is both heat-resistant and aesthetically pleasing. General surfaces, including furniture and millwork, are finished with customized microcement layers that provide durability and enhance aesthetic appeal, ensuring each piece is unique.
Smoothing involves light sanding to achieve a consistent finish. Floors are lightly sanded to create a smooth, even surface that’s ready for sealing. Walls are sanded to ensure a uniform finish, enhancing their appearance and making them ready for sealing. Wet areas undergo careful sanding to maintain a seamless, waterproof finish that’s both beautiful and functional. Outdoor surfaces are sanded to ensure a smooth finish that can withstand weather elements. Countertops are sanded to achieve a sleek, smooth surface that’s ready for sealing. Fireplaces are sanded to ensure a consistent finish that enhances the overall aesthetic. General surfaces are sanded to achieve a smooth and consistent finish, preparing them for sealing.
Sealing protects the microcement and ensures its longevity. Floors are sealed with a premium product that protects against stains, water, and wear, ensuring long-lasting beauty and durability. Walls receive a sealer that enhances durability and aesthetic appeal, protecting against daily wear and tear. Wet areas are sealed with a waterproof sealer to ensure protection against moisture and stains, maintaining their pristine condition. Outdoor surfaces are sealed with UV-resistant and waterproof sealers to protect against the elements, ensuring long-lasting beauty and durability. Countertops are sealed with a durable, food-safe sealer that protects against stains and wear. Fireplaces are sealed with a heat-resistant sealer to ensure longevity and aesthetic appeal, even under high temperatures. General surfaces are sealed with a durable sealer that enhances both durability and aesthetic appeal, ensuring each piece remains beautiful and functional.