The Complete Guide to Microcement in Bathrooms

Microcement in a bathroom removes grout lines entirely, which is why clients ask for it — and why it is unforgiving of shortcuts.

Everything begins with the substrate. Existing tile can stay if it is sound and fully bonded; hollow tiles must come out. Plywood decks need to be rigid enough that they do not flex underfoot, because microcement will telegraph any movement as a hairline crack.

Waterproofing is a separate system, applied before the finish, not by it. A liquid membrane goes over the whole wet zone with reinforcing tape at every internal corner and penetration. Microcement is water-resistant; the membrane behind it is what makes the room waterproof.

The build is typically 2 to 3mm across four coats, then two to three coats of a bathroom-grade sealer. Sealer choice determines maintenance: matte reads softer and hides water spotting, satin cleans more easily.

Realistic timeline for a full bathroom is four to seven working days including cure, and the room should not be used for another 48 hours after the final sealer coat. Rushing that window is the single most common cause of premature wear.