If you're thinking about upgrading your bathroom, microcement is definitely a material worth considering. It combines modern aesthetics with durability and functionality in one seamless package, making it a top choice for modern bathroom designs. Best of all, it provides an innovative alternative to demolishing your old bathroom tiles as it can be applied over almost any surface.

Thanks to its minimal maintenance requirements, easy waterproofing, and customisable design options; microcement is a go-to solution that works for a variety of bathroom surfaces from floors and walls to sink basins and showers. It’s perfect for bathrooms of any shape or size.

Here are answers to some of the most common questions people ask about microcement bathrooms.

Where can you apply microcement in the bathroom?

One of the key advantages of microcement is its versatility. It can be applied to almost any surface, including; floors, walls, ceiling, and joinery such as countertops or cupboard doors. This means you can create a unified look throughout your entire bathroom, with no need for multiple materials.

Is microcement waterproof?

While some microcement products can’t be waterproofed, others like X-Bond are suitable for all wet applications including inside showers, bathtubs, and sinks.

Preparation includes applying a liquid waterproofing membrane to create a seamless waterproof barrier. Then, the X-Bond is hand-trowelled in two layers with no seams to eliminate water seepage. Finally, it’s sealed to create a fully impermeable surface.

Moreover, the sealer protects your X-Bond from mould, mildew, and discolouration. If you're looking for a material that will withstand a wet environment with a beautiful contemporary aesthetic, products like X-Bond Microcement are the perfect choice.

Does microcement need grouting?

Microcement is installed by hand as a continuous layer, so there’s no grout required. This seamless finish has become synonymous with modern, minimalist design. Plus, grout lines make cleaning a time-consuming task. The smooth grout-free surface of microcement has fewer places for grime and dirt to hide.

How do you clean microcement in the bathroom?

When it comes to bathrooms, easy maintenance is a huge selling point — and microcement excels in this area. A quick wipe down with a soft cloth, water, and some mild detergent is usually all it takes to keep your surfaces looking as good as new. This makes it ideal for homeowners who want a functional space without the hassle of constant cleaning.

Does microcement crack, wear, or scratch?

Durability is another major selling point for microcement, making it an excellent investment for high-traffic areas like bathrooms. It’s highly resistant to wear and tear, you don’t have to worry about chips that often occur with ceramic tiles or stone, and its formula is designed to withstand building settlement without cracking. This is provided it’s applied correctly, though, so it’s best to engage a professional microcement installer.

Microcement is also highly resistant to heat, so it’s perfect for bathrooms where temperature fluctuations are common, such as around showers, tubs, or sinks — and even on top of underfloor heating. Whether it’s from steam or the occasional drop of a heavy object, microcement can take it all in stride without cracking, fading, or showing signs of damage.

Can microcement be installed over tiles?

Yes, microcement can be installed over tiles (and almost any other hard material), making it an excellent option for renovations where removing existing tile is time-consuming and costly. Its unique properties allow it to bond effectively to a variety of surfaces, including ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles.

Before applying microcement, the tiles must be properly prepared to ensure a smooth and stable finish. This preparation typically involves cleaning the surface thoroughly, waterproofing, filling in the grout lines to level the surface, and applying a primer to promote adhesion. Once these steps are completed, the microcement is applied in multiple thin layers, completely transforming the look of the tiled area.

Installing microcement over tiles has several advantages. It eliminates the need for demolition, which reduces mess, waste, and labor costs. The thinness of microcement — typically just a few millimetres — means it won’t add significant height to the surface, making it suitable for spaces where maintaining existing thresholds or fittings is important.

Can you choose different colours of microcement?

Microcement can be formulated in a range of colours, from classic grey to warm browns and event a vibrant custom shade. This means you needn’t worry about clashing materials. Whether you’re embracing a neutral look or aiming to make a bold statement, microcement can be customized to fit your vision.

Some installers can be skilled in creating a variety of different textures, too. At Alternative Surfaces, we installed X-Bond in four texture finishes: Micro, Blade, Mineral, and Natural Concrete. Micro is our most popular one, the most similar to concrete. Mineral is applied with a spray gun for a rocky stucco-like wall finish, while Blade has more pronounced texture for enhanced slip resistance.

So there you have it, everything you need to know about microcement bathrooms — from waterproofing to maintenance and design options. If you’re looking for a bathroom surface built to last in Melbourne, and want to learn more about pricing, get in touch today for a free quote.