Silk Plaster Microcement is a polymer-modified cementitious coating applied in ultra-thin layers (typically 2–4 mm total thickness). While contemporary systems commonly use quartz sands as the key filler, Silk Plaster Microcement is formulated with natural premium marble powder, quartz sand, water-borne cross-linking resins, pigments, and fine aggregates — creating a seamless, decorative finish suitable for floors, walls, countertops, and wet areas. Our microcement is sealed with our factory-made 2-component water-borne polyurethane-based varnish, TOP890. TOP890 has been tested for stain resistance against wine, coffee, and various common household substances at 30-minute, 60-minute, and 24-hour intervals. Note: Do not leave turmeric on the surface for longer than 60 minutes.

Microcement uses finer aggregates and is applied in thinner layers (under 1 mm per coat), producing a smoother finish. The microcement effect is achieved by applying one coat of SP Base Microcement followed by two coats of SP Finish Microcement. Microconcrete contains coarser particles and is applied slightly thicker, giving a more textured, industrial or natural look. With our system, you can apply 2–3 coats of SP Base Microcement and seal with the 2-K PU varnish to achieve this effect. Both are applied over existing substrates without demolition.

Silk Plaster Microcement bonds to most rigid, stable surfaces. Thanks to its versatile properties, the system satisfies a wide range of aesthetic and performance needs in living rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, restaurants, studios, offices, shops, showrooms, and wellness or spa areas — and can even be used to decorate furnishings. It is easy to install on-site and can be applied directly to concrete floors, old ceramic floors, and walls. Silk Plaster Microcement may be applied to all of the following surfaces after BaseQ primer (except tiles, which require AQUA OTEKS primer): * New and old plasters based on hydraulic binders * Concrete surfaces * Gypsum and gypsum board surfaces * Old paints and wall coatings (organic or mineral in nature) that are dry, compact, absorbent, and cohesive * Mineral conglomerates of various kinds, provided they are absorbent * Tiles (with AQUA OTEKS primer)

Silk Plaster Microcement bonds to most rigid, stable surfaces. Thanks to its versatile properties, the system satisfies a wide range of aesthetic and performance needs in living rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, restaurants, studios, offices, shops, showrooms, and wellness or spa areas — and can even be used to decorate furnishings. It is easy to install on-site and can be applied directly to concrete floors, old ceramic floors, and walls. Silk Plaster Microcement may be applied to all of the following surfaces after BaseQ primer (except tiles, which require AQUA OTEKS primer): * New and old plasters based on hydraulic binders * Concrete surfaces * Gypsum and gypsum board surfaces * Old paints and wall coatings (organic or mineral in nature) that are dry, compact, absorbent, and cohesive * Mineral conglomerates of various kinds, provided they are absorbent * Tiles (with AQUA OTEKS primer)

The Silk Plaster Microcement system cannot be used on the following substrates: * Horizontal and vertical substrates that do not ensure adequate adhesion, dimensional stability, or sufficient compression strength

* Traditional parquet floors

* Linoleum

* Glass and glass-cement surfaces

* Mosaic surfaces made of marble, granite, glass, or similar materials

* Tiled surfaces with joints wider than 4 mm

* Damp surfaces or those with rising damp

* Ceramic, resin, or similar sanitary ware

The Silk Plaster Microcement system cannot be used on the following substrates: * Horizontal and vertical substrates that do not ensure adequate adhesion, dimensional stability, or sufficient compression strength

* Traditional parquet floors

* Linoleum

* Glass and glass-cement surfaces

* Mosaic surfaces made of marble, granite, glass, or similar materials

* Tiled surfaces with joints wider than 4 mm

* Damp surfaces or those with rising damp

* Ceramic, resin, or similar sanitary ware

Yes — this is one of Silk Plaster Microcement's biggest advantages. As long as the tiles are well-bonded, stable, and the surface is properly prepared (cleaned, degreased, and primed), Silk Plaster Microcement can go directly over tiles without removal. Grout lines deeper than 2 mm should be levelled first. For tile applications, fill grout lines with an appropriate filler such as Ardex A46, Ardex F5, or a similar product from Mapei. Then apply the bonding SILK PLASTER OTEKS primer, followed by the Silk Plaster BaseQ primer, and then embed the mesh to enhance protection against structural movements. After that, follow the general microcement application instructions. You can find a full video how to install microcement here

Watch the full tutorial here.

A complete Silk Plaster Microcement system has a typical total thickness of 3–4 mm. This includes a BaseQ primer layer, a transparent thick fibreglass mesh embedded in an SP Microcement Base coat, one or two additional SP Microcement Base coats, one or two SP Microcement Finish coats, and 2-3 think layers of final 2-K sealer/varnish TOP890 A+B.

Silk Plaster Microcement itself is water-resistant but not inherently waterproof. When sealed with the appropriate polyurethane topcoat in 2–3 layers, it becomes fully waterproof and suitable for showers, bathrooms, and pool surrounds. In wet areas, a tanking membrane underneath is essential.

Absolutely. Wet areas and bathrooms are one of the most popular applications for microcement use. The key is proper waterproofing use a waterproof membrane beneath the Silk Plaster Microcement and seal the finished surface with two layers of the waterproof 2-K polyurethane topcoat TOP890 A+B. Joints and corners should be reinforced with waterproofing tape.

Yes. Silk Plaster Microcement works well on kitchen walls, floors, backsplashes, and countertops. For countertops, use a food-safe, high-performance polyurethane topcoat to resist heat, stains, and daily wear. Note: Hot pots should still be placed on trivets.

Yes. The Silk Plaster Microcement System is formulated for exterior use and performs well against UV exposure, frost, and thermal expansion. Our microcement includes anti-slip additives and is well suited for outdoor floors and pool decks.

When properly applied and sealed, Silk Plaster Microcement floors are highly durable and can handle heavy residential and moderate commercial foot traffic. They resist scratches, impacts, and abrasion comparably to polished concrete. Longevity depends on the quality of materials, application technique, and the sealer used. Note: Silk Plaster Microcement is not intended for industrial applications.

Microcement can develop hairline cracks if the substrate moves, if no mesh is embedded, if it is applied too thickly in a single coat, or if the substrate was not properly prepared. Using a fibreglass mesh in the SP Microcement Base coat, applying thin even layers, and ensuring the substrate is stable significantly reduces cracking risk. Building movements are unpredictable, which is why we insist on embedding mesh in every installation. Silk Plaster Microcement itself is a crack-resistant material — any cracking that occurs is typically the result of substrate movement or improper preparation, not the microcement itself.

Our 2-component matte polyurethane-sealed microcement surface is not slippery when wet, unlike polished concrete. For floors in bathrooms, kitchens, pool areas, or exteriors, no additional anti-slip treatment is needed beyond the standard Silk Plaster Microcement system.

Silk Plaster Microcement is not suitable for swimming pools. The combination of standing water and the chemicals used in pool maintenance is incompatible with water-borne polyurethane varnishes. For swimming pool applications, only approved solvent-based polyurethane varnishes should be used.

Silk Plaster Microcement is available in an extensive colour palette. We offer a full colour-match solution to reproduce all NCS, RAL, the Silk Plaster branded 1241 ColorWorld collection, and many other ranges including Benjamin Moore Classics, Little Greene, and Farrow & Ball shades. Custom colours can be mixed using pigment dosing systems and automated Silk Plaster tinting machines. Earth tones, greys, whites, and off-whites are the most popular choices, but bold and vibrant colours are also achievable.

Unlike many other brands and microcement systems, we use a sophisticated yet easy-to-use software solution that caters to all end-user, architect, and designer colour requirements. It enables reliable colour reproduction from NCS, RAL, and other fan decks with a Delta E below 2, ensuring that every colour is accurately and consistently matched across all orders.

Finishes range from ultra-smooth and polished to rough and textured, depending on the aggregate size, application technique, and sanding. Common finishes include natural matte, satin, silk, and high gloss. The trowelling technique and the number of coats also influence the final texture.

When our 2-K polyurethane sealer TOP890 is used, some minor yellowing can occur over time with prolonged UV exposure, especially in very light colours. This is because we use the highest-quality aliphatic polyurethane available — a grade that delivers the best wear resistance on the market, though it does come at a higher cost than alternatives. Hint: Yellowing in lighter tones is easily managed by adding a small amount of colourant into Component A during application. For exterior or sun-exposed surfaces, TOP890 is an excellent choice — simply add a touch of pigment to enhance UV resistance.

The substrate must be clean, dry, structurally sound, and free of dust, grease, and loose material. Cracks should be repaired, uneven areas levelled, and the surface primed with a bonding agent. On tiles, the surface should be sanded or abraded to improve adhesion. Use fillers such as Ardex A46, Ardex F5, or similar Mapei products to fill gaps. Always use thick transparent meshes to enhance elasticity against structural movement. Proper preparation is the single most important factor in a successful installation.

A fibreglass mesh is embedded in the first SP Microcement Base coat to reinforce the system, bridge minor substrate imperfections, and reduce the risk of cracking where the elasticity of the microcement alone may not be sufficient. Building movements are unpredictable, which is why we insist on using mesh in all situations and in all flooring applications. The fibreglass mesh distributes stress across the surface and is considered essential in professional-grade installations.

A typical room (20–30 m²) takes 6 to 7 calendar days. This includes substrate preparation (day 1), base coats with mesh (days 2–3), finish coats (days 3–4), and sealing (days 4–5). Drying time between coats is approximately 24 hours, depending on ambient conditions.

Light foot traffic is usually possible 48 hours after the final 2-K polyurethane TOP890 sealer coat. Light cleaning without water can be done within 2–3 days. Full mechanical and chemical resistance typically develops after 21 days. Heavy furniture should not be placed for at least 10 days, and the surface should not be exposed to water for 10 days after sealing.

While DIY kits exist, microcement application is a skilled trade. Achieving a smooth, even, crack-free finish requires experience with trowelling techniques, timing, and substrate preparation. For small accent walls or non-critical surfaces, a confident DIYer can achieve acceptable results. For floors — especially wet areas — or large surfaces, hiring an experienced applicator is strongly recommended. We have approved and trusted Silk Plaster Microcement specialists across Europe and worldwide. Please get in touch or visit the contacts section of our website to find a professional installer in your region.

Look for applicators who have been trained or certified by a reputable microcement manufacturer. Ask to see completed projects (in person if possible), request references, and confirm they carry liability insurance. The Silk Plaster factory maintains a directory of certified installers in the contacts section of our website.

Costs vary widely by region, complexity, and product quality. Professional installation (including materials) generally ranges from €85 to €240 per square metre, depending on surface condition, location, number of colours, and finish complexity. Vertical surfaces and intricate spaces tend to cost more. Smaller projects also carry a higher per-metre cost — it is much more economical to cover areas of 50–100 m² than 10 m², as the microcement specialist needs to arrange multiple site visits with specific timing.

Microcement is generally more affordable than natural stone or large-format porcelain with labour, and comparable to high-quality polished concrete. It is more expensive than standard tile or laminate. The ability to install over existing surfaces without demolition often makes it cost-competitive overall.

Daily cleaning requires only a damp mop or cloth with a pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid leaving capped shampoo bottles and cleaners standing on the microcement surface for extended periods (longer than one hour). Avoid abrasive cleaners, bleach, ammonia, or acidic products (vinegar, citrus-based cleaners) as these can damage the sealer. For floors, place felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches. A periodic maintenance coat of PU varnish (approximately every 3 years) helps preserve the finish.

In high-traffic areas like floors, the sealer should be refreshed every 2–3 years depending on wear. Walls and low-wear surfaces may go 10+ years without resealing. A maintenance wax can be applied annually to extend the sealer's life. Resealing involves cleaning the surface and applying a fresh coat — there is no need to redo the microcement itself.

Yes. Localised damage such as chips, deep scratches, or small cracks can be repaired by a skilled applicator who sands the area, applies a thin patch of colour-matched Silk Plaster Microcement, and reseals the surface. This is where the Silk Plaster system stands out — our precision colour-matching ensures an accurate tonal match. However, repaired areas may still show slight texture variation, so blending into the surrounding surface requires experience.

Yes. The existing surface can be lightly sanded and a new layer of microcement in a different colour applied on top, followed by resealing. This is one of the great advantages of the system — refinishing does not require demolition.

Silk Plaster Microcement is considered a more sustainable option than the majority of systems and products on the market. Most notably, our formulation contains no cement or Portland cement, and we do not use epoxy — eliminating a common allergy factor. Our microcement produces minimal waste (no demolition of existing surfaces) and uses thin layers of material. The formulation is low-VOC, A+ VOC compliant, and fully water-based. It also extends the useful life of existing substrates.

Yes, and it is an excellent pairing. Microcement's thin profile and direct bond to the substrate allow efficient heat transfer from underfloor heating systems. The heating system should be commissioned and cycled on and off gradually before application, and turned off 48 hours before and after installation. After application, allow a full 10 days for the system to dry and gain strength, then increase the temperature by 2°C every 2 days until the desired setting is reached.

Yes. Silk Plaster Microcement can coat sinks, bathtubs, shelving, tables, and custom furniture pieces. These applications require careful priming (especially on non-porous surfaces) and a durable sealer. The result is a monolithic, seamless look that matches walls and floors.

Silk Plaster Microcement has a natural, matte-to-satin mineral appearance with subtle texture and variation. Epoxy is a synthetic resin that produces a high-gloss, plastic-like finish. Silk Plaster Microcement breathes and allows vapour transmission, while epoxy creates a fully sealed barrier. Epoxy is more chemical-resistant but tends to yellow over time and is harder to repair. The choice depends on the desired aesthetic and functional requirements.

Look for manufacturers that provide a complete system (primer, base, finish, sealer), technical data sheets with tested performance values (adhesion, abrasion resistance, flexibility), training programmes for applicators, and a proven track record. Certifications, independent laboratory testing for VOCs, fire resistance, and slip resistance are reliable indicators of quality.

Watch this independent review from a professional microcement installation specialist based in Norway, covering the full pros and cons of the Silk Plaster Microcement system. Watch the video review here