If you want a bathroom with a clean, modern look without rows of grout lines, microcement is getting more attention in bathroom remodeling. It can be used on showers, walls, floors, niches and other surfaces where homeowners want something different from traditional tile.
Our team is currently researching and testing several microcement systems from different manufacturers. We're comparing how the products apply, how the finishes look and how they perform under typical remodeling conditions before deciding whether microcement is something we want to add to our future remodeling options.
What Is Microcement?
Microcement is a thin, cement-based decorative coating applied in several layers to create a smooth, continuous surface. Depending on the product and application technique, it can have a subtle concrete appearance or a more refined finish.
One of the main differences between microcement and tile is the number of visible joints. Instead of individual tiles separated by grout, microcement creates a more continuous surface.
Another feature that makes microcement interesting is the range of finishes available. Depending on the manufacturer and system, homeowners can choose from different colors, textures and levels of variation. Some systems can also be tinted or customized to achieve a particular look rather than being limited to a small selection of standard colors.
The final appearance can change depending on the application technique, number of coats and sealer, so viewing actual samples is important when choosing a finish.
Microcement bathroom wall colors and finishes
We're currently looking at systems from manufacturers such as Meoded and EPODEX, along with other products. Each manufacturer has its own primers, base coats, application requirements and sealers, so the complete system matters.
Can Microcement Be Used in a Shower?
Yes, but microcement should not be confused with a waterproofing system.
Microcement is the finished surface. A shower still needs a properly constructed waterproof assembly underneath it. The substrate also needs to meet the requirements of the particular microcement system being used.
Preparation is especially important in a shower. Substrate condition, reinforcement where required, application thickness, curing and sealing can all affect the finished surface.
A decorative coating cannot make up for problems with the construction or waterproofing underneath it.
Microcement vs. Traditional Tile
Microcement and tile give you two very different looks.
Tile offers a huge range of colors, patterns, shapes and textures. It is familiar, widely used and relatively straightforward to repair when an individual tile is damaged.
Microcement takes a different approach. The finished surface has fewer visible joints and can create a simple, contemporary appearance. The color and texture can also be adjusted depending on the product and application method.
Neither material is automatically right for every bathroom. The condition of the existing surfaces, the design, expected use and installation requirements all matter.
How Much Does a Microcement Bathroom Cost?
There isn't one price that applies to every microcement bathroom.
The cost can depend on the size of the area, existing substrate, amount of preparation required, number of coats, selected system and final finish.
A small shower with a suitable substrate will be a very different project from a complete bathroom where walls, floors, niches and other surfaces all require preparation and finishing.
For that reason, material cost alone isn't a good way to compare microcement with tile or other bathroom finishes.
Is Microcement Difficult to Install?
The finished product can look simple, but the installation is more involved than it may appear.
The surface underneath needs to be properly prepared, and application technique can affect the final texture, color and consistency. Small imperfections in the substrate can also become noticeable in the finished surface.
In a shower, the decorative finish must also be compatible with the waterproofing and substrate system underneath it.
We're testing the products ourselves so we can see how they actually handle installation, finishing and the different conditions that can come up during a remodeling project.
Is Microcement Right for Your Bathroom?
Microcement may appeal to homeowners who want:
- A clean, contemporary bathroom
- A concrete or plaster-inspired appearance
- Fewer visible grout lines
- Custom colors, textures and finishes
- An alternative to traditional tile
- A simple, minimalist design
Tile may still make more sense if you want highly detailed patterns, extensive color combinations or the ability to replace individual pieces relatively easily.
The best material depends on the specific bathroom and the result you're trying to achieve.
Pros and Cons of Microcement
Based on our experience with remodeling, construction and different building materials, there are some practical advantages and drawbacks worth considering.
Potential Advantages
- Fewer visible joints
- Modern, understated appearance
- Multiple colors, textures and customizable finishes
- Can be used on several surfaces when properly prepared
- Works well with contemporary bathroom designs
Potential Drawbacks
- Requires careful substrate preparation
- Application is more technique-sensitive than it may look
- Surface imperfections can affect the finished appearance
- Does not replace shower waterproofing
- Repairs may be more involved than replacing an individual tile
- Different manufacturers can have different installation requirements
These pros and cons are based on our experience with remodeling and building materials, along with our current research and testing. They are not a guarantee of how every microcement product will perform.
Our Take on Microcement
We're still evaluating where microcement makes the most sense in a bathroom remodel. Different products can behave differently, and the quality of the finished work depends heavily on preparation and application.
For Sacramento homeowners interested in modern bathroom materials, we're sharing what we learn as we evaluate this type of finish.
Have questions about microcement or other modern bathroom materials? Contact NorCal Premier Renovations to discuss your remodeling project.
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