Sealed microcement bathroom with pristine waterproof finish

Microcement Sealing – Products, Process and Schedule

Sealing is the essential final step in every microcement installation. The complete guide to sealant types, application and resealing schedule.

Direct Answer

Sealing is an essential final step in every microcement installation. It provides waterproofing, stain resistance and durability. Without proper sealing, microcement will absorb liquids and stain. Always use the correct sealant for the application.

Why Sealing is Essential for Microcement

Microcement is a cementitious material — porous by nature. In its unsealed state, it will absorb water, oils, wine, coffee and any other liquid it comes into contact with, developing permanent staining that is very difficult to remove. The sealant layer applied over the finished microcement is what transforms it from a porous surface into a waterproof, stain-resistant, durable interior finish. Without the sealant, microcement is not a viable interior surface.

The sealant also protects the microcement from mechanical wear — foot traffic, chair and table legs, and the general abrasion of daily use. The microcement itself is durable, but unsealant it would wear and powder under foot traffic over time. The sealant provides a protective film that takes the wear and can be renewed periodically through resealing — a straightforward maintenance operation that extends the life of the installation significantly.

Choosing the Right Sealant

Water-based PU sealant is the most common choice for residential walls and dry areas. It has low odour, is easy to apply and clean up, and produces a durable, attractive finish. For residential floors — particularly in bathrooms and kitchens — a solvent-based PU provides higher abrasion resistance and a superior finish depth. For the most demanding wet environments and commercial floors, a two-component epoxy provides maximum waterproofing and chemical resistance, though it is less flexible than PU and requires precise mixing and application conditions.

Anti-Slip Additive

For any wet floor — showers, wet rooms, pool surrounds, changing rooms — an anti-slip additive must be incorporated in the sealant. This is not optional. It provides the grip necessary to prevent slipping on a wet surface and is required by safety and building regulations for commercial applications. Our certified applicators specify anti-slip treatment as standard for all wet floor applications.

Sealant Selection Guide

Water-Based PU

Residential walls and dry areas. Low odour. 2 coats minimum. Matt, satin or gloss finish options available.

Solvent-Based PU

Residential floors and wet areas. Higher durability. 3 coats for wet areas. Better wear resistance than water-based.

Two-Component Epoxy

Commercial floors and heavy-duty wet areas. Maximum durability and chemical resistance. 2-3 coats. Professional mixing required.

Anti-Slip Additive

Add to any sealant for wet floors. Essential in showers, wet rooms, pool surrounds and commercial wet areas.

UV-Stable Exterior

Exterior applications. UV-resistant formulation prevents yellowing and degradation from sunlight exposure.

Matt vs Gloss

Matt finish gives a contemporary natural look. Satin is the most popular residential choice. Gloss is bold and dramatic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seal Your Microcement Correctly

Contact Cementec Ireland for the right sealant specification for your application and certified applicator referrals.

Based in Kinsale, Co. Cork · Serving all of Ireland