Microcement vs Painted Concrete
Concrete paint is cheap and temporary. Microcement is permanent. Here is why one lasts decades and the other does not.
Microcement Wins On...
- Lifespan: 20+ years
- Waterproof when sealed
- Premium appearance
- Suitable for bathrooms
- Structural overlay, not just paint
Painted Concrete Wins On...
- Very low upfront cost
- DIY-friendly
- Quick application
- OK for garages and sheds
- No professional needed
Full Comparison
| Criteria | Microcement | Painted Concrete |
|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 20-25+ years | 2-5 years before repainting |
| Waterproof | Yes — when sealed | No |
| Suitable for bathrooms | Yes | No |
| Appearance quality | Premium, trowelled, natural | Flat, paint-like |
| Cost | €80 – €140/m2 installed | €5 – €20/m2 materials |
| DIY-friendly | No — trained applicator | Yes |
| Peeling / flaking risk | None when correctly applied | High in traffic areas |
| Total 20-year cost | One investment | Multiple repaint cycles |
Comparison FAQs
See also: Microcement floors | Polished concrete Ireland
Replace Concrete Paint with Microcement
Contact Cementec Ireland to discuss a permanent, professional floor finish for your project.
Based in Kinsale, Co. Cork · Serving all of Ireland