Can You DIY Microcement Floors?
Yes — you can DIY microcement floors, and many people do so successfully. However, microcement flooring isn’t a fast or forgiving project. It rewards patience, preparation, and following the system properly, rather than speed or brute force.
If you’re a confident DIYer who’s happy to take your time and work methodically, microcement flooring can be very achievable.
Is microcement flooring DIY-friendly?
Microcement isn’t physically difficult to apply, but it is technique-sensitive. The most important factors for success are:
- Creating a flat, stable substrate
- Using reinforcement mesh where required
- Applying thin, controlled coats (never thick)
- Respecting drying and curing times
- Applying the protective sealers correctly
Most DIY problems happen when people rush stages or try to “make up time” by applying microcement too thickly.
Who DIY microcement floors are well suited to
- Confident DIYers used to multi-stage projects
- People happy to read instructions and follow a system
- Projects without a hard deadline
- Renovations where low build-up thickness matters
Who should think carefully before DIYing
- If you want a guaranteed flawless, factory-perfect finish
- If you dislike preparation work
- If the existing floor moves, flexes, or is in poor condition
- If you’re working to a tight deadline
What preparation matters most for DIY success?
Preparation is the single biggest factor in whether a DIY microcement floor succeeds or fails. Before any microcement is applied, the base must be:
- Flat and level
- Structurally stable (no movement or flex)
- Clean and correctly primed
In some cases, a self-levelling compound with reinforcement mesh is used to create a suitable base. This layer sits beneath the microcement and is there to manage minor movement and provide a uniform surface.
Why thin coats matter
The microcement finish itself is typically around 1–2mm thick in total, built up over multiple very thin coats. Applying microcement too thickly increases internal stress as it cures and significantly raises the risk of cracking or poor adhesion.
Thin, controlled coats are one of the most important rules in successful DIY microcement flooring.
How long does DIY microcement flooring take?
DIY microcement flooring is not a one-day job. Because the system is layered, you’ll typically work across multiple days to allow for drying, sanding, and sealing stages.
Exact timings depend on temperature, humidity, and the system used, but rushing cure times is one of the most common causes of long-term issues.
Common DIY mistakes to avoid
- Skipping or rushing preparation
- Ignoring movement in the substrate
- Applying coats too thickly
- Not allowing adequate drying time
- Under-applying or rushing the sealing stage
DIY microcement flooring FAQs
Is microcement flooring suitable for beginners?
It can be, provided you’re patient and follow the system carefully. It’s less about strength and more about preparation, timing, and technique.
Is microcement easy to apply?
It’s not physically hard, but it is technique-sensitive. Thin coats, correct prep, and respecting curing times are critical.
How long does DIY microcement flooring take?
Most DIY microcement floors take several days from start to finish due to layering, drying, and sealing stages.
What’s the hardest part of DIY microcement flooring?
Preparation. A flat, stable substrate is essential, and most DIY failures can be traced back to movement or poor prep beneath the finish.
Can I DIY microcement over tiles or wooden floors?
Sometimes, but the existing floor must be stable. Tiles may need levelling, and wooden floors often need reinforcement or rebuilding to reduce movement.
