The Pros and Cons of Microcement Bathrooms

Microcement is a popular surface material in modern residential spaces. As Melbourne’s go-to installers, our most common application by far is bathrooms. Clients are specifying microcement in their bathrooms for many reasons, from it’s seamless finish to the ease of maintenance.

If you’re wondering whether it lives up to the hype in bathrooms, this balanced look at the pros and cons of microcement in bathrooms might help — especially as there are some common misconceptions.

Pros of Microcement in Bathrooms

1. Seamless Application

One of the main reasons X-Bond Microcement is chosen for bathrooms is the sleek, continuous surface it creates — forming a grout-free finish across bathroom floors, walls, and showers. This not only results in a beautiful minimalist look, but is also more resistant to mould or grime than tiles. This makes cleaning your bathroom easier than ever.

2. Highly Customisable

Microcement offers flexibility in design that’s difficult to achieve with traditional materials. In the X-Bond range, for example, you can choose from various colours and textures to suit your style. Whether you chose microcement for its ability to mimic the texture and tone of concrete, or are looking for a more unique finish to replace those old tiles, microcement is the ultimate balance of high-end aesthetics and performance.

3. Durable and Resistant

Despite its thin application, microcement is impressively durable. As long as it’s applied correctly and sealed properly by an experienced installer, it will withstand all the daily demands of a bathroom environment — from moisture to foot traffic. It’s able to be fully waterproofed and is also heat-resistant, making it suitable for underfloor heating installations, steam rooms and saunas.

Our microcement product of choice, X-Bond, is also incredibly flexible — meaning it won’t crack as your building naturally moves and settles. Best of all, in almost 30 years as installers, we’ve never had complaints of de-lamination with X-Bond. So safe to say your microcement bathroom will last a lifetime (as long as you choose a trusted, reliable microcement product).

4. Easy Maintenance

A microcement bathroom is surprisingly low maintenance. As mentioned, the smooth grout-free finish reduces the buildup of dirt, mould, and mildew, meaning fewer deep cleans and less scrubbing in tight spaces. Just a quick wipe with a mild cleaner and soft cloth is enough to keep it looking pristine. This ease of maintenance is a huge advantage, especially in a busy household. Like any shower surface, it’s best to wipe off the residue from products like fake tan and purple shampoo to avoid letting them sit for too long.

5. Slip Resistance

If you’re concerned about slip resistance, you’ll be pleased to know that most microcement products meets all the slip-resistance requirements for bathrooms and other wet areas (e.g. pools and public outdoor pathways). This makes it a safe choice for bathroom floors and shower areas. If you’re in Australia, we recommend X-Bond as it has a very high slip rating. If choosing a different product, always check slip resistance with the supplier first.

5. Remodel Without Removal

If you’re renovating old bathroom tiles, perhaps the best advantage of all is that microcement can be installed directly on top of them — yes, even if those tiles are leaky! In particular, X-Bond is designed to adhere to almost any hard substrate (concrete, MDF, plaster, metal…) with added latex polymers in the formula for stronger bonds than other products.

To install X-Bond over an existing tiled shower, wall, or floor, our applicators will prepare the area with Liquid Membrane, an advanced waterproofing and anti-fracture barrier to ensure your new surface stays watertight. This will also fix any leaks and stabilise damage in the original substrate.

Cons of Microcement in Bathrooms (And Why They’re Actually Not That Bad!)

1. Potential for Cracks (But Rarely an Issue When Done Right)

One of the most common concerns with microcement is the potential for cracks over time, especially in high-moisture environments like bathrooms. While this may sound concerning, it’s more about how the material is applied than the material itself. When installed correctly by an experienced professional, cracking is minimal if not entirely avoided.

Correct installation calls for properly prepared substrates, effective waterproofing, fixing any damage in the substrate, and expertly applied layers at a level thickness. And, as mentioned previously, X-Bond is formulated with extra flex and preceded with an anti-fracture membrane to avoid cracking with building settlement.

2. Feels Cold Underfoot (But Works Perfectly with Underfloor Heating)

Microcement, like concrete or tile, can feel cold underfoot. However, it’s perfectly suitable for underfloor heating, a common feature in modern bathrooms. Adding this option allows you to enjoy the aesthetic appeal of microcement without sacrificing warmth, creating a cozy spa-like atmosphere. For bathrooms without underfloor heating, you can always add bath mats to balance the temperature (as is common for practically every other surface).

3. Requires Sealing (But Adds Extra Protection)

Another perceived drawback is that microcement requires sealing to protect it from moisture and staining. However, sealing is actually a benefit rather than a burden, as it increases the lifespan and resilience of the surface. Once properly sealed, microcement becomes waterproof and resistant to everyday spills, oils, and soaps, all common in bathrooms. Additionally, modern sealants are designed to be highly effective and long-lasting, meaning you don’t need to reseal frequently — once every few years is usually sufficient.

4. Initial Cost (But Offers Long-Term Value)

While microcement installation can be more expensive initially than traditional tiles (unless choosing a high-end tile option), the overall value it provides is worth considering. The durability and ease of maintenance reduce the need for costly repairs or frequent cleaning. Plus, the timeless aesthetic of microcement often means it doesn’t go out of style, offering a versatile look that adapts well to various design changes over the years. This long-term investment is particularly appealing for homeowners who value quality and design that lasts.

As you can install microcement over old surfaces, this will also save money (and time) where renovations are concerned, bypassing the need for demolition.

5. Specialised Installation (But Worth It for the Results)

Microcement is a specialised material that can differ to other renders. As such, it requires skilled application by someone who’s worked with the product before.

While this might seem like a limitation, it’s actually an advantage. A professional application guarantees a flawless finish, as microcement is notoriously difficult for DIYers to apply perfectly. Hiring a specialist ensures durability and helps you avoid issues like cracking, peeling, or an uneven surface, giving you peace of mind and results that will last.

That being said, there are some microcement products sold for DIY to the general public. However, worldwide X-Bond is only installed by trained installers to ensure a high-end finish.

Final Thoughts: Is Microcement Right for Your Bathroom?

Microcement bathrooms offer a unique blend of style, durability, and functionality. While there are some initial considerations, like cracks and sealing, these “cons” often add to the long-term benefits. From a design perspective, it’s a standout choice for those who appreciate minimalism and easy maintenance. And with the added bonus of customisation, microcement bathrooms truly offer the best of both worlds — a beautiful, resilient finish that’s easier to live with than you might think.

Whether you’re building a new bathroom or updating an existing one, microcement might just be the modern touch that elevates your space. With the right installation and care, it’s a choice that’s as practical as it is beautiful.