What Makes Microcement a Premium Surface Finish
There’s a reason microcement is increasingly specified in high-end architecture, from luxury residential projects to large-scale commercial builds. Its soft mineral texture and seamless continuity create beautiful spaces, and behind the aesthetic is a strength and durability that outperforms other renders.
But as microcement grows in popularity, so does the variation in quality. If you’ve begun researching microcement, you may have noticed a wide range of pricing across the market, as well as DIY options that don’t require the skill of professionals.
With all the options out there, it’s easy to wonder: What separates the best microcement from the rest? What should I look for in a supplier for a truly elevated, architectural result?
Like most materials, a flawless microcement finish is born from precision, quality, and craftsmanship. We treat X-Bond as a highly specialised, multi-component system. And after 25 years perfecting the craft, one thing is clear: exceptional results rarely come from ready-made formulas in a bucket, or from simply handing someone a trowel.
Keep reading to discover what separates a premium microcement finish like X-Bond from the rest.
Related reading:
Why Surfacing Professionals Choose Us As Their Microcement Supplier
1. Troweling Is A Craft
On a surface level (literally!) the troweling technique required to execute microcement application requires technical precision. Microcement is closer to architectural plasterwork than paint, so it’s more than your average DIY enthusiast might be able to master.
Premium microcement products usually come as a package deal with the most experienced surfacing professionals, who’ve honed the skills needed to achieve consistent trowel work across all applications, controlled texture, and balanced tonal variation.
As we’ll discuss further below, the labour involved is deeper than what’s on the surface, which brings us to…
2. Surface Preparation Is Everything — It’s Not Just a Superficial Coating
One of the biggest differences between a budget microcement job and a premium one is what happens before the finish is applied. Let’s go back a few steps…
Microcement is only as strong as the substrate beneath it, so substrate prep is crucial. Premium installers focus heavily on correct preparation, including:
substrate assessment
crack prevention systems
levelling and reinforcement
waterproofing membranes
correct priming and bonding layers
Skipping these steps can lead to failure like cracking, delamination, water ingress, or uneven texture. Preparation is often invisible, but it is where long-term performance is built.
If you’re interested in substrate discussion, you might like these articles:
Best Substrates for Microcement
3. Seamless Detailing Takes Time
One of microcement’s defining qualities is continuity.
A premium finish means clean junctions at walls and floors, seamless corners and niches, and refined edges around drains, tapware or cabinetry — flawless transitions with no weak points.
These details require precision and patience, particularly in bathrooms, kitchens and architectural feature zones. In high-end projects, microcement is not rushed. It is built carefully, layer by layer.
4. Premium Finishes Are Designed, Not Just Installed
A quality microcement finish is not one-size-fits-all.
Premium providers work closely with clients, architects and designers to achieve the right aesthetic, offering the option to:
customise colour tones
customise texture, from sleek stone-like softness to intense variation
matte vs satin finish levels
interior vs exterior specifications or non-slip additives
The result is a bespoke surface that belongs to the architecture and suits your individualised project needs. This is what you benefit from when engaging a company who has an entire team of experts who can workshop your design brief with you.
Read more: X-Bond Microcement Design Options: Colours & Textures
5. Durability and Longevity Come From Proper Sealing
Sealing is one of the most important stages in the entire process. A premium microcement finish includes high-performance sealing systems that protect against: water ingress, staining, wear in high-traffic zones, cleaning chemicals, and UV exposure (for exteriors).
Without professional sealing, microcement can become vulnerable, especially in high-traffic areas.
6. Experience Matters More Than Any Material
Microcement is unforgiving.
Small inconsistencies in application can show through the finished surface. That’s why experience is one of the most valuable parts of the investment.
A premium microcement supplier like Seamless Overlays brings:
proven process
skilled, trained tradespeople
quality control
project-specific expertise and troubleshooting
confidence in all applications
Read more: What We’ve Learned After Thousands of Microcement Projects
So… Why Does Premium Microcement Cost More per m2?
Because you’re not paying for a product. You’re paying for craftsmanship, preparation, performance, longevity, refined detailing and architectural-level execution. A premium microcement finish is an investment, not just in aesthetic but in quality that endures.
If you’re exploring microcement in Australia, we’d be happy to guide you through the X-Bond finishes, applications and what makes our overlays truly premium. Get in touch to request samples, discuss your project, or start the quoting process with our wide network of applicators.