What We’ve Learned After Thousands of Microcement Projects

After supplying microcement for thousands of projects over the past 25 years — ranging from compact residential renovations to large-scale commercial builds — we’ve seen just about everything. Whether it’s perfecting the installation system for high-traffic flooring or achieving a waterproof finish in a minimalist bathroom, there’s a lot that goes into making microcement work.

If you’re just learning about microcement now, take a read through some of the most important things we’ve learned as Australia’s original microcement experts — the big wins, the inaccurate myths, and the nuanced insights only experience can teach.

1. Substrate Prep Is Everything

We say it all the time: microcement is only as good as what’s underneath it. One of the most common issues we see in DIY jobs is poor substrate preparation.

Microcement needs a stable, clean, and level surface that’s prepared according to the material’s characteristics. Whether it’s concrete, tiles, screed, or plasterboard, you have to understand movement, moisture levels, and compatibility. Cutting corners here leads to failure like cracking or poor adhesion.

Pro tip: If there’s movement in the substrate, plan for it in your system. Mesh reinforcement, anti-fracture membranes, and a flexible microcement (like X-Bond) can make all the difference.

2. Not All Microcement Systems Are Created Equal

Since we brought X-Bond to Australia in 1999, new formulations have entered the market. This includes the microcement itself, but also compatible sealers — and the quality varies massively. A cheap product might look good on day one, but show wear within months. Some struggle with UV exposure, others are too brittle for commercial use, or companies who market DIY solutions might not provide comprehensive support to ensure correct installation.

That’s why product selection matters just as much as application. Durability, flexibility, texture options, and sealer performance should all be considered upfront.

For commercial fit-outs or wet areas, we always recommend a liquid-applied waterproof membrane underneath and a high-performance sealer.

3. View Large Samples In Real Life Before Specifying

Clients love the look of microcement because it’s tonal, seamless, and customisable; but some people might not realise that there can be differences in the appearance of a finish depending on its environment.

Lighting conditions, screens, and photo editing mean that one project is not always an accurate indication of how the product will appear in another. This is why we’ve learned to always walk clients through samples in **person, ideally in one of our showrooms, or to send samples for them to view in the area of application.

Another note on appearance; given that microcement is hand-applied, shifts in texture and shade are normal. Trowel marks are a natural, inherent quality of microcement — so if you want a flat, uniform finish with no variation, microcement might not be the right surface for you.

4. Bathrooms Are One of the Most Rewarding Yet Challenging Spaces

Microcement bathrooms are in high demand, and for good reason. They feel luxurious, they’re easy to clean, and they allow you to create an architectural look. But they’re also unforgiving when not done right.

Drainage, primary waterproofing, wall-floor junctions, and sealing are all critical. After decades of bathroom installs with X-Bond, we’ve built a waterproofing protocol that gives peace of mind.

5. Installers Need to Be Trained Properly

We provide training to surfacing professionals looking to expand their product range; but we also receive enquiries from home owners who want to purchase materials from us for their DIY renovations.

The thing is, we’ve seen how projects can fall apart when the application is handed off to someone without proper training — and that’s why we don’t supply X-Bond for DIY installations.

Microcement isn't paint and it's not plaster. It's a specialist product that demands skill and substrate preparation as mentioned. We’ve learned to invest heavily in training, both for our own installation team and our network of installers.

If you’re a designer or home owner, we can connect you with a trained applicator in your area who we trust to execute a flawless X-Bond application.

Every year we supply X-Bond for countless microcement projects (seriously, we’ve lost count!) and we can confidently say this: microcement is one of the best materials to work with — but only when it’s done right. It's a blend of art and technique, as well as quality product selection.

Thinking about using microcement in your next project? We’re always happy to share what we know. Get in touch for product advice, samples, or to request a trained installer in your area.