X-Bond Microcement Overlay for Concrete Resurfacing
If you need to replace old concrete, applying a new microcement overlay over the top is a great solution to avoiding the cost, mess and time associated with the demolition of an old slab.
Microcement is a very thin cement-based coating mixed with polymer bonding agents that will adhere to almost any existing hard substrate on floors, walls, ceilings, and more. This ensures a flawless new finish job that maintains exceptional quality in the future. You can read more about it in our microcement guide.
Our X-Bond Microcement product has been used to resurface concrete in hundreds of projects worldwide, from homes to commercial buildings and retail stores.
This article outlines all the benefits of concrete resurfacing with microcement. Ultimately, microcement will achieve a similar look to concrete with the following advantages:
Easier installation
Greater durability compared to other overlays
Wider range of applications
More versatile design options
Our Guide to Concrete Resurfacing with Microcement
What is Concrete Resurfacing?
Concrete resurfacing is the process of restoring and upgrading existing concrete surfaces without removing or replacing the original slab. Using advanced overlay systems such as microcement, resurfacing creates a seamless, durable finish over worn, cracked, or outdated concrete.
Unlike full concrete replacement, concrete resurfacing with microcement is faster, more cost-effective, and highly versatile — suitable for floors, walls, patios, and wet areas. It delivers a modern, architectural finish while extending the life of your existing surface.
Expand the full article: What is Concrete Resurfacing?
Benefits of Microcement for Concrete Resurfacing
Easier Installation Process
Microcement is hand-applied with a trowel, straight over the top of the old concrete (and other materials like tiles). Some additional prep work to the existing concrete may be required but overall it’s a much more streamlined process than demolition, and involves less time and mess. Microcement makes renovations easy by giving you the freedom to remodel your space without removing the old materials first. One of the best things about microcement is that this quick, hassle-free application process won’t compromise a beautiful finish that stands the test of time.
Unmatched Durability
Our product X-Bond Microcement is more durable than other overlay systems because it contains added polymer. This ensures stronger adhesion to substrates and also gives the surface more flexibility, reducing the risk of cracks. In 25 years of supplying X-Bond in Australia, we’ve never had a delamination issue.
When it comes to strength, X-Bond’s full installation system process involves an extra step of preparation to stabilise the damaged concrete for added security before resurfacing. Our Liquid Membrane, a two-in-one wateproofing and anti-fracture membrane, will bridge any cracks to prepare a strong base for the microcement overlay.
Diverse Applications
Unlike other overlay systems such as epoxy, X-Bond is a versatile product that can be used both internally and externally, whereas most other concrete resurfacing products can only be used for one or the other.
Additionally, our expert installers trowel X-Bond Microcement over your existing concrete at approximately 3mm thick. The minimal depth means there’s a wider range of applications beyond just flooring or walls. Some of the more intricate resurfacing jobs from our installers include concrete staircases, joinery, and pool copings.
When installed with our waterproofing membrane mentioned above, microcement is also suitable for concrete resurfacing in wet areas, including garden pathways and facades without any rain cover.
X-Bond can also be installed over underfloor heating, which is the most common heating system used for concrete flooring. Read more about the benefits of microcement flooring.
Versatile Design Possibilities
X-Bond was originally developed as a concrete alternative, so the final product provides you with a very similar look. Better yet, you don’t have to worry about any extra height or weight on top of your old surface due to its minimal thickness discussed above, so it’s the most structurally seamless option for replacing concrete.
To give you plenty of design options, there are various finishes in the X-Bond range that are suitable for concrete resurfacing. X-Bond is also available in a wide range of standard colours, with the ability to mix custom shades.
FAQ: Concrete Resurfacing with Microcement
If you're considering concrete resurfacing with microcement, you might have questions like:
How long does concrete resurfacing with microcement last?
Can microcement be applied over damaged or cracked concrete?
Is microcement suitable for wet areas?
Find the answers in our Concrete Resurfacing FAQs
Microcement vs. Concrete
If you’re deciding whether to use microcement or re-lay a new concrete slab, the key difference lies in application and performance. Traditional concrete requires thick pours and significant structural preparation, while microcement is a thin, bonded overlay system that can be applied directly over existing surfaces.
Microcement also offers a lighter weight, more versatile applications, and greater design flexibility. It is ideal for renovation projects where removing concrete isn’t practical.
Expand the full article: The Differences Between Microcement and Polished Concrete
