Microcement is today's most sought-after solution for modern bathrooms — a seamless surface that works on walls, floors, and even inside the shower at the same time. This guide explains why microcement works in a bathroom, how to apply it correctly, and what you should know before you commission it for your own home or offer it to a client.
The practical information in this article is based on the technical data sheet and application manual for the epix+ microcement coating and is supplemented by hands-on experience from dozens of Czech bathroom projects.
Why choose microcement for a bathroom
A classic tiled bathroom has one fundamental drawback: grout lines. Grout absorbs water, traps dirt, yellows over time, and becomes a breeding ground for mould. Maintenance is an endless battle.
Microcement eliminates this problem entirely. The layer is homogeneous, uninterrupted by grout, and creates a continuous surface from floor to walls and into the shower. This brings three practical benefits:
- A visually clean space. A seamless surface visually enlarges the bathroom and connects all areas into a single whole.
- Easy maintenance. No grout means no place for mould and deposits. Routine cleaning is enough.
- A water-resistant and walkable surface. The epix+ system is certified for wet rooms and withstands the mechanical load of a bathroom floor.
From a technical perspective, microcement is a cementitious mineral coating applied in a thin layer (typically 2–3 mm for the whole system) directly onto the existing substrate. Combined with proper waterproofing and a final 2K sealer, it creates a fully functional surface even for walk-in showers without a tray.
Where microcement works in a bathroom
The epix+ microcement coating is certified for interior walls, floors, and wet rooms. In a bathroom, you can use it practically anywhere:
- Walls throughout the bathroom including around the basin, WC, and bath
- The floor including the transition into the shower area
- The shower — both walls and floor, including barrier-free solutions
- Bath surrounds and other built-in elements
- Bathroom furniture and worktops (vanity units, shelving)
The one place we do not recommend microcement is the inside of a bathtub or any area in direct contact with a large volume of standing water. The shower, however, works fine — the key is properly executed waterproofing beneath the system.
Waterproofing: the step everything depends on
This is the most important section of the article, so pay attention. Microcement is not itself a waterproofing layer. It is a decorative finish with high water resistance, but in wet rooms it must have a full waterproofing system beneath it.
In practice this means:
- Underneath the entire shower area (walls and floor) a liquid waterproofing membrane such as Mapei Mapelastic, Sopro DSF, Schönox, or Kerakoll Aquastop must be applied
- Corners, edges, and transitions must be sealed with waterproofing tapes (e.g. Mapei Mapeband)
- Drainage outlets need system-specific cuffs / penetrations
- The waterproofing must be completely dry before microcement application (typically 24 hours depending on temperature)
Without this step, you risk seepage into the structure, mould between coating and substrate, and in extreme cases damage to neighbouring flats. Microcement in a bathroom is always a system solution, never a standalone layer.
Suitable substrates: what microcement can go on
The epix+ microcement coating is compatible with a wide range of substrates, which is a major advantage in bathrooms. It can be applied to:
- Cement screeds and self-levelling compounds (typical for new floors)
- Anhydrite screeds
- Plasterboard — for bathrooms use moisture-resistant types (green or cement boards)
- Cement and gypsum plasters
- Reinforcing layers (adhesive + mesh) — typical during renovations over old tiles
Two substrate parameters are critical:
- Flatness: maximum deviation 2 mm over a 2-metre straightedge. If the substrate is more uneven, it must be levelled with a self-levelling compound or reinforcing layer.
- A dry, solid, clean surface free of dust, grease, adhesive residues, loose plaster, and old coatings.
Can microcement be applied over old tiles?
Yes, and in renovations this is the most common scenario. The procedure: clean and degrease the existing tiles, apply a reinforcing layer with mesh to level the grout joints, allow it to cure, and only then apply the microcement system. This avoids demolition and saves time and cost.
Complete build-up of the epix+ system in a bathroom
Microcement in a bathroom is a five-layer system over the waterproofing. Here is the full build-up:
| Layer | What is applied | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Waterproofing (separate from the epix+ system) | Substrate protection in wet conditions |
| 1 | MB Kontaktní adhesion promoter | Bond to substrate, evens out absorbency |
| 2 | epix+ coating — 1st layer (1–2 mm) | Base coat, levels the substrate |
| 3 | epix+ coating — 2nd layer | Final structure, sanded with P120 |
| 4 | Base glaze | Unifies tone, base colour layer |
| 5 | Final glaze | Decorative effect, accentuates the structure |
| 6 | Final 2K sealer | Water resistance, mechanical durability |
Total system thickness (excluding waterproofing) is 2–3 mm, significantly less than classic tiles with adhesive (8–12 mm). Microcement therefore does not significantly reduce the room and works even in low-ceilinged bathrooms.
Application procedure step by step
Here is the full workflow as the manufacturer recommends it. This section is primarily aimed at tradespeople and applicators.
1. Substrate preparation
The substrate must be solid, dry, clean, free of dust, grease, and adhesive residues. New substrates must be sufficiently cured — curing can be verified with a pH tester. Check flatness with a 2-metre straightedge, maximum deviation 2 mm.
For bathrooms, always complete the waterproofing first (see above) and allow it at least 24 hours to cure.
2. Adhesion promoter
Apply the MB Kontaktní adhesion promoter with a brush or roller in one even layer. The key is complete coverage of the entire surface with no missed spots — the adhesion promoter evens out absorbency and ensures the bond between substrate and coating.
Allow the promoter to dry thoroughly before proceeding (typically 4–6 hours at +20 °C).
3. First layer of epix+ coating
Before use, thoroughly mix the coating with a slow-speed mixer until a homogeneous paste forms. For larger areas, prepare the full required quantity at once for consistent structure.
Apply the first layer with a stainless steel trowel with rounded corners at a thickness of 1–2 mm. Smooth the layer thoroughly. Allow 12–24 hours to set depending on temperature and humidity.
4. Second layer of coating + sanding
Apply the second layer with the same stainless steel trowel. This is where the desired structure is created — you can produce a smooth, lightly porous surface or add plastic effects, deformations, and voids.
After drying (approximately 24 hours at +20 °C and humidity up to 60 %), sand the entire surface with P120 grit paper and thoroughly remove the resulting dust. This step is critical for the final appearance.
5. Base glaze
Apply the glaze across the full surface with a sponge float. Apply evenly so that the substrate is unified and a base colour layer is created.
6. Final glaze
Apply the final glaze using a dry-rubbing technique with a sponge float. This step accentuates the structure and creates the decorative effect. The intensity of the effect depends on the amount of material and the application technique — for a stronger structure apply more material, for a subtler result apply less.
7. Final 2K sealer
You need to be precise here. The sealer is two-component:
- Mixing ratio A : B = 5 : 1
- Mixing time: at least 2 minutes until both components are fully combined
- Apply immediately after mixing with a nylon roller in an even layer
The sealer is critical for the water resistance of the bathroom. Without it, the system loses its protection against water. We typically recommend two coats of sealer with the manufacturer's recommended pause between them.
Application conditions: temperature and humidity
Microcement is sensitive to conditions during application and curing:
- Substrate and ambient temperature: +15 °C to +25 °C (the technical data sheet allows +5 to +30 °C, but the optimum for appearance is +15 to +25 °C)
- Relative humidity: maximum 75 %
- Do not expose fresh application to water or mechanical load before full curing
- Observe the technological pauses between layers
- Before full-area application we recommend a test sample
In a bathroom this means turning off the heating and underfloor heating to a minimum, ensuring air circulation but not direct draughts. Showering and bathing are possible no earlier than 7 days after completion of the entire system including the sealer.
Coverage: how much material to order
From the technical data sheet: one 20 kg pack of coating covers approximately 10 m² in two layers at 1 mm per layer. For project planning:
| Bathroom size | Walls + floor | Coating consumption |
|---|---|---|
| Small bathroom (4 m²) | approx. 20–25 m² | 2 × 20 kg packs + glazes + sealer |
| Standard bathroom (6 m²) | approx. 30–35 m² | 3–4 × 20 kg packs + glazes + sealer |
| Large bathroom (10 m²) | approx. 50 m² | 5 × 20 kg packs + glazes + sealer |
To this add the adhesion promoter, base and final glaze, and the 2K sealer. Always add a 10–15 % reserve for losses and a test sample.
Maintaining a microcement bathroom
Here is the good news for end users: maintaining microcement is easier than maintaining tiles. No grout, no silicone seals that blacken over time, no scrubbing with a brush.
For daily maintenance, you only need:
- Water and a standard neutral cleaning agent (pH 7 — no strongly acidic or alkaline products)
- A soft cloth or sponge, never an abrasive scourer
- After showering, simply wipe the water off with a squeegee, just as you would with a glass shower screen
What to avoid:
- Strong acids (limescale removers containing HCl) — they can damage the sealer
- Abrasive powders and pastes
- Acetone and strong solvents
After years of use, if the sealer loses its sheen or wears in exposed areas (the shower entry, the area around the basin), it can be reapplied without redoing the entire bathroom.
Lifespan and what to realistically expect
With quality application and normal use, a microcement bathroom has a lifespan of 15–20 years without major intervention. The sealer is the most worn component and may need refreshing after 8–10 years in exposed areas.
The coating itself is extremely long-lived — adhesion of ≥ 0.6 MPa and water permeability W2 according to ČSN EN 15824:2009 ensure that the material itself does not degrade over time, provided the protective sealer layer is maintained.
Natural structural and colour variability of the surface is a feature of the decorative system, not a defect. The client should receive this information before ordering — if they want perfect uniformity, microcement is not the right choice.
Common client concerns — and the truth behind them
Before each project, the tradesperson usually hears the same questions. Here are honest answers to the most common ones.
"Will it crack?"
With a correctly executed system (flat substrate, adhesion promoter, correct layer thickness, expansion joints) it will not crack. Cracks arise either from substrate movement (a new screed applied prematurely) or from application errors (too thick a layer at once).
"Will there be mould?"
Microcement is a homogeneous surface without grout — it actually reduces the risk of mould compared to a tiled bathroom. Mould most often holds in grout lines and silicone seals, which microcement does not have.
"Will it feel cold underfoot?"
Thermal conductivity is 0.6 W/mK — comparable to ceramic tiles. For maximum comfort we recommend combining microcement with underfloor heating, which works excellently (the thin layer responds quickly to temperature).
"What if I do not like the result?"
Before full-area application we always recommend a test sample directly in the space where the bathroom will be built. The appearance of microcement changes with the light, so a showroom sample does not necessarily match the result at home.
"How does it clean when shampoo or make-up gets on it?"
The same as any other surface — with a damp cloth. The 2K sealer is impervious to common cosmetic products.
FAQ: frequent questions
Can microcement be applied in a walk-in shower without a tray?
Yes, and it is one of the most common installations. The key is properly executed waterproofing and a floor slope toward the drain (minimum 1.5 %).
What is the total system thickness?
The coating itself is 2 mm (2 × 1 mm); with adhesion promoter, glazes, and sealer the total is approximately 2–3 mm.
Can microcement be applied DIY?
Technically possible, but we do not recommend it. Application requires experience with a stainless steel trowel, knowledge of working with 2K sealers, and precise observance of technological pauses. An error in one layer shows in the final appearance. For small decorative areas (a feature panel of furniture) it is feasible; for an entire bathroom we recommend a certified applicator.
Can it be applied over underfloor heating?
Yes, microcement is compatible with underfloor heating. Before application the heating must have been operating for at least 14 days (curing the screed), then switched off for the duration of the application and another 7 days after the system is complete.
How long does a complete bathroom installation take?
A standard 6 m² bathroom (after the waterproofing is complete) takes approximately 5–7 working days with technological pauses between layers. The bathroom is fully usable 7 days after completion.
What colour options are available?
The epix+ microcement coating is available in shades according to the colour swatch — from light beiges through greys and anthracites to warmer earth tones. The current palette is available in the epix+ microcement catalogue.
Can microcement be combined with limewash in the same bathroom?
Yes, and it is an elegant solution. Microcement in the shower and on the floor (where the water is), limewash on the remaining walls for a softer, breathable surface. The two materials complement each other visually.
What to do next
If you are considering microcement for your own bathroom or planning a project for a client, here are a few concrete steps:
- End clients and homeowners: visit our showroom at Branická 26/43 in Prague, where you can see microcement in person, not just in photos. We recommend booking a time slot in advance via the contact form.
- Tradespeople and applicators: registration in the epix+ B2B partner portal opens up wholesale prices, a loyalty programme, and technical support for non-standard projects.
- Architects and designers: we offer project collaboration including technical consultation, samples, and references. Contact us directly.
Have a specific bathroom you are planning? Send us the dimensions and photos of the current state — we will come back with a material calculation and a recommended approach.
