Microcement vs Epoxy
What they are
- Microcement (microtopping): Thin cement–polymer coating (typically 2–3 mm) trowelled in layers, then sealed. Seamless, mineral look.
- Epoxy resin: 100% solids or water-based resin system (often 1–3 mm) rolled/trowelled, self-smoothing or textured; can include flakes/quartz for grip.
Quick take
- Look/feel: Microcement = warm, natural, matte with subtle movement. Epoxy = sleek, uniform, from matte to high-gloss, customizable colors/effects.
- Toughness: Epoxy resists chemicals/abrasion better; microcement resists micro-cracks if substrate is stable and sealer is maintained.
- UV & yellowing: Microcement reads color from its sealer (generally stable if PU aliphatic). Standard epoxies can amber under UV; use UV-stable topcoat.
- Slip: Both need the right finish—add aggregates/sealers for wet zones.
Where they fit best
- Microcement: Homes, hotels, cafés; bathrooms and feature walls; over tiles to avoid demolition; continuous floor-to-wall finishes.
- Epoxy: Garages, kitchens, workshops, retail; high-traffic and spill-prone areas; decorative metallic/flake effects; hygienic zones.
Performance & comfort
- Thickness/build-up: Microcement 2–3 mm; Epoxy 1–3 mm (heavier build for industrial).
- Crack bridging: Both rely on substrate—use mesh/elastic primers; microcement benefits from fiberglass mesh in the system.
- Chemical resistance: Epoxy excellent (oils, detergents, many chemicals); microcement moderate—sealer-dependent.
- Abrasion/scratches: Epoxy better; microcement can patina (especially matte).
- Thermal/UFH: Both work with underfloor heating; follow max surface temps and staged heat-up.
- Acoustics: Both are hard surfaces; underlays/area rugs help.
Installation & programme
- Substrate prep (critical for both): moisture tests, grinding, crack repairs, leveling.
- Microcement: multiple thin trowel coats + primer + sealer; artisan-dependent; typical return to service 3–7 days.
- Epoxy: primer + body/self-level + topcoat; faster return to service 1–4 days with rapid systems.
- Joints: Both seamless, but movement joints in substrate must be honored.
Maintenance & lifespan
- Routine care: Neutral cleaners; no steam/harsh solvents.
- Topcoat reseal: Microcement PU topcoat every 2–4 years (use and exposure dependent). Epoxy topcoat refresh 3–5 years in busy areas.
- Expected lifespan (proper care): Microcement 10–15+ years; Epoxy 10–20+ years (industrial systems longer).
Costs (percentages only; baseline = Microcement = 0%)
(Comparable, professional systems on a sound, prepared substrate; site and brand matter.)
- Materials per m²: Epoxy −10% to +20% vs baseline (standard to decorative/UV-stable).
- Installation labour per m²: Epoxy −15% to +10% vs baseline (fewer hand-trowel passes on many jobs).
- Substrate prep (grinding, repairs, leveling): Epoxy 0–10% vs baseline (similar; may rise with heavy self-level).
- Lifecycle maintenance over ~10–12 yrs (reseals/touch-ups): Epoxy −10–25% vs baseline (less frequent reseal in many use cases).
- Downtime/programme impact: Epoxy −20–40% vs baseline (faster cure options).
Advantages & benefits
Microcement
- Design continuity: floor-to-wall/built-ins; minimal build-up for door clearances.
- Natural, tactile aesthetic with handcrafted variation.
- Tile-over compatibility to avoid demolition (with correct primer/leveller).
Epoxy
- High chemical & wear resistance for kitchens, garages, retail.
- Hygienic, non-porous surface; easy cleaning.
- Flexible finishes: solid color, flakes, quartz broadcast, metallics; UV-stable topcoats available.
- Fast return to service with rapid systems.
Risks & how to avoid them
- Moisture in slab (both): Osmosis/blisters, bond failure. → Moisture testing (RH/CM); vapor-control primers where needed.
- UV yellowing (epoxy): Ambering outdoors/bright interiors. → Specify aliphatic PU/UV-stable topcoat.
- Scratching/scuffing (both): Hard grit, chair legs. → Entrance mats, felt pads, maintenance topcoats.
- Telegraphing cracks (both): Substrate movement. → Honor movement joints; stitch/repair static cracks; use reinforcing mesh in microcement systems.
- Slippery when wet (both): Smooth gloss in wet areas. → Matte finishes or fine anti-slip aggregates; test slip rating.
- Color variation (microcement): Hand-applied nuance becomes “mottling.” → Approve on-site sample/mock-up first.
Quick choice guide
- Design-led, warm/mineral look, thin build, bathroom walls & floors: Microcement
- Spill/chemical resistance, heavy footfall, hygiene, fast turnaround: Epoxy (with UV-stable topcoat where sunny)
- Unsure? Use Epoxy in kitchens/garages/commercial, Microcement in living/bath/spa zones for texture and continuity.
One-line FAQ
- Can I put them over tiles? Yes—if tiles are sound, degreased, mechanically keyed, and leveled; use the manufacturer’s primer system.
- Outdoor use? Prefer UV-stable resin systems; microcement needs rated exterior sealer and strict detailing.
- Repair look? Epoxy spot repairs blend better in flake/quartz finishes; microcement repairs may be visible—plan full-area refresh if needed.
