Microcement Vs. Traditional Tiles: Which Is Better For Your Renovation?
By: Marcrete Concrete Contracting
When planning a home or commercial renovation, the materials you choose have a lasting impact on both function and aesthetics.
Flooring and wall finishes are especially important, and two popular options have taken centre stage: microcement and traditional tiles.
Each offers unique advantages and challenges, depending on your space, style, and budget.
Let’s get right into it!
Overview Of Microcement And Traditional Tiles
What Is Microcement?
Microcement is a cement-based coating applied in thin layers to create a smooth, continuous surface.
It combines cement, water-based resins, additives, and mineral pigments. It is especially popular in modern interior design due to its seamless look and wide customisation potential.
What Are Traditional Tiles?
Traditional tiles, such as ceramic or porcelain, have been used in construction for centuries. They are produced in standard shapes and sizes, installed with adhesive, and finished with grout.
Their popularity is due to their durability, affordability, and availability in countless patterns and styles.
Differences In Application And Materials
Microcement is applied directly to surfaces like concrete, plaster, or even tiles, requiring no joints. In contrast, tile installation involves cutting, placing, and grouting individual pieces.
While microcement results in a sleek and modern finish, traditional tiles offer a classic and highly patterned alternative.
Aesthetic And Design Versatility
Colour And Finish Options
Microcement offers a nearly unlimited palette of colours and finishes, from matte to high gloss. It can mimic materials like polished concrete or stone.
Tiles also come in a wide range of colours, but options may be limited to what manufacturers produce, making microcement more flexible for custom looks.
Seamless Surfaces Vs. Grouted Finishes
Microcement creates a continuous surface without breaks or joints, which can make a space feel larger and more refined.
Traditional tiles, by nature, require grout lines that can interrupt the visual flow and may discolour over time. Seamless finishes are especially valued in minimalist or industrial designs.
Suitability For Modern And Classic Styles
Microcement works well in contemporary, Scandinavian, and industrial interiors. It brings a clean, urban look to floors, walls, and even furniture. Traditional tiles remain ideal for vintage, Mediterranean, or farmhouse styles due to their texture, patterns, and tactile appeal.
Durability And Maintenance
Resistance To Cracking, Stains, And Wear
Microcement is highly resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and stains when sealed properly. However, incorrect application may result in microcracks. Traditional tiles are also durable, though grout lines are more susceptible to staining and cracking over time. High-quality tile installations can last for decades.
Cleaning And Upkeep Considerations
Microcement is easy to clean with neutral soap and water, as it does not trap dirt in seams. Tiles are equally straightforward to clean, but grout lines may require periodic scrubbing or resealing. In wet areas, microcement’s seamless surface offers better waterproofing when correctly applied.
Long-Term Performance And Repairs
Over time, microcement can maintain its look with minimal upkeep if sealed every few years. Minor damages can be repaired with refinishing rather than replacement. Traditional tiles, while long-lasting, may crack or chip and require individual tile replacement, which can be more labour-intensive.
Installation Process And Costs
Installation Time And Labour Requirements
Installing microcement involves multiple thin layers, drying times, and sealant application, which takes several days and a skilled hand. Tile installation is more straightforward and widely understood by tradespeople, but cutting and grouting tiles can still take considerable time in complex layouts.
Cost Comparison And Value For Money
Microcement installation is often more expensive due to labour and materials but adds premium appeal and a custom finish. Traditional tiles range widely in price, offering budget-friendly and luxury options alike. The total cost depends on size, material, and installation complexity.
Professional Vs. DIY Application Feasibility
DIY tile installations are possible with practice and patience. Microcement, however, requires experience and precision to avoid cracking or uneven finishes, making professional application almost essential for quality results.
Best Applications And Use Cases
Where Microcement Works Best
Microcement excels in bathrooms, kitchens, and living spaces where a sleek, water-resistant finish is desired. It is also popular for countertops, furniture, and feature walls, offering a consistent visual flow throughout open-plan spaces.
Where Tiles Remain The Better Option
Tiles are still preferred in heritage homes, decorative installations, and areas where high-impact resistance is necessary, such as entryways and patios. Tiles also offer a tactile variety that microcement cannot replicate.
Combining Both For Maximum Impact
Some designers successfully combine both materials—for instance, using microcement on walls and tiles on floors—to strike a balance between style and practicality. This hybrid approach adds texture and visual interest while maintaining functionality.
FAQ
Is Microcement Waterproof And Suitable For Bathrooms?
Yes, microcement is waterproof when sealed properly, making it a strong choice for bathrooms, including showers and walls exposed to moisture.
How Long Does Microcement Last Compared To Tiles?
When maintained properly, microcement can last 10 to 20 years or more. Tiles often last longer, particularly when installed and maintained correctly, sometimes up to 50 years.
Can Microcement Be Applied Over Existing Tiles?
Yes, microcement can be applied over existing tiles, provided the surface is clean, stable, and well-prepared. This reduces demolition and renovation time.
Which Is Better For High-Traffic Areas?
High-quality tiles typically offer better impact resistance. Microcement performs well in moderate to high traffic areas when sealed properly but may show wear faster in commercial settings.
Do Microcement Surfaces Require Sealing?
Yes, sealing is essential for microcement to resist water, stains, and scratches. Reapplying sealant every few years helps extend its lifespan.
Are Traditional Tiles More Slip-Resistant?
Many tiles are manufactured with textured, anti-slip surfaces. Microcement can also be treated with anti-slip finishes, though it is naturally smoother.
How Do The Installation Timelines Compare?
Microcement typically requires five to seven days to install and cure, while tiling can take a similar amount of time depending on surface area and complexity.
Which Is More Environmentally Friendly?
Microcement produces less waste and often uses fewer resources in transport. However, sustainably sourced tiles can also be eco-friendly if properly chosen.
Can Microcement Be Used On Walls And Floors?
Yes, microcement is versatile and adheres to vertical and horizontal surfaces, making it ideal for a unified interior finish.
How Do Costs Compare Between The Two?
Microcement generally has a higher cost per square foot due to labour, while tiles offer a wider range of pricing options. Long-term maintenance should also be considered.
Conclusion
Microcement Vs. Traditional Tiles: which Is better for your renovation? Both microcement and traditional tiles have their strengths, depending on your design goals and practical needs.
Microcement offers a modern, seamless finish perfect for minimal interiors, while tiles bring classic charm and proven durability.
By weighing factors like style, budget, application, and maintenance, you can choose the best option for your renovation and achieve a long-lasting, beautiful result.
If you have any questions about our article “Microcement Vs. Traditional Tiles: Which Is Better For Your Renovation?” or need microcement services in the Greater Toronto Area, contact us at info@marcrete.ca or connect with us on social media.