MyCROCEMENT™ Application Guide

Step 1: Surface Evaluation (Decision Gate)

Before applying MyCROCEMENT™, the existing surface must pass a simple but critical check.

This step is not informational—it is a pass/fail decision that determines whether installation can proceed.

Decision Rule

Proceed only if the surface meets all stability requirements below.

If any condition fails, the surface must be repaired before continuing.

PASS Criteria (Surface is Approved if ALL are true)

The surface must be:

• • Firm and fully bonded to its substrate

• • Free from movement, flexing, or deflection

• • Free of loose, flaking, or crumbling material

• • Structurally sound with no active delamination

• • Stable enough that tapping or pressure produces no hollow or loose response

If all conditions are met → the surface is approved for MyCROCEMENT™ application.

FAIL Criteria (Do NOT proceed if ANY apply)

Stop the process if the surface shows:

• • Loose or hollow-sounding areas

• • Active cracking that indicates movement

• • Flaking paint, coatings, or grout

• • Substrate deflection or flex under pressure

• • Signs of structural instability or deterioration

These issues must be corrected before proceeding.

Substrate Type Is NOT a Factor

Surface material (tile, concrete, cement board, or coated surfaces) is irrelevant at this stage.

Existing tile is one of the most common substrates. Learn more in our Microcement Over Tile Guide.

Only stability matters. If the surface is stable, it is suitable for MyCROCEMENT™.

Outcome

• • PASS → Proceed to Step 2: Surface Prep & Repairs

• • FAIL → Repair and stabilize the surface before continuing

Next Step

This is where cleaning, minor fixes, and final preparation take place before priming.

Step 2: Surface Prep & Repairs (Surface Normalization Stage)

The goal of this stage is to normalize the surface so it is clean, stable, and ready to receive the MyCROCEMENT™ system.

This step does not improve structural integrity—it prepares the surface for proper bonding and uniform application.

Objective

The surface must be:

• • Clean and free of contaminants

• • Structurally sound (already confirmed in Step 1)

• • Free of loose or weak material

• • Flat enough to receive uniform coating layers

Step 2.1: Deep Cleaning

Remove all materials that interfere with adhesion:

• • Dust and debris (vacuum or sweep thoroughly)

• • Grease, oil, soap residue, or wax

• • Any surface contamination that reduces bonding

Use a degreaser where necessary, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.

The surface must be completely dry before continuing.

Step 2.2: Remove Weak or Unstable Material

Eliminate anything not firmly bonded:

• • Flaking paint or coatings

• • Loose grout or deteriorated fillers

• • Weak surface layers that may separate later

If it moves, flakes, or crumbles—it must be removed.

Step 2.3: Localized Repairs

Repair only where necessary:

• • Fill small cracks, chips, and surface voids

• • Ensure repairs are fully cured before proceeding

• • Keep repairs flush with surrounding surface

Do not attempt structural reconstruction at this stage.

Encountering cracks, adhesion issues, or other problems? See the Microcement Troubleshooting Guide.

Flatness Guideline

MyCROCEMENT™ follows the existing surface profile.

• • Minor texture is acceptable

• • Sharp irregularities must be corrected

• • High and low spots should be minimized where possible

If you can clearly feel it, you will likely see it after application.

Outcome

The surface is ready when it is:

• • Clean

• • Dry

• • Stable (confirmed in Step 1)

• • Free of loose material

• • Reasonably uniform in profile

Once complete → proceed to Step 3: Priming & Reinforcement

This is where the critical layer between existing surface and microcement is applied.

Step 3: Priming & Reinforcement (System Lock-In Stage)

This stage locks the MyCROCEMENT™ system to the substrate and establishes the foundation for long-term performance.

It ensures strong adhesion, controls movement, and creates a consistent base for all subsequent layers.

Do not skip this stage.

Objective

This stage serves three critical functions:

• • Promote strong adhesion to the substrate

• • Create a consistent working surface

• • Reinforce areas susceptible to movement or stress

Once completed, the substrate and coating system begin functioning as a single assembly.

Step 3.1: Apply Primer

Apply the recommended MyCROCEMENT™ primer evenly across the entire surface.

Guidelines:

• • Use a roller or brush as appropriate

• • Apply a thin, even coat

• • Avoid puddles or excessive buildup

• • Ensure complete surface coverage

The primer should dry uniformly and leave no wet or tacky areas.

Allow the primer to dry completely before continuing.

Step 3.2: Install Reinforcement Where Required

Reinforcement mesh helps distribute stresses and minimize the risk of cracks telegraphing through the finished surface.

Mesh is commonly used on:

• • Existing tile installations

• • Material transitions

• • Areas containing joints

• • High-stress surfaces

Install mesh according to system requirements and ensure it will be fully encapsulated within the base coat layer.

Critical Areas Requiring Attention

Pay particular attention to:

• • Inside corners

• • Outside corners

• • Floor-to-wall transitions

• • Changes in substrate material

• • Existing joints and seams

These locations experience the greatest movement and benefit most from reinforcement.

Common Errors

Avoid the following:

• • Skipping primer

• • Uneven primer application

• • Allowing mesh wrinkles or folds

• • Excessive mesh overlap creating ridges

• • Leaving reinforcement exposed

Problems introduced at this stage often become visible in later layers.

Verification Check

Before proceeding:

• • Primer is fully dry

• • Reinforcement is properly positioned

• • Mesh lies flat without wrinkles

• • Surface feels uniform and secure

Once verified, proceed to Step 4: Base Coats.

Step 5: Finish Coats (Aesthetic Finish Stage)

With the structural build stage complete, attention shifts from performance to appearance.

The finish coats define the visual character of the surface. Texture, movement, depth, and overall aesthetic are established here.

Unlike base coats, finish coats are not intended to build thickness. Their purpose is refinement.

Objective

The finish coat stage is designed to:

• • Create the final visual appearance

• • Refine surface texture

• • Introduce movement and character

• • Establish consistency across the finished surface

This is the stage where craftsmanship becomes visible.

Step 5.1: Prepare the Surface

Before applying finish coats:

• • Confirm base coats are fully dry

• • Lightly sand to remove minor imperfections

• • Vacuum and remove all dust

The surface should feel smooth, clean, and uniform.

Step 5.2: Apply First Finish Coat (Technique Stage)

Using a clean steel trowel, apply the first finish coat in thin, controlled passes.

Focus on technique, not appearance:

• • Maintain consistent pressure across the surface

• • Keep layers thin and controlled

• • Avoid trying to “design” the final look at this stage

• • Allow natural movement from the trowel to occur

MyCROCEMENT™ already contains factory-integrated color, so no adjustment or blending is required during application.

This coat is about establishing a uniform working surface for refinement, not achieving the final aesthetic outcome.

Step 5.3: Refine the Surface (Control Stage)

Once the first finish coat has dried:

• • Lightly sand high spots and sharp edges

• • Refine transitions between trowel movements

• • Remove all dust completely before recoating

The goal is control, not correction. Avoid excessive sanding or overworking isolated areas, as this can disrupt surface consistency.

Step 5.4: Apply Second Finish Coat (Aesthetic Stage)

Apply the second finish coat to unify the surface and establish the final appearance.

Focus on visual balance:

• • Maintain consistent application rhythm

• • Allow natural variation in movement

• • Avoid overworking areas that already look complete

• • Step back periodically to assess overall harmony

At this stage, the surface begins to express its final character. Small variations in tone and movement are expected and contribute to the natural look of the system.

Do not attempt to force uniformity — aim for controlled consistency instead.

Appearance Guidelines

Every microcement surface is unique.

Natural variation is expected and contributes to the character of the finish.

The objective is not perfect uniformity, but intentional consistency.

Well-executed finishes appear natural, balanced, and cohesive.

Common Errors

Avoid:

• • Applying finish coats too thick

• • Overworking material as it sets

• • Chasing isolated imperfections

• • Excessive sanding

• • Rushing between coats

Most finish defects are created by overcorrection rather than undercorrection.

Verification Check

Before proceeding:

• • Finish coats are fully dry

• • Surface appearance is consistent

• • No unwanted ridges or heavy trowel marks remain

• • Texture appears intentional and balanced

• • All dust has been removed

Once verified, proceed to Step 6: Seal & Protect.