From unsightly to hotel vibes: microcement over tiles to save the day
If your bathroom tiles have seen better days, you’re not alone — and I’ve got a sleek, stylish solution that interior designers and surfacing experts alike are raving about. Whether you’re doing a full bathroom renovation or just updating a small space, using microcement over tiles is a cost-effective way to give your bathroom a modern look with minimal fuss and maximum visual appeal.
Ad info: I was sent a 5msq over-tiles microcement kit and a spreading spatula by Concrete Lab and I only had to pay for the postage, so I’m marking this as an ad for that reason. Please note, I’ve used microcement many times before and genuinely love it, so, as always, you’re getting my full and honest opinion in this post. Concrete Lab have offered all my followers on Instagram a discount code – use CDS10 at checkout for 10% off everything.
First Step: Why Microcement?
Before you reach for the tile paint or consider a full rip-out, let’s talk about why microcement coatings are an excellent option for modern interior design. This decorative coating is a thin layer (just 2–3mm!) that goes directly over existing surfaces — including old tiles, concrete, plaster, and even wood — making it a dream for budget DIY bathroom renovations.
It’s an ideal material for wet areas, such as shower enclosures, bathroom walls, shower floors, and even microcement bathtubs or bathroom sinks. With its high resistance, waterproof finish, and seamless surface, it’s no wonder the popularity of microcement bathrooms is rising, although I’ve been banging on about it for years now! Check out the microcement section of my blog.
Tools for microcementing over tiles
Click the image above to shop any of the tools I used. The microcement DIY kit came from Concrete Lab and is available via their website.
What Makes Microcement a Perfect Choice?
Let’s break down the advantages of microcement — and trust me, there are plenty. Regular readers will know that I dedicated a whole post to what is microcement and why you need it as a DIYer so check it out if you haven’t already read it.
- Seamless finish: Say goodbye to grout lines — that’s right. No more scrubbing!
- Great versatility: Suitable for bathroom floors, shower areas, bathroom furniture, microcement countertops, and even microcement sink setups.
- Water resistance: Thanks to the fabulous professional-grade sealant.
- Variety of surfaces: Apply it over vertical or horizontal areas for a truly continuous surface.
- Modern style: Choose from a wide range of colours, finishes, and different application techniques to create your unique style.
Surface Preparation is Key
The most important thing before application is to ensure the surface is in good condition. You don’t need a perfectly flat base — but everything should be in perfect condition structurally. Clean, dry, and solid is the goal.
If you’re working over old tiles, make sure they’re well-adhered and degreased.
Before You Start
🛑 Safety first:
Sanding microcement surfaces creates concrete dust, which can be harmful if inhaled. Wear a dust mask and use a vacuum attachment or extractor when sanding. Keeping the room well ventilated (think windows wide open and fans on) is also a must.
📘 Read the instructions — more than once.
The application of microcement has precise steps and timings. Once it’s mixed, you only have a short window to apply it before it begins to set. Take time to plan the process, lay out your tools, and prep the area in advance.
💧 Dilution matters:
You’ll need to dilute several liquids in the kit — including the primer, resin mixture (combined with the microcement powder), and the sealant. Check dilution ratios carefully before adding water.
🪣 Clean tools = clean finish:
Any contamination can affect your finish. Clean buckets, spatulas, and rollers thoroughly before use.
Step 1: Prepare Your Shower Tiles
This is the most important thing for long-term success.
- Clean your tiled walls and shower floor thoroughly.
- Remove all soap residue, mould, and loose debris.
- Ensure the tiles are in perfect condition — no loose tiles or crumbling grout.
Apply the Primer
Mix the Concrete Lab primer as per the instructions and roll it on using a foam roller. Be generous and thorough but don’t completely saturate the surface so it’s dripping everywhere! — it should cover every tile, including corners, edges, and between fittings.
🕒 Let it dry for the full time recommended by Concrete Lab.
Step 2: Mix the Microcement
⚠️ Once you mix, the clock starts ticking.
- Mix the microcement powder and resin exactly as directed.
- Use a paddle mixer attached to a cordless drill for a smooth, lump-free blend.
- Top tip: Mix the dry powder first, before adding liquid. It helps prevent lumps.
- Scrape the sides and bottom of the bucket to make sure everything is incorporated.
You’re aiming for a creamy, spreadable consistency that holds its shape but isn’t stiff.
Step 3: Apply the First Coat
Use a flexible spatula or trowel to apply the microcement in thin, even layers (1–2 mm). Anything thinner won’t cover the tile surface properly; anything thicker risks cracking.
Work systematically from top to bottom — this prevents wet product falling onto areas you’ve already done.
Cut your fibreglass mesh and press into the first layer of microcement while still wet.
Once dry (usually 12-24 hours), lightly sand with an 80–120 grit sanding pad to smooth out any raised spots or lines.
🧹 Vacuum up all the dust using your sander’s extractor or vacuum.
Step 4: Second Primer & Coat
Apply a second coat of diluted primer and let it dry — about 30 minutes is usually enough.
While waiting, mix a fresh batch of microcement (as above).
Apply your second layer just like the first — using a light hand, a flexible tool, and working steadily.
💡 Top Tip: For narrow areas behind shower fittings or in recesses, try using smaller tools like a flexible artist’s palette knife or a cut-down spreader. Avoid stiff or pointed tools that may dig into the surface.
Allow to dry and then sand lightly again if necessary. Vacuum thoroughly.
Step 5: Third Primer & Coat
Apply a third coat of diluted primer and let it dry — about 30 minutes is usually enough.
While waiting, mix a fresh batch of microcement (as above).
Apply your third layer just like the first two.
Allow to dry and then sand lightly again if necessary. Vacuum thoroughly.
Step 6: Seal the Microcement
Microcement is highly porous before sealing — and in shower areas, sealing is non-negotiable.
Mix the Concrete Lab sealer according to instructions. If it’s a two-part product, use separate syringes for accurate measuring.
Apply generously with a foam roller, working across shower walls and the shower tray. Keep the surface visibly wet for maximum absorption.
🕒 Let it dry fully, and then apply additional coats as required (each coat may need a different dilution ratio — check the instructions).
💡 Top Tip: Work from bottom to top when sealing vertical surfaces. That way, any drips from above won’t mark areas you’ve already sealed.
Aftercare for microcement bathrooms
Once sealed, your microcement shower enclosure will have a smooth, waterproof finish that’s easy to maintain with regular cleaning and pH-neutral products.
Thanks to the lack of grout lines, there’s nowhere for mould to hide — just a beautiful, continuous surface that’s made to last.
Advantages of microcement over tiles & microcement in bathrooms generally
If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to upgrade your bathroom, microcement is the perfect choice — especially in wet rooms and showers.
The advantages of microcementing over tiles are:
- ✅ No tiles to rip out
- ✅ Stunning modern look
- ✅ Durable, easy to clean
- ✅ Works in small spaces
- ✅ Great versatility across walls, floors, and even ceilings
Whether you’re after soft neutrals or a bold microcement colour, Concrete Lab’s system gives you complete creative control and a design style that’s both timeless and trending.
Is microcement over tiles or a microcement bathroom right for you?
If your bathroom is feeling more “seen better days” than “spa sanctuary,” it might be time for a refresh. But don’t rip out those old tiles just yet! Thanks to Concrete Lab’s microcement over tiles DIY kits, you can completely transform your space into a modern, minimalist dream — no messy demolition required.
Whether it’s for microcement showers, bathroom walls, microcement finishes for shower areas, or even microcement surfaces in the sink or shower enclosure — it’s the perfect choice for elevating your space.
✨ Ready to transform your tiles?
Visit ConcreteLab.co.uk to choose your kit size, explore the range of colours, and start planning your microcement over tiles shower upgrade today.
