Why Microcement is the Ideal Choice for Eco-Friendly Projects

 The demand for sustainable building materials is on the rise, driven by the urgent need to reduce the environmental impact of the construction sector. According to recent reports, the global green building materials market size exceeded USD 320.7 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 880.32 billion by 2032. This growth is fueled by increasing construction activities in regions like Asia Pacific and North America, along with a growing awareness of the adverse environmental impacts of traditional building materials.

We know that buildings are significant contributors to global CO2 emissions. Adopting sustainable materials and methods not only helps in lowering emissions but also improves indoor air quality, conserves natural resources, and promotes long-term ecological balance. Green buildings have been shown to use 30-40% less energy and 20-30% less water compared to conventional buildings, illustrating their efficiency and environmental benefits.

Among the various sustainable building materials available, microcement stands out as a versatile and eco-friendly option. Its unique properties and applications make it an ideal choice for modern construction projects aimed at sustainability. Microcement's low VOC emissions, incorporation of recycled materials, and energy-efficient production process align perfectly with the goals of sustainable development.

What is Microcement?

Microcement, also known as microconcrete, is a high-performance, decorative coating composed of cement, water-based resins, additives, and color pigments. It is typically applied in thin layers, providing a smooth and seamless finish. The material is highly adhesive, allowing it to bond with a variety of substrates including concrete, tiles, plasterboard, and wood. Its flexibility and durability make it a preferred choice for both new constructions and renovations.

Eco-Tech offers Diasen Decorkrete [LINK], which incorporates mineral powders to provide incredible depth and variation for your finished project. According to Stephen Gardiner, Architect, "Microcement offers designers a flexible, sustainable material that meets the aesthetic and functional needs of modern architecture."

Microcement offers designers a flexible, sustainable material that meets the aesthetic and functional needs of modern architecture.

 One of the key advantages of microcement is its versatility. It can be used in numerous settings, making it suitable for a wide range of applications:

• Floors: Microcement flooring is popular in both residential and commercial spaces due to its durability and modern aesthetic. The seamless finish not only enhances the visual appeal but also makes the floors easy to clean and maintain.
• Walls: Applying microcement to walls can create a unique, textured look that adds depth and interest to any room. It is particularly favored in minimalist and industrial design styles.
• Countertops: In kitchens and bathrooms, microcement countertops offer a sleek, contemporary look while being resistant to stains and water. This makes them both functional and stylish.
• Furniture: Microcement can also be used to coat furniture pieces, such as tables and benches, providing an industrial-inspired aesthetic that is both durable and distinctive.
• Kitchens and Bathrooms: Microcement can be used even in basins that will be exposed to running water such as bathtubs, shower basins and surrounds. 
• Outdoor Spaces: Due to its resistance to weather and UV rays, microcement is suitable for outdoor applications including patios, pool decks, and facades. Its non-slip properties make it a safe choice for wet areas.

Environmental Benefits of Microcement

Low VOC Emissions

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are harmful chemicals that can easily become vapors or gasses. They are commonly found in many building materials, paints, and finishes. VOCs contribute to indoor air pollution and can cause a range of health problems, including headaches, dizziness, respiratory issues, and long-term health effects such as liver and kidney damage. Indoor air quality is crucial for overall health, especially in residential and commercial buildings where people spend a significant amount of time.

Microcement has low to no VOC emissions, making it a healthier choice for indoor environments. This feature not only improves indoor air quality but also reduces the risk of health issues associated with VOC exposure. Using microcement can significantly enhance the living and working conditions in buildings, promoting better health and well-being for occupants.

Use of Recycled Materials

Microcement can incorporate various recycled materials, such as industrial byproducts, glass, and waste from demolition sites. These materials are processed and mixed into the microcement, providing a sustainable way to reuse waste products that would otherwise contribute to landfill waste.

Recycled materials in microcement help reduce the demand for virgin resources and minimizes environmental impact. This practice conserves natural resources, reduces energy consumption required for new material production, and decreases the overall carbon footprint of construction projects. For instance, the use of recycled glass and industrial byproducts in microcement production can lower greenhouse gas emissions significantly compared to traditional building materials.

Energy Efficiency

The production of microcement is more energy-efficient compared to traditional concrete. Traditional concrete production involves energy-intensive processes such as mining, transportation, and high-temperature kiln operations. In contrast, microcement production requires lower temperatures and less energy, reducing overall energy consumption. Furthermore, manufacturers often employ energy-efficient technologies and sustainable practices in the production process, further enhancing the environmental benefits of microcement.

Microcement is applied in thin layers, typically 2-3 mm thick, which significantly reduces the amount of material needed. This thin application not only conserves resources but also decreases the energy required for transportation and installation. The lightweight nature of microcement reduces the structural load on buildings, leading to potential energy savings in heating and cooling systems.

Reduction of Construction Waste

One of the standout benefits of microcement is its ability to be applied directly over existing surfaces such as tiles, concrete, plaster, and wood. This eliminates the need for extensive demolition, which is often associated with traditional renovation methods. By avoiding demolition, microcement significantly reduces the amount of construction waste generated. This not only saves on disposal costs but also minimizes the environmental impact of renovation projects. The ability to refurbish existing surfaces with microcement supports a circular economy in construction, where materials are reused and waste is minimized.

In summary, microcement offers numerous environmental benefits that make it an excellent choice for sustainable building practices. Its low VOC emissions, use of recycled materials, energy-efficient production, and ability to reduce construction waste all contribute to its eco-friendly profile. By choosing microcement, builders and designers can create healthier, more sustainable buildings that benefit both occupants and the environment.

Practical Tips for Using Microcement

Surface Preparation

Proper surface preparation is crucial for achieving a durable and aesthetically pleasing microcement finish. The existing substrate must be clean, dry, and free from any contaminants such as oil, dust, or grease. Any cracks or irregularities should be repaired and leveled to ensure a smooth application surface. As Jason Nelson, CEO of Eco-Tech Building Solutions, emphasizes, "The key to a successful microcement application is in the preparation. Ensuring that the substrate is properly cleaned, repaired, and primed will provide a solid foundation for the microcement layers."

Cleaning and Repair: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the surface with a suitable cleaner to remove any contaminants. Repair any cracks or holes using a compatible filler. For uneven surfaces, apply a leveling compound to create a flat, even base.

Priming: Applying a primer like our Grip Primer is essential to enhance the adhesion of the microcement to the substrate. Use a primer that is specifically designed for microcement applications, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times and application methods.

Application Techniques

Microcement application involves several layers, each contributing to the final finish's durability and appearance. The traditional process includes a base coat, a reinforcement mesh, and multiple finishing coats. However, thanks to Decorkretes strength and flexibility, no mesh layer is required saving time and money in application.

Base Coat:

Apply the base coat of microcement using a trowel, spreading it evenly across the surface. This layer serves as the foundation for the subsequent layers and helps to ensure a smooth, uniform finish.

Second Coat: 

Apply your second and last layer of Decorkrete. Use a trowel to achieve a smooth, seamless finish. The beauty of microcement lies in its variations, so achieving a perfect uniformity is not necessary. You can use the granules themselves as a guide for the thickness of each layer. 

Sealing and Protection:

To enhance the longevity of microcement surfaces, apply Aquafloor Eco, our 100% waterproof top coat to ensure that your job is protected. This will help protect the surface from stains, moisture, and wear. 

Microcement is a versatile and sustainable material that offers numerous benefits for modern construction projects. Its seamless finish, durability, and low maintenance requirements make it an excellent choice for both interior and exterior applications. By following proper surface preparation and application techniques, and maintaining the surfaces correctly, microcement can provide a beautiful and long-lasting solution for any building project.