Do you have a private house or business premises with two or more floors? Do you need to carry out a renovation in any of them and the stairs are one of the elements to be renovated? Acquire the necessary knowledge and put into practice the tips and tricks that we will introduce below, microcement stairs are the preferred coating option in your project.
If you find this interesting is because stairs mean something more to you. On the one hand, they form an essential element as a link in any multi-story or multi-room building. They have functional characteristics. Likewise, and, on the other hand, the stairs can also grant or offer a decorative role. Combining with the main aesthetics of the building, house or commercial premises and, of the room in particular.
The Microcement Ready-to-use coating on stairs is becoming more popular and known. The aesthetic and modern finishes that we can obtain when using this material, together with the ease of application and the simplicity of its maintenance. Get uniform, elegant effects without the need to carry out works with debris.
Read on to discover why this material can transform your stairs quickly, cleanly and with stunning results.
Types of stairs where microcement can be applied
Microcement is a highly versatile covering that can be applied to different types of stairs, adapting to the characteristics of each design and space. Thanks to its flexibility and modern finishes, microcement is ideal for improving the aesthetics and durability of stairs, regardless of their shape or structure. Here are the main types of stairs where microcement can be applied, providing options for every need:
1. Open stairs
Open staircases are those without side walls, which gives them a lighter and more modern look. Microcement is easily applied on this type of stairs, creating a continuous and elegant surface. It is ideal for large and bright spaces, and can be applied both on the steps and on the landings or adjacent surfaces.
2. Enclosed stairs
Closed staircases are surrounded by side walls, which gives them a more compact and traditional design. In this case, microcement can be applied on the steps and side walls, creating a uniform and minimalist appearance. It is a perfect option for renovating stairs with a modern style, while maintaining functionality and durability.
3. Built-in staircases
Built-in staircases are those integrated in the structure of the house or in a wall recess. Microcement adapts very well to this type of stairs, as it can cover both the steps and the surrounding structure, achieving a modern and clean aesthetic. This continuous finish reinforces the design and gives a feeling of spaciousness to the space.
4. Centrally supported stairs
Centrally supported staircases are those that are supported by a single central point, leaving the steps suspended. Applied both on the steps and on the central support, microcement provides an elegant and functional finish.
Do you want to discover the advantages of microcement stairs? Take advantage because here we talk about them.
Tomás Amat, architect, creative and manager of Cementec
Types of stairs surfaces that can be coated with microcement
Covering your stairs with microcement is one of the best options for renovating or transforming your home. This material stands out for its adaptability to different surfaces, which makes it a unique and versatile option compared to other decorative coatings. Thanks to its ability to adhere to almost any type of surface, microcement is ideal for stairs made of different materials.
On what surfaces can microcement be applied on stairs?
Some of the most common surfaces on which microcement can be applied include:
- Tiles: If you have stairs covered with tiles, microcement can cover them without the need to remove the previous material.
- Marble: Perfect for transforming marble stairs, giving a more contemporary and elegant look.
- Granite: Microcement adheres well to granite, offering an aesthetic and durable solution.
- Cement: Microcement is also ideal for cement stairs, providing a continuous and resistant finish.
- Other materials: Even on wood (MDF), tiles or metal surfaces, microcement can be applied without problems, provided the surface is well prepared.
When can microcement not be applied on stairs?
One of the most frequent cases in which microcement cannot be applied on stairs is when the base has serious structural damage or significant unevenness. If the surface of the staircase is compromised, it is essential to carry out a prior repair before applying microcement. Otherwise, the coating will not adhere properly and could be affected over time, compromising the durability and aesthetics of the finish.
Is it inadvisable to apply microcement on wood? In general, yes. Wood is a material that expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity, which can cause micro-cracks to appear in the micro-cement and affect its integrity.
In addition, if the wood stairs are not fully cured, the microcement siding may highlight the wood grain as the material is applied. This can be a problem if a smooth, even finish is desired.
However, there is an exception. If the wooden stairs are made of MDF (medium density fibreboard), microcement can be applied without major problems. This type of wood is more stable than solid wood, which minimises the risk of cracks or deformations in the cladding. Is this the case for you? If so, go ahead!
Tips prior to the application of microcement stairs
If you are thinking of covering your stairs with microcement, it is important to bear in mind some key tips to ensure a professional finish. Here are the two essential tips you should consider before applying microcement to your stairs.
1. Protect the edges of your stairs
The corners or edges of the stairs are the most vulnerable areas, as they are more exposed to knocks, scratches and possible damage. To prevent these points from deteriorating quickly, we recommend protecting them with corner pieces or aluminium profiles. This simple step will not only protect the edges of your stairs, but can also add a modern and stylish touch to your design, especially if you decide to leave the corner pieces visible. This ensures that, over time, your microcement stairs will keep their aesthetics intact.
2. Incorporate a fibreglass mesh in the base coat
At Cementec, as expert microcement applicators, we always recommend incorporating a fibreglass mesh in the microcement base layer. This material reinforces the structure of the staircase and improves the adhesion of the microcement, providing greater stability and durability in the long term. Although some applicators do not include it, the fibreglass mesh is crucial to ensure that your microcement staircase is resistant to impact and wear, preventing cracks or fissures in the future.
How to apply microcement on stairs step by step
Are you ready to cover your stairs with microcement? It’s time to get down to work! Although at Cementec we offer all the information and materials necessary to carry out this work, we strongly recommend that you rely on a specialised professional. The application of microcement on stairs requires an advanced technique and experience to ensure a perfect and long-lasting finish.
If, on the other hand, you have the knowledge and experience to do it yourself, here is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to apply microcement on stairs.
Step 1: check the state of the surface
First of all, and as for any renovation where microcement is going to be applied, a prior and exhaustive review of the existing surface must be carried out. It must be checked the optimal state of the stair, as well as possible appearance of future cracks or imperfections.
If any type of problem is detected in this prior step, it must be proceeded to the correction of it before starting the microcement ready to use application process.
Step 2: priming microcement stairs
Secondly, after being sure that each and every one of the steps of the stairs do not present any problem and, therefore, are in good condition, the appropriate layer of Cementec primer or adhesion promoter must be applied.
Step 3: level the steps before microcement application
Thus, after priming and waiting for the corresponding drying time, the steps must be levelled and protected, in the same way as the surface that surrounds them, to avoid breakage and wear in later or future processes.
Step 4: apply a first layer of microcement cementec base
Next, a first layer of the Cementec microcement BASE will be applied, but not before placing the fiberglass mesh mentioned in the previous tips. The recommended guidelines for application, sanding and drying of the product will be followed.
Step 5: apply a second layer of microcement cementec base
Repeat the previous procedure (without placing the mesh), being in this case the second and last layer of base microcement to be applied, but this time with the desired colour pigmentation.
Step 6: coat your stair with microcement ready to use cementec
On this occasion, apply a first layer with the desired microcement finish, following the guidelines, waiting, sanding and drying times recommended by the product or manufacturer.
Step 7: coat your stair with a second microcement ready to use cementec
As with steps 4 and 5, step 6 must be repeated with a second microcement finish layer to achieve the desired results.
Step 8: seal and protect microcement stairs
To finish the process, it is crucial to apply one or more coats of sealer and protection to your microcement stairs. This step not only ensures a brighter, more uniform finish, but also provides long-lasting protection against stains, moisture and wear. The right sealer, which you can find in the wide products section of our website, will help your microcement stairs retain their flawless appearance over time.
With all this information at your disposal, do you feel ready to apply microcement on stairs? We’d love to hear how it went for you. Share your experiences, recommendations or results with us on our social networks – we can’t wait to see your microcement staircase projects and continue to accompany you in your renovation!
