Does Microcement Crack? Causes & How to Prevent It
- محمد عصام
- Dec 1, 2025
- 3 min read
Microcement has become one of the most desirable finishes for modern architecture, offering seamless beauty, durability, and complete design freedom. But one question continues to appear among architects and clients when considering microcement for walls, floors, kitchens, and bathrooms:
Does microcement crack?
The truth is simple:Microcement can crack, but only when the system is not applied correctly. When installed with a complete professional system—reinforced layers, high-quality primers, controlled thickness, and proper substrate preparation—microcement becomes a stable, flexible, long-lasting finish suitable for high-end residential and commercial projects.
Today, Conmarble provides engineered microcement solutions designed specifically for the Gulf region, ensuring crack-resistant performance even in high-movement areas.
Why Microcement Cracks: The Real Causes
Understanding why cracks occur helps prevent them entirely. Most failures come from issues in the substrate, incorrect preparation, or low-quality materials.
1. Substrate Movement
The most common reason microcement cracks is structural movement under the surface.
Examples include:
Weak or unprepared plaster
Cracked concrete
Hollow tiles
Moisture expansion
Vibrations from heavy usage
If the substrate moves, the surface can crack—no matter what the finishing material is.
This is why Conmarble always reinforces surfaces using:
High-adhesion primers
Fiberglass mesh
Flexible microcement base layers
These steps absorb micro-movements and prevent cracks.
2. Incorrect System Thickness
Microcement should be applied at a maximum of 2–3 mm thickness. Applying too thick or too thin can lead to surface tension cracks.
Correct thickness ensures:
Structural flexibility
Crack resistance
Uniform curing
Long-term surface stability
3. Low-Quality Materials or DIY Application
Not all microcement products are formulated equally. Many low-cost systems lack:
Polymer flexibility
High-density binders
Reinforcement mesh
Strong adhesion properties
Poor application techniques also contribute to cracking, especially when:
The substrate isn’t leveled properly
Moisture is trapped
Layers cure too quickly
Sealers are not applied correctly
High-end finishes demand high-end systems.
4. Humidity and Water Exposure Without Proper Waterproofing
Bathrooms, showers, and wet rooms can cause microcement to crack or detach if waterproofing is not done beforehand.
Conmarble always uses:
A full waterproof membrane
Reinforced base coat
Moisture-resistant primers
This prevents water-related failures.
To learn more about waterproof systems: Read: Is Microcement Waterproof? Everything Architects Need to Know
How Conmarble Prevents Microcement Cracking
With the right methodology, microcement becomes extremely stable. Conmarble’s installation standards ensure maximum durability, even under demanding conditions.
1. Substrate Testing and Preparation
Every project begins with a complete assessment:
Moisture levels
Surface stability
Required leveling
Adhesion testing
Only when the substrate is correct can microcement perform reliably.
2. Reinforced Base Layers with Fiberglass Mesh
This step eliminates 90% of crack risks.
Mesh reinforcement:
Absorbs substrate movement
Prevents micro-fissures
Provides tensile strength
Ensures long-term stability
3. High-Performance Polymer Microcement
Our microcement blends include flexible polymers that adapt to surface movement instead of cracking.
Benefits include:
Greater elasticity
Improved adhesion
Better resistance to temperature changes
Enhanced durability
4. Controlled Application Thickness
Maintaining a precise 2–3 mm thickness prevents internal stress and ensures proper curing.
5. Professional Sealing and Protection
The final sealer layer:
Protects from scratches
Prevents moisture penetration
Increases flexibility
Improves stain resistance
It’s the last—but most important—step for long-term performance.
Is Microcement Crack-Free Forever?
No material is completely crack-proof, but with a correct system and professional installation, microcement becomes extremely durable and resistant to failures.
Most cracks occur only when:
Applied incorrectly
Installed over unstable substrates
Using low-quality materials
With Conmarble’s engineered microcement, cracking is minimized to the lowest possible risk.
Conclusion: Microcement Can Be 100% Stable with the Right System
Microcement is safe, durable, and long-lasting when used with:
A proper installation method
Professional reinforcement
High-quality materials
Careful substrate preparation
When done correctly, microcement outperforms many traditional finishes—especially in modern luxury architecture
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