Around 30 billion tons of concrete are used every year, which shows how much we rely on it for our homes and commercial buildings.
Understanding the difference between concrete types is essential for choosing one that aligns with your needs and budget. But if you’re new to the world of concrete, it’s difficult knowing where to start. Maybe that’s why you’re here; you want to learn the difference and are looking for advice on the matter.
Hit the nail on the head? No worries; we’ve got you! Read on for everything you need to know about microcement and polished concrete.
What Is Microcement?
Before answering your microcement questions, it’s important to cover what we mean by the term. This is a decorative material that is often used for interiors and exteriors.
Know, that it contains polymer, cement, minerals, and dry powder, so it’s adhesive. Because of this, you simply apply it over existing walls, saving you a huge amount of time.
Many contractors also love it because learning how to apply microcement is straightforward, and it’s an affordable option.
What Is Polished Concrete?
Polished concrete is made by grinding and honing with abrasives. You can use it to transform old flooring or create your own, depending on your preference. You’ve likely walked over this option when you’re shopping at retail outlets or even catching a plane from a terminal.
Two main advantages of polished concrete are that it’s breathable and moisture-resistant.
Differences Between Microcement vs Polished Concrete
The main difference between the two is the thickness. For instance, one of the pros of microcement is that it’s three millimeters thick, so you can apply it to curved or flat surfaces. In contrast, polished concrete is six millimeters thick, making it a less flexible option.
Another important difference is whether you need expansion joints. One of the main microcement benefits is that it doesn’t expand, so you needn’t use expansion joints for your project. But it’s important to note that polished concrete does need an expansion joint, which could make it harder for you.
Further, you can apply microcoment on an array of surfaces, whether it’s vertical or flat. On the flip side, you can only apply polished cement on specific types, so be mindful of this when planning your DIY project.
Also, microcement is less prone to cracking, which is useful if you’ve installed underfloor heating. But this can be an issue with polished concrete, as it’s the less durable option.
Like with any project, time is an important consideration, especially when you’re preparing the concrete. If you have little time, use microcement, as it only takes 12 hours to set and seven to complete the cure.
In contrast, you must wait 14 days for polished concrete to harden.
Microcement vs Polished Concrete
Hopefully, after reading this post, you know the difference between microcement vs polished concrete.
There are many factors to consider, such as the concrete’s durability and compatibility with surfaces. During your decision, you should also consider the preparation and whether it aligns with your project’s timeframe. Good luck!
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