Microtopping is a thin layer of cement based material that goes over existing concrete to give it a clean smooth finish without needing to tear the old floor out. It is only a few millimetres thick but once it is properly bonded it can completely change the look of the surface.
It is a solid option when the concrete underneath is still in good shape but the top is worn stained or just looking tired. The floor gets cleaned and sometimes lightly ground to help the microtopping grip. Then it is trowelled on in thin layers and once it sets you can leave it natural, seal it, stain it or even polish it depending on the look you want. It works well both indoors and out and is a tidy way to give an old floor a new life without the mess of pouring fresh concrete.
Yes you can apply microtopping over existing concrete as long as the base is solid and not falling to bits. It will not fix structural problems but if the surface is just worn stained or rough it is a good way to bring it back to life. The concrete needs to be clean, dry and sound with no loose bits or deep cracks.
Sometimes the floor gets a light grind or a primer to help the microtopping stick properly. Once the prep is done it gets trowelled on in thin layers to build up a fresh surface. It sticks tight if the job is done right and once it is down you can finish it however you like. It is a tidy way to cover up tired concrete without having to dig it all out and start over.
A microtopping layer is usually between two and three millimetres thick so it is thin enough to go over existing concrete without messing up floor levels or needing major adjustments to doors and thresholds. Despite being thin it bonds tight and gives a fresh new surface that can be sealed polished or left with a natural finish.
It is not meant to build up height or level out big dips so the concrete underneath still needs to be fairly even. Think of it more like a skim coat that refreshes the top without changing the shape of the floor.
Yes you can polish or seal a microtopping but it depends on the type you are using and the finish you want. Some microtoppings are made to be polished and can be brought up to a nice smooth shine if they are laid down right and given time to cure properly. Others are better left with a more natural or textured finish and just sealed to protect the surface.
Sealing is always a good idea no matter the finish. It helps lock out stains moisture and dirt and keeps the surface looking fresh longer. You can go with a matte satin or gloss sealer depending on the look you are after. Just make sure the microtopping has fully cured before sealing or polishing or you risk pulling it up or dulling the finish.
Microtopping does not affect existing underfloor heating as long as it is applied properly. Since it is only a few millimetres thick it will not block the heat from coming through the floor. In fact it works well with heating because it sits close to the surface and warms up quickly.
The key is making sure the concrete underneath is sound and that the heating system is not damaged during surface prep. Light grinding or cleaning should not be a problem but care needs to be taken if any deeper work is done. Once applied and sealed the microtopping will transfer heat just like a standard concrete finish without any noticeable difference.
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