Maintenance of microcement
The maintenance of microcement is something to take into account when you decide to carry out a work or renovation with this type of decorative coating. Although it is true that this is a material that does not require the cleaning or care required by other types of construction materials. From CEMENTEC we have proposed to tell you about each and every one of the aspects that you should take into account, as well as our recommendations, when it comes to knowing how to carry out a magnificent maintenance of microcement from its installation until the passing of the years.
Let’s remember, or put in context for those who still do not know, that microcement must be cared for in a similar way to a natural wood parquet laminate floor. Its daily maintenance should be carried out with water and neutral soap, as well as using a non-abrasive mop or sponge. Never scrub with abrasive products such as metal brushes or scouring pads and never use chlorine or ammonia.
Although this decorative coating is a material that does not lose its effectiveness when applied to surfaces and stands out for its hardness and resistance, it should not be subjected to abrasions, impacts or collisions in order to guarantee its efficiency. Do not drag heavy objects, do not spill liquids on it, or do not step on it dragging stones or grit, are some of the tips to ensure the maintenance of microcement.
How to clean and do the maintenance of microcement
Going a little further into the subject, microcement has a series of qualities in itself, unlike other materials, which make the tasks related to the maintenance of microcement much easier or much simpler. Its impermeability, its resistance to stains or chemical substances and the useful life it can have are such important aspects that they deserve to be discussed separately.
Impermeability and stain resistance properties
Surfaces to which microcement is applied will become waterproof once the corresponding sealing layer has been applied. This layer is made up of a varnish that provides surface protection to the microcement so that the surface does not get wet or change colour. However, prolonged exposure to liquids may cause moisture to seep in over time.
At CEMENTEC we offer two types. One that enhances the cementitious appearance, such as the FINISH FORTE product, and the other, characterised by the absence of joints, which gives a more “lacquered” appearance, as is the case with FINISH FORTE PLUS.
In short, this impermeability will allow the dirt from stains such as water, wine, soft drinks, oil, etc. to be easily removed.
Chemical resistance
Resistance is the word to define this product. All of the above will not be a problem if it is cleaned properly and in a timely manner, with water and neutral soap. In fact, at CEMENTEC we have designed the product LIMP, a specific product for cleaning decorative microcement coatings.
However, some abrasive products can cause a headache and leave stains. Pure bleach, acetone, salfumán or ammonia should be cleaned quickly, as they can damage the protective effect of the sealant.
This also applies to everyday products such as vinegar or lemon juice. Acid should be carefully considered.
Lifetime of ready-to-use microcement
It is also essential to know that, after a few years (regardless of the use of care), the sealing layer of the microcement that makes the decorative coating impermeable will eventually wear away. For this reason, at CEMENTEC we designed the product MANTEN. A natural aqueous wax that favours the maintenance of microcement and avoids (to a certain extent) having to sand and apply a new sealing layer or completely renovate the material.
How to act after the installation of this decorative coating by CEMENTEC
Find out the advice that our own applicators give and that we have come to pass on to you.
How to act during the first 72 hours
You should wait 48 hours from the application of the sealant to be able to walk carefully on the floor. We can even state that it will not be until after 7 days have elapsed when the pavement becomes firm and you can walk on it normally.
The best thing to do is to protect the floor with paper or cardboard, in order to avoid the possible effects of humidity or the appearance of scratches. The temperature should be controlled so that it is above 15 °C at any time of the day.
How to proceed after the first 7 days
Another interesting thing to know is that, in the first 7 days, you should ventilate the rooms and not clean or dampen the microcement. Once the days have passed, it should be cleaned gently using only water. After one month, you can start to use the CEMENTEC LIMP product (made up of water and neutral soap), support heavy objects and even drag them.
How to act after the first month
On that date, the microcement will reach its maximum hardness and resistance, once the critical time for the material to settle has elapsed. Taking all kinds of care and following our recommendations on the maintenance of microcement .