Yellostone microtopping
Microtopping pros and cons
What it does well, what it asks of you, and the flaw a cement-free microtopping does not have.
Microtopping, often called microcement, is a decorative mineral coating 2 to 3 mm thick, smoothed with a trowel and protected by varnish. Here are its real strengths, its microcement disadvantages, and the answer to the most common complaint: cracking.
The advantages
- A continuous, seamless surface: from floor to wall, from shower to worktop, there are no grout lines left to clean.
- Goes over what is already there: 2 to 3 mm is enough, over a screed, a painted surface, plasterboard or prepared tiles. No removal, no rubble.
- Anywhere in the home: floors, walls, bathrooms and showers, worktops and stairs, including over underfloor heating.
- Hard-wearing: Yellostone microtopping is rated U3 P3 E3 C2 for floors (the French UPEC classification) and Bfl-s1 for reaction to fire (EN 13501-1).
- 120 shades at the same price, and a one-off finish: your technique gives a grained, shaded or more textured effect.
- Easy upkeep: water and a mild soap.
The disadvantages
- Application takes care and time. Primer, three coats with their sanding, two coats of varnish: 4 to 5 days on site, then 7 days before normal use, and no application below 10 °C. A careful DIYer can manage it, after a test. See our application guide.
- The substrate has to be prepared. Over tiles, the grout lines are filled with a skim to zero, otherwise they show through. Solid wood is best avoided, and substrate moisture must not exceed 5%.
- It does not repair a substrate that moves. A cracked slab or a floor that flexes must be dealt with before application: microtopping follows its substrate.
- The varnish needs upkeep. Allow for a fresh coat every 3 to 5 years, depending on footfall, and avoid harsh products.
- On a worktop, protect it: use a chopping board and a trivet, as you would on any worktop.
- Every surface is unique. The finish depends on your technique, so no two jobs look exactly alike. A charm for some, a drawback if you want a perfectly uniform look.
What about cracks?
This is the most common complaint about microtopping. Most microtoppings and microcements are cement-based: as the layer dries, it shrinks, and that shrinkage opens hairline cracks, sometimes several weeks after application.
Yellostone microtopping is cement-free: its mineral binder does not shrink, and it does not crack on a sound, properly prepared substrate. See why cement-free microtopping does not crack.
Microtopping or tiles?
Tiles have grout lines, which get dirty; microtopping has none. And it goes over old tiles without breaking them up: see microtopping over tiles.
What does it cost?
Yellostone microtopping is sold by the m², with every shade at the same price. For the details, delivery included, see microtopping prices per m².
What surfaces can microtopping go on?
| Substrate | Application | Main condition |
|---|---|---|
| Cement screed or slab | Suitable | Sound, dry, stable and prepared substrate |
| Underfloor heating | Suitable, following the protocol | Heating run beforehand, stability, movement joints respected |
| Existing tiles | Possible after inspection | Adhesion, stability, sanding and the right primer |
| Plasterboard on walls | Suitable | Rigid boards, treated joints and preparation |
| Wood or wood-based panels | Suitable except solid wood | Dimensional stability and sound assembly (screwed and glued) |
| Terracotta or damp substrate | Not recommended on substrates soaked deep with old oil or wax. Max. moisture 5% | Surface and moisture check required beforehand |
Frequently asked questions
What are the disadvantages of microtopping?
Careful application over 4 to 5 days, a well-prepared substrate, and a varnish to renew every 3 to 5 years, depending on footfall. Cement-based microcement can also crack; Yellostone microtopping, which is cement-free, does not.
Does microtopping crack?
Cement-based microcement can crack as it shrinks. Yellostone microtopping is cement-free: on a sound, properly prepared substrate, it does not crack.
Is microtopping hard-wearing?
Yes. It is rated U3 P3 E3 C2 for floors (French UPEC classification), for homes and for shops with heavy footfall alike, and Bfl-s1 for reaction to fire (EN 13501-1).
Is microtopping hard to maintain?
No: water and a mild soap are enough. Avoid harsh products, and renew the varnish every 3 to 5 years, depending on footfall.
Can I apply microtopping myself?
Yes, a careful DIYer can: the product is ready to use. Allow 4 to 5 days and do a test first. For a walk-in shower, a trained applicator is recommended.