From tiled wall to Concrete effect – paint or Microcement for bathroom and kitchen tiles
Are you searching for paint to go over tiles, or want to know which coating is suitable for bathroom or kitchen tiles? Many people assume that paint is the easiest solution, but in wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, tile paint is rarely durable. Standard paint will eventually peel or discolour.
For a long-lasting result, Microcement (Microcement plaster) applied over tiles is a far better option. It is waterproof, hard-wearing and creates a sleek concrete effect.
From tiled wall to modern Concrete effect
Levelling tiles requires some technical preparation. In bathrooms, it is essential that the wall is completely watertight. Start by checking whether the tiles are still firmly attached. Tap the tiles and listen—if you don’t hear any hollow spots, you can continue.
Clean the tiles thoroughly and allow the wall to dry. Then roughen the tile surface using a sanding machine or router. After that, apply Ardex R1C according to the instructions. Once this layer has dried and the wall is flat, you can start applying Microcement using our Microcement bathroom wall kit.
What if I have a tiled floor?
For floors, also check whether all tiles are solid and free of movement. Next, level the floor with a levelling compound. In bathrooms, always use a cement-based leveller; in other rooms, a gypsum-based leveller is sufficient. Once the floor is smooth, you can apply our Microcement bathroom floor kit.
Paint or Microcement?
Painting over tiles may seem simple, but it is almost always a temporary fix. Microcement or Microcement plaster over tiles provides a durable, moisture-resistant finish that lasts for years. It gives bathrooms or kitchens a modern and sustainable concrete effect—even in demanding, humid environments.
Alles over tegels en betonlook
What do I need for a tiled wall in the bathroom?
The most important step is to level the wall with Ardex R1C. After that, finish the wall with our Microcement bathroom kit for a sleek and waterproof result.
What does it cost to level and finish a bathroom wall with Microcement if I do it myself?
If you’re doing a bathroom wall yourself, the material costs at betonlook.nl are on average between €45 and €55 per m², including Ardex R1C. Our kits contain everything you need to level the wall and finish it with Microcement, including the coating for a fully waterproof result.
Is Concrete plaster over tiles safe and fully waterproof?
Yes. Microcement or concrete plaster over tiles is safe for use in bathrooms and kitchens. When applied correctly, the material is completely waterproof and resistant to moisture, soap and temperature changes. This makes it suitable for both walls and floors in wet areas.