If you’ve ever struggled with scrubbing tile grout in your shower or dreamed of a sleek, seamless bathroom wall that actually stays clean, you’re not alone. One of the most common and exciting trends in modern bathrooms—especially here in Malta—is the use of microcement. And naturally, the big question is: can microcement be used in a shower?
The short answer? Yes, absolutely.
But we’re not just giving you a “yes” and sending you on your way. This article dives deep into the why, the how, and what you can expect if you choose to microcement your shower. Whether you’re building a brand-new bathroom or giving your current space a facelift, this modern material is the smart upgrade your shower needs.
Let’s explore why microcement showers are becoming a go-to for homeowners, designers, and builders across Malta.
1. What Is Microcement—and Why Is It Ideal for Showers? | Can Microcement Be Used In a Shower
Microcement is a decorative, cement-based coating that’s applied in ultra-thin layers (2–3 mm) over virtually any surface—including tile, plaster, concrete, or even drywall. Once applied, it forms a continuous, joint-free finish that’s waterproof, durable, and modern-looking.
So when people ask, can microcement be used in a shower, they’re usually thinking about how it holds up in a wet environment. And that’s exactly where it shines.
Why It Works So Well in Wet Areas:
Waterproof when sealed correctly
No grout joints—means no mould or mildew buildup
Resistant to humidity and temperature changes
Non-slip options available for shower floors
Custom colours and textures to match any design vision
This makes it perfect for Malta’s humid climate, where moisture control is essential in bathrooms—especially in older stone homes where ventilation may be limited.
2. The Benefits of Using Microcement in a Shower | Can Microcement Be Used In a Shower
Now that we’ve established yes, microcement can be used in a shower, let’s dig into the benefits that make it such a powerful material choice.
A. Seamless Finish, No Grout
Grout lines in showers are not just annoying to clean—they’re magnets for bacteria, soap scum, and hard water stains. Microcement eliminates this problem entirely by giving you a continuous surface from floor to ceiling. That means less cleaning, fewer chemicals, and more visual appeal.
B. Waterproof and Humidity Resistant
Microcement’s layered system includes a sealer coat that creates a waterproof barrier, making it ideal for the constant moisture of a shower. It’s not just resistant to water—it’s designed for it.
And with Malta’s coastal climate and salty air, using materials that won’t degrade over time is crucial.
C. Modern, Customisable Aesthetic
Want a warm beige Mediterranean vibe? A sleek, cool grey industrial look? Or maybe something bold and colourful? Microcement comes in a huge variety of finishes and colours to suit every taste.
Plus, the finish can be textured to provide slip-resistance on shower floors—so you get beauty and safety in one product.
D. Long-Term Durability
When applied by professionals, microcement is shock-resistant, scratch-resistant, and built to last. That’s why more architects and homeowners in Malta are choosing it for high-traffic wet areas like bathrooms.
Pro Tip: Choose a professional applicator to ensure proper sealing and waterproofing. DIY isn’t recommended for showers!
3. How Is Microcement Applied in a Shower? | Can Microcement Be Used In a Shower
Applying microcement in a shower isn’t just about slapping on a coat and calling it a day. It’s a multi-layered, professional process that requires attention to detail—especially for waterproofing.
Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Step 1: Surface Preparation
Whether the substrate is tile, cement board, or plaster, it needs to be:
Clean
Dry
Solid (no movement or cracks)
Old tiles? No problem. As long as they’re in good condition and secure, microcement can be applied directly over them after proper cleaning and joint levelling.
Step 2: Priming
A special primer is applied to ensure adhesion between the existing surface and the microcement layers.
Step 3: Waterproofing Membrane (if needed)
In wet areas like showers, a waterproofing membrane or mesh layer may be applied to strengthen and fully seal the base.
Step 4: Microcement Layers
Usually 2–3 layers of microcement are applied using a trowel, each requiring drying time in between. These base and finishing coats give texture, colour, and structure.
Step 5: Sealing
Finally, a polyurethane sealer is applied. This is what makes the microcement 100% waterproof and resistant to detergents, soap, and shampoo.
4. Is It Expensive to Microcement a Shower? | Can Microcement Be Used In a Shower
Now for the million-euro question—how much does it cost to microcement a shower in Malta?
On average, pricing starts around €65 per square metre. The final cost depends on:
Size of the shower
Condition of the surface underneath
Number of corners and niches
Finish type (matte, satin, gloss)
| Shower Type | Approximate Price (Total) |
|---|---|
| Walk-in, 2 walls + floor | €750 – €1,200 |
| Enclosed cubicle (3 walls + floor) | €1,000 – €1,500 |
This includes materials, preparation, and expert application. Compared to tile removal and reinstallation, microcement is often quicker and more cost-effective—plus, you get a more luxurious finish.
5. Where Can I Get Microcement for My Shower in Malta? | Can Microcement Be Used In a Shower
If you’re thinking of upgrading your bathroom and wondering where to start, look no further.
At Kibitec, we provide:
High-quality microcement products
Full-service installation by trained professionals
Custom colours, finishes, and textures
Honest guidance and design advice tailored for Malta’s climate
We can help you turn your existing tiled shower into a modern, seamless, waterproof masterpiece—all without messy demolition.
👉 Contact us today to get a quote or schedule a consultation. Whether you want to buy microcement or book a full-service application, we’ve got you covered.
6. Is It Safe to Use Microcement in a Shower? | Can Microcement Be Used In a Shower
This is an excellent question. Because the surface will be regularly wet and soapy, slip resistance is a valid concern. Thankfully, microcement offers solutions for this as well.
Textured Finishes for Grip
Microcement can be applied with a light texture on floors, giving it anti-slip properties. It’s subtle enough to maintain the minimalist look, but effective enough to make your shower safe.
Bonus: You can also add anti-slip additives to the sealant for extra traction, which is great for family bathrooms or older adults.
7. Construction Standards and Microcement Use | Can Microcement Be Used In a Shower
Worried about whether microcement is compliant with professional construction standards in Malta? Don’t be.
Microcement is widely used across Europe and aligns with European building and material safety standards. Its use in wet areas like showers is supported by its waterproof capabilities, material durability, and resistance to mould.
For more on the general principles of construction, you can check out the basics here.
8. Can I Use Microcement on the Shower Floor? | Can Microcement Be Used In a Shower
Absolutely. In fact, the floor is one of the best places to use microcement in a shower. That said, there are a few extra things to keep in mind when applying microcement underfoot.
Slip Resistance Matters
Microcement shower floors are specially treated with:
Textured finishes to provide natural grip
Anti-slip sealers or additives to further enhance safety
This means your microcement floor can be just as safe—or even safer—than traditional tile, especially when wet. No more slippery tiles or cracked grout. Instead, you get a smooth, secure surface that feels comfortable underfoot and looks incredible.
A Seamless, Unified Look
One major aesthetic advantage? You can create a visually unified shower—floor and walls in the same tone and texture. No cuts, no joints, no visual interruption. The result is a modern spa-like shower that feels expensive, yet requires minimal maintenance.
9. Design Inspirations: Microcement Showers in Malta | Can Microcement Be Used In a Shower
Let’s talk about style, because microcement isn’t just practical—it’s a serious design flex.
If you’re wondering how to style your bathroom or what kind of finishes work well with microcement in a shower, here are a few ideas that are hot in Malta right now:
A. Mediterranean Minimalism
Use warm beige or off-white microcement tones on walls and floors, and combine them with light wooden shelves or gold/brushed brass fixtures. The result? A calming space that reflects both modern minimalism and traditional Maltese tones.
B. Industrial Chic
Grey or charcoal microcement paired with matte black taps and glass partitions creates a bold, urban look. Add in LED lighting in niches for a dramatic edge.
C. Earthy + Organic
Go for terracotta or olive-toned microcement. Mix it with natural stone, plants, and bamboo accents to create a spa-like retreat that feels rooted in nature.
D. Luxury Onyx Tones
Microcement in dark hues like slate or anthracite offers a sophisticated, high-end look. Ideal for high-contrast bathrooms with white ceramic sinks and large mirrors.
Remember, microcement is completely customisable. Whether you want it matte, satin, or glossy, in light or dark tones, Kibitec can help you achieve the finish that fits your vision.
10. Before and After: Real Shower Renovations | Can Microcement Be Used In a Shower
Let’s take a look at what microcement can do with a few real-world transformations—right here in Malta.
Case 1: Outdated Tiles to Seamless Sophistication
Before: A typical 90s bathroom with brown tiles, chunky borders, and dated chrome.
After: Soft grey microcement over the entire shower area—walls, floor, and built-in bench. A glass panel separates the wet zone, and black matte fixtures complete the look. The whole room feels bigger and brighter.
Case 2: Busy Patterns to Calm Minimalism
Before: Patterned tiles that clash with modern decor and take hours to clean.
After: Off-white microcement in matte finish with integrated wall niches and flush-mounted lighting. The new look is clean, elegant, and timeless.
Case 3: Waterproofing Fix for a Leaky Shower
Before: Old grout failing and tiles letting in water behind the walls.
After: Tiles sealed with primer, microcement layers applied, finished with a waterproof polyurethane seal. The result? Zero leaks, modern style, and less maintenance.
11. Microcement vs Tiling: Which Is Better for Your Shower? | Can Microcement Be Used In a Shower
| Feature | Microcement | Traditional Tiles |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproofing | ✔️ Seamless with proper sealing | ✔️ Grout can weaken over time |
| Style | ✔️ Modern, seamless, fully customisable | ✔️ Pattern variety, but with joints |
| Maintenance | ✔️ Easy to clean, no grout lines | ❌ Requires grout cleaning & upkeep |
| Installation Time | ✔️ Faster, no demolition of tiles | ❌ Slower, especially with tile removal |
| Lifespan | ✔️ 10–15 years with proper care | ✔️ 10+ years, grout may need redoing |
| Cost (Malta Average) | From €65/m² | From €50–€80/m² depending on tile type |
If you’re aiming for a premium, modern look and want to minimise future maintenance, microcement wins—especially for busy households and humid Maltese homes.
12. How to Care for Microcement in Your Shower | Can Microcement Be Used In a Shower
So you’ve made the decision (or you’re seriously considering it). Let’s talk about keeping that surface looking pristine for years to come.
Basic Cleaning Tips
Use pH-neutral cleaning products
Avoid bleach, acids, or abrasive scrubs
Use a soft cloth or sponge—no steel wool
Long-Term Maintenance
Reapply sealer every 2–3 years depending on use
Wipe down excess water to avoid build-up of soap or limescale
Fix small chips or scratches quickly—contact your installer for repair
The overall care is far less intensive than tiles. No more scrubbing grout lines or replacing mouldy silicone. Just easy, straightforward cleaning.
13. Can Microcement Be Used in a Shower with Built-In Niches or Benches?
Yes, and this is where microcement really shines.
Because it forms a continuous coating over any shape, it’s ideal for showers with:
Built-in benches
Wall niches for shampoo and soap
Curved or angular corners
There’s no need to cut and align tiles or worry about grouting around odd shapes. Everything is coated in one continuous layer, making it look integrated, elegant, and clean.
This is particularly helpful in custom bathrooms or small spaces in Malta, where functionality and design often need to merge seamlessly.
14. Is Microcement the Future of Showers in Malta?
Based on growing trends, yes. More and more homeowners, interior designers, and construction professionals are ditching tiles in favour of microcement.
Why?
It eliminates long-term maintenance headaches
It matches modern design trends perfectly
It performs well in Malta’s humid, salt-heavy coastal air
It adds value to a property by creating a designer-level finish
And unlike tiles that may feel dated in 5–10 years, microcement offers a timeless, high-end aesthetic that still feels fresh a decade later.
15. Final Verdict: Can Microcement Be Used in a Shower?
Let’s bring it all together. If you’re still wondering, can microcement be used in a shower, here’s the definitive answer:
✅ Yes, it can—and it should.
With its waterproof nature, customisable style, and easy maintenance, microcement is not only suitable for showers—it excels there. Whether you’re renovating an old tiled space or building from scratch, microcement offers a modern solution that saves time, looks amazing, and holds up beautifully.
Ready to Upgrade Your Shower?
At Kibitec, we’re proud to help homeowners across Malta transform their bathrooms with professional microcement services. Whether you want to buy the product or book the full application, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
📞 Let’s bring your dream bathroom to life!
👉 Contact us today for a free consultation or a tailored quote.
Modern, waterproof, and grout-free showers are just a click away.
