Microcement is gaining popularity across Malta for its minimalist beauty and unmatched versatility—but many people still ask the same question: can microcement be used outside?
The short answer? Absolutely. And not just in one or two ways. From external facades to patios, pool decks, garden walls, and even stairs, microcement is proving it can hold its own outdoors—both in style and durability.
In this post, we’ll walk you through seven compelling reasons why microcement is a brilliant option for your exterior spaces. Whether you’re designing a stylish terrace in Valletta or updating a seafront villa in Gozo, you’ll find practical answers to help you make the right call.
Let’s dive into the facts.
1. Yes, Microcement Works Outdoors—And Here’s Why | Can Microcement Be Used Outside
If you’re wondering can microcement be used outside, it’s important to understand what makes it suitable for the elements. Microcement is a polymer-modified cement coating applied in ultra-thin layers (just 2–3 mm thick) over nearly any substrate: concrete, tile, plaster, brick—you name it.
But what truly makes it outdoor-friendly is:
Its high adhesion power to diverse surfaces
Its UV-resistant pigmentation and finish options
The application of a special weatherproof sealer to protect against moisture, sun, and temperature swings
When applied by professionals using outdoor-grade sealers, microcement is fully capable of withstanding rain, heat, and sun—making it ideal for Malta’s Mediterranean climate.
So yes, microcement can be used outside—and it can even outperform more traditional finishes like tiles or natural stone in many outdoor applications.
2. Stunning Outdoor Floors Without the Fuss | Can Microcement Be Used Outside
Outdoor flooring in Malta needs to survive a lot—heat, humidity, foot traffic, and salt exposure in coastal areas. With sealed microcement, you’re getting:
A seamless surface with no grout lines or joints to collect dirt and mold
Slip-resistant textures that can be customized during application
Durability against UV rays and light abrasions
A wide range of natural and pigmented finishes
It’s especially popular for:
Garden patios
Outdoor kitchens
Terraces and verandas
Entrance walkways
Unlike tile or wood decking, which may crack, warp, or fade over time, microcement stays smooth and low-maintenance for years—especially with re-sealing every 5–8 years.
Prices for outdoor microcement floors in Malta typically start at around €65 per square meter, depending on size and finish. And since it can be installed over existing surfaces, you save on demolition costs too.
3. Beautiful, Long-Lasting Facades | Can Microcement Be Used Outside
Here’s where microcement really starts to shine. If you’re considering refreshing your home or commercial exterior, microcement offers a sleek, modern facade with weather resistance built in.
When people ask “can microcement be used outside on walls or facades?”, the answer is: yes—and with fantastic results.
Advantages include:
Crack-resistant elasticity, even on large wall areas
A smooth or textured finish that mimics stone, concrete, or natural plaster
Fade-resistant color options designed for sun exposure
Waterproof sealers that protect from rain and moisture damage
Whether you live in a traditional Maltese townhouse or a modern villa overlooking the sea, microcement gives your exterior walls a contemporary look without the maintenance nightmare of painted render or porous stone.
4. A Perfect Fit for Pools and Surrounds | Can Microcement Be Used Outside
Pool areas demand materials that are non-slip, stylish, durable, and resistant to water and chlorine. Sealed microcement checks every one of those boxes.
It can be used on:
Pool surrounds and decks
Pool coping edges
Outdoor showers
Even interior pool basins (with additional waterproof membranes)
The lack of grout lines means there’s less chance of algae and grime buildup, and you can customize the color to match your landscape or pool tiles.
In fact, microcement’s minimal, uniform surface often complements glass mosaic tiles beautifully, creating that high-end spa or resort look—right in your own backyard.
5. Maltese Climate? Microcement Can Handle It | Can Microcement Be Used Outside
Let’s be honest: Malta’s weather isn’t always kind to outdoor surfaces. With intense summer sun, salty air from the sea, humidity in spring and autumn, and the occasional heavy rainfall, not all building materials can cope long-term.
So the question again: can microcement be used outside in Malta specifically?
Yes—and it performs exceptionally well when installed professionally and sealed correctly. Here’s how:
UV-resistant finishes prevent discoloration from the sun
Anti-moisture barriers in sealers stop water penetration
Breathable layers allow for vapor diffusion, preventing peeling or bubbling
Resins and fibers added to the mix improve tensile strength and elasticity
All these qualities combined make microcement ideal for terraces, stairs, balconies, and building exteriors exposed to the elements.
6. Maintenance Is Incredibly Easy | Can Microcement Be Used Outside
One of the most compelling reasons to use microcement outside is how little you need to maintain it.
Here’s what upkeep looks like:
Sweep or rinse occasionally to remove dust or debris
Clean spills with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner
Reapply a protective sealer every few years (depending on foot traffic and UV exposure)
Compare that to natural stone that needs constant cleaning or wood decking that needs sanding and oiling—and microcement is clearly the smarter, more sustainable choice.
Plus, there are no weeds growing in grout lines, no loose tiles, no flaking paint—just one continuous, beautiful surface.
7. Versatility You Can’t Beat | Can Microcement Be Used Outside
Microcement isn’t just for floors or facades—it can be used creatively in countless outdoor applications, including:
Staircases
Built-in benches or planters
Exterior BBQ countertops
Pergola pillars or garden walls
Outdoor fireplaces
Its ability to form curved, seamless, and even sculptural shapes means you’re only limited by imagination.
Want a custom outdoor kitchen counter that matches your terrace floor? Easy. A garden wall that blends perfectly with your pool deck? Done. All in the same material, tone, and finish.
And when it’s time to design, Kibitec is ready to help you bring your outdoor microcement vision to life—from texture samples to installation and finishing.
Quick Comparison: Microcement vs. Traditional Outdoor Materials
Feature | Microcement | Tiles | Stone | Wood Decking |
---|---|---|---|---|
Weatherproof | ✅ (when sealed) | ✅ (with grout) | ✅ (depends) | ❌ (prone to rot) |
UV Resistance | ✅ | ⚠️ (may fade) | ✅ | ❌ |
Maintenance | Low | Medium | High | Very high |
Seamless Finish | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Slip Resistance (optional) | ✅ | ⚠️ (varies) | ⚠️ | ❌ |
Cost (€/m²) | From €65 | €40–€90 | €80–€150 | €50–€100 |
Construction-Grade Quality
When used outdoors, microcement installations must follow construction standards to ensure long-term success. That includes:
Substrate preparation
Crack-bridging meshes or base coats
Drainage planning
Application of suitable sealers for UV and water resistance
It’s not just about the product—it’s about how it’s installed. That’s why working with experienced professionals like Kibitec matters.
For more insight into broader construction processes and materials, explore this construction overview from Wikipedia.
Real Outdoor Projects in Malta That Prove It Works
Let’s bring theory into real-world context. Here are some inspiring ways microcement has already been used outdoors in Malta—and why clients keep coming back for more.
🏡 Seafront Patio in St. Julian’s
A client wanted to transform their exposed patio, often battered by salty air and blazing sun. Tiles had cracked and faded after just a few years. We resurfaced it with textured grey microcement, complete with an anti-slip finish and UV-sealed topcoat. The result? A stylish, weatherproof outdoor lounge that still looks new after two summers.
🧱 Facade Renovation in Naxxar
A traditional Maltese townhouse owner was looking to modernise their front elevation without removing the old stone. We applied microcement over the cleaned surface, blending warm beige tones to complement the original character. Waterproof, breathable, and maintenance-free, it became the envy of the street.
🏊 Pool Surround in Mellieħa
A private villa owner requested a seamless, slip-resistant pool deck that felt modern and would stand up to sun and chlorine. We delivered a custom microcement finish in off-white, sealed with a marine-grade coating. It pairs beautifully with blue pool tiles—and it’s incredibly easy to clean.
These are just a few examples showing how versatile and resilient microcement is when used outside.
FAQ: Can Microcement Be Used Outside?
Let’s cover the most common questions we hear from clients across Malta.
💬 Can microcement be used outside on stairs or steps?
Yes! Outdoor steps often experience the most wear, especially with water exposure and heavy foot traffic. Microcement—when applied with a slip-resistant finish—is an excellent solution for stairs, giving them a smooth yet grippy surface that’s long-lasting and stylish.
💬 Will the colour fade in the sun?
Not if it’s sealed properly. Outdoor microcement is finished with a UV-resistant topcoat that prevents fading. You can choose from a wide variety of earthy neutrals, greys, or custom tones, and they’ll hold up even under the strongest Mediterranean sun.
💬 How long does microcement last outside?
With professional installation and regular maintenance (mainly re-sealing every 5–8 years), outdoor microcement can last 15 years or more. It won’t crack or peel like paint, and it won’t loosen like tiles.
💬 Can I install microcement myself?
While DIY kits exist, we strongly recommend professional application—especially outdoors. Exterior applications must consider substrate prep, drainage, weather exposure, and correct layering. Improper application may lead to bubbling, water damage, or cracking. If you want peace of mind, reach out to Kibitec and let the pros handle it.
Pros and Cons: A Quick Recap
Still on the fence? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide if microcement is right for your outdoor project:
✅ Pros:
Seamless, grout-free finish
Waterproof and UV-resistant when sealed
Works on almost any surface
Slip-resistant options
Minimal maintenance
Modern, elegant look
Customisable colours and textures
Fast installation (no demolition needed)
⚠️ Cons:
Needs professional installation for best results
Sealer must be reapplied every few years
More expensive than basic tiles (starting from €65/m²)
Overall, if you’re looking for a premium, long-term outdoor finish, microcement is well worth the investment.
Microcement vs. Outdoor Paints & Plasters
Some homeowners ask, “Why not just paint or plaster the outside of my home?”
Here’s how they stack up:
Feature | Microcement | Outdoor Paint | Lime Plaster |
---|---|---|---|
Waterproof | ✅ (when sealed) | ⚠️ (needs frequent repainting) | ⚠️ (porous) |
UV Protection | ✅ | ❌ (fades easily) | ⚠️ (may discolour) |
Cracking Resistance | ✅ | ❌ | ⚠️ |
Maintenance | Low | High (peeling, fading) | Medium |
Cost (€/m²) | From €65 | €10–€25 | €25–€50 |
Longevity | 10–15 years | 3–5 years | 5–10 years |
Conclusion: Paint and lime plasters are cheaper up front but require frequent maintenance. Microcement costs more initially, but it lasts longer, looks better, and requires almost no upkeep.
Eco-Friendly Considerations
Microcement isn’t just a trend—it’s a sustainable choice too. Here’s how:
No demolition waste: It can be applied over old tiles, concrete, or plaster
Low thickness: At just 2–3 mm, it reduces material use
Water-based sealers: Many are VOC-free and safe for the environment
Long lifespan: Less waste from replacements or repairs
If you care about sustainable construction, microcement fits beautifully into an eco-conscious project.
Final Verdict: Can Microcement Be Used Outside?
Let’s answer the question one last time:
Can microcement be used outside?
✅ Yes, and it thrives there.
✅ It’s perfect for floors, walls, facades, and pool areas.
✅ It’s waterproof, weather-resistant, stylish, and long-lasting.
Whether you’re designing an alfresco dining space in Marsaxlokk or renovating a hotel terrace in Valletta, microcement offers the performance and aesthetic you need.
Just remember: outdoor applications require the right substrate prep, product selection, and sealing process. That’s why it’s best to work with experienced applicators who understand Malta’s coastal climate, high humidity, and sun exposure.
Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Space?
Whether you’re planning a new patio, an outdoor kitchen, or a poolside lounge, microcement can help you achieve a stunning finish that lasts for years—even in Malta’s tough weather conditions.
At Kibitec, we specialize in custom outdoor microcement installations. From consultation to completion, we provide guidance, samples, expert application, and waterproof sealing to give you complete peace of mind.
📩 Contact us now to get a free consultation for your outdoor project in Malta:
👉 https://kibitec.com/contact-us/