Microcement is quickly becoming one of Malta’s most sought-after finishes for both residential and commercial interiors—and for good reason. It’s seamless, durable, low-maintenance, and stylish. But one of the most common questions people ask is: can you microcement over drywall?
The answer? Yes, of course—and not only is it possible, but it’s also highly recommended in many renovation scenarios.
In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about applying microcement over drywall, including the benefits, process, costs, and why it could be the game-changer your project needs.
Let’s dive into 5 powerful reasons why microcement and drywall are a match made in renovation heaven.
1. Yes, You Can Microcement Over Drywall—And It’s Surprisingly Easy | Can You Microcement Over Drywall
Before we go deeper, let’s get one thing straight: Yes, you can microcement over drywall. And in fact, drywall is one of the best substrates for microcement applications because it’s smooth, lightweight, and doesn’t require demolition or heavy prep work.
Drywall (also known in Malta as gypsum board or plasterboard) is common in both residential and commercial interiors. It’s especially popular for internal partitions and false ceilings.
Here’s why microcement works so well on drywall:
Smooth and uniform surface makes for excellent adhesion
No need to rip out or demolish anything
Compatible with vertical and overhead applications
Works on both new builds and renovations
So, whether you’re remodeling your living room in Sliema or upgrading your commercial showroom in Valletta, microcement over drywall offers a clean and modern solution.
What About Moisture?
Drywall isn’t typically waterproof—but that doesn’t mean microcement isn’t an option. When sealed correctly with a polyurethane or epoxy finish, microcement creates a waterproof layer, making it suitable for areas like:
Bathrooms
Powder rooms
Kitchens
Indoor splash zones
You just need to make sure the drywall is moisture-resistant or treated accordingly before application begins.
2. Quick, Clean, and Minimal Disruption | Can You Microcement Over Drywall
One of the biggest advantages of using microcement is that it allows for minimal-disruption renovations. This is particularly important in Malta, where space is often at a premium and where quick renovations are in demand due to the booming real estate and hospitality sectors.
Unlike tiles or heavy wall finishes, microcement:
Requires no demolition
Produces minimal dust or debris
Can be completed in 3 to 5 days (depending on project size)
Doesn’t require large crews or loud machinery
If you’re wondering can you microcement over drywall without turning your home into a dusty worksite, the answer is absolutely yes. The process is remarkably tidy and often quicker than paint or wallpaper jobs.
This makes it an ideal option for:
Hotels and short-term rental units that can’t afford long downtime
Office spaces needing modern upgrades over the weekend
Homeowners wanting to skip the mess and get on with life
And let’s not forget—you save money on demolition and cleanup. For reference, removing and replacing drywall in Malta can cost anywhere from €25–€50 per square metre. Applying microcement over existing drywall skips all that.
3. A Seamless, Modern Look That Elevates Your Space| Can You Microcement Over Drywall
One of microcement’s most celebrated characteristics is its ability to deliver a continuous, joint-free surface. When applied over drywall, it creates an ultra-sleek and contemporary finish—something you simply can’t achieve with paint or wallpaper.
Because drywall is already flat and smooth, microcement spreads evenly, enhancing its natural texture and sheen. The result? A sophisticated look that feels both minimal and luxurious.
Popular Use Cases on Drywall in Malta:
Feature walls in open-plan kitchens and living rooms
Bathroom walls (with the right sealing)
Commercial interiors like showrooms, restaurants, and boutique hotels
Ceilings with integrated lighting and soft texture
With colour options ranging from earthy neutrals to bold industrial greys, you can tailor the microcement to match any design style—whether it’s coastal chic in Gozo or urban minimalism in Msida.
Added Bonus: No Joints, No Maintenance
Let’s be honest: joints and grout lines are a pain. They attract dust, mildew, and are visually distracting. With microcement over drywall, those problems disappear. The jointless application makes cleaning and maintenance far easier—especially important in Malta’s humid environment.
4. Durable, Lightweight, and Long-Lasting| Can You Microcement Over Drywall
Here’s where some people hesitate: “Is microcement strong enough to last on drywall?”
The short answer: yes—as long as it’s applied properly.
Microcement is made from cement, resins, additives, and mineral pigments, creating a strong and flexible material that performs excellently over smooth substrates like drywall. It doesn’t add much weight—usually less than 3mm in total thickness—yet it delivers impressive results in terms of strength and durability.
How Durable Is It?
Once sealed:
It becomes scratch-resistant
It can handle minor impacts
It resists UV damage, meaning colours won’t fade
It creates a moisture barrier (critical for humid rooms)
Drywall itself may not be load-bearing, but microcement adds a protective outer layer that not only looks good—it also reinforces the surface.
In Malta’s mixed climate—humid in summer, cool in winter—materials need to withstand some wear and tear. Microcement excels here, especially compared to alternatives like paint or wallpaper that can peel or fade over time.
Cost vs Longevity
While applying microcement over drywall costs around €65 to €110 per square metre in Malta, it often lasts 10–15 years or more with minimal upkeep. That’s a smart long-term investment for both homeowners and property developers.
5. Design Freedom Without Structural Hassle| Can You Microcement Over Drywall
When people ask can you microcement over drywall, they’re often thinking in practical terms. But don’t overlook the creative advantages. Microcement gives you tremendous freedom when it comes to visual design.
Because it’s applied in layers and hand-finished, each wall becomes a unique canvas. You can create:
Textured finishes
Matte or glossy looks
Marble-style effects
Stone or concrete aesthetics
Custom colours to match your palette
This is a huge win for designers and homeowners in Malta who want something different than standard tiles or paint. Whether you’re building a rustic stone-style wall in your Marsaxlokk dining room or giving your St. Julian’s apartment an industrial makeover, microcement opens creative doors.
Best of all? You get that design flexibility without major construction. (By the way, if you’re curious about broader applications of microcement in the construction industry, it’s making waves globally thanks to its eco-friendliness and adaptability.)
Want to Upgrade Your Drywall With Microcement in Malta?
We’ve got you covered.
At Kibitec, we specialise in professional microcement installation over drywall, tiles, concrete, and more. Whether you need a sleek bathroom wall, an elegant ceiling, or a dramatic feature wall, we can bring your vision to life—with no demolition and minimal mess.
👉 Ready to transform your space? Contact us today for a free consultation.
4. Maintenance Is Incredibly Simple| Can You Microcement Over Drywall
When it comes to finishes on drywall, most people assume maintenance is either tedious or expensive. That’s where microcement changes the game.
Once sealed, microcement is:
Water-resistant
Stain-resistant
Scratch-resistant
All of which makes it perfect for active households or busy commercial spaces in Malta. Dust, spills, and grime wipe away with just a mild soap-and-water solution—no fancy chemicals or deep scrubbing required.
Plus, since microcement forms a seamless surface, there are no grout lines or crevices where mould or mildew can grow. That’s especially important in Malta’s humid environment, where traditional wall finishes often fail.
Pro Cleaning Tip:
If you want to go the extra mile, Kibitec offers a special microcement cleaner that’s designed to extend the life and shine of your surface. Contact us here to order yours.
5. A Stylish Finish That Transforms Any Room| Can You Microcement Over Drywall
Drywall is functional—but let’s face it, it’s not particularly exciting on its own. Microcement, on the other hand, adds an entirely new dimension of style and sophistication.
Design Benefits When You Microcement Over Drywall:
Seamless, smooth appearance with a modern flair
Available in a wide range of colours and textures
Can mimic natural stone, polished concrete, or raw industrial looks
Easily integrates into both classic and contemporary Maltese interiors
Whether you’re upgrading a commercial storefront in Valletta or modernising a rental apartment in St. Julian’s, microcement over drywall turns an ordinary wall into a striking design feature.
And because it’s a thin application, it doesn’t interfere with room proportions or door/window fittings.
What About Cost?| Can You Microcement Over Drywall
Let’s talk about what everyone really wants to know—how much does it cost to microcement over drywall in Malta?
Average Price Range:
€65 to €120 per square metre
Cost varies depending on:
Size of the project
Type of finish
Preparation requirements
Accessibility of the space
If the drywall is new, clean, and properly primed, the process is quicker and more affordable. On older walls that need fixing or additional treatment, your installer may need to apply a microcement-compatible primer to ensure full adhesion.
Still, when compared to alternatives like tiles, wood panels, or plaster with paint, microcement often ends up more cost-effective long-term due to its:
Lower maintenance costs
Longer lifespan
Superior resistance to damage
Can You Microcement Over Drywall in Kitchens or Bathrooms?| Can You Microcement Over Drywall
Yes—microcement is absolutely suitable for moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens when applied properly over drywall.
Key Considerations:
In wet zones, the drywall should be moisture-resistant (green board) or protected by a water-repellent layer before applying microcement.
A high-quality sealer should always be used to waterproof the surface.
Joints and screw heads on the drywall must be properly reinforced and smoothed to prevent cracking.
When done right, it creates a seamless, cleanable, and ultra-modern finish perfect for:
Shower enclosures
Backsplashes
Kitchen walls and island surrounds
Sustainability Bonus: Why Microcement Over Drywall Is Eco-Friendly| Can You Microcement Over Drywall
In today’s eco-conscious Malta, many homeowners are looking for building solutions that align with environmental values. Applying microcement over drywall avoids the need for demolition or excess material use.
Eco-Friendly Points:
Minimal waste compared to tiling
No demolition required
Long lifespan reduces the need for frequent replacements
Low-VOC materials available
It’s a smart choice for green building projects, commercial renovations, or anyone who wants their home upgrades to leave a smaller environmental footprint.
And because it pairs well with drywall—already a lightweight and recyclable material—you’re creating a surface system that’s both modern and mindful.
Final Thoughts: Should You Apply Microcement Over Drywall?| Can You Microcement Over Drywall
By now, the answer to can you microcement over drywall should be clear—yes, you absolutely can.
It’s durable, beautiful, low-maintenance, and works on both residential and commercial walls throughout Malta. From traditional homes in Mdina to sleek offices in Birkirkara, it offers a future-proof finish that outperforms paint and standard plaster in nearly every category.
Plus, when installed by professionals like Kibitec, you’re getting expertise, quality materials, and a custom design tailored to your needs.
Get Expert Help Today
Want to turn your drywall walls into seamless works of art? Whether you’re planning a bathroom upgrade or a full-scale construction project, Kibitec is here to help.
We offer tailor-made microcement solutions in Malta and Gozo, including over drywall, tiles, wood, and more.
👉 Contact us today to request a quote or speak to one of our microcement specialists.
Let’s transform your space—easily, stylishly, and professionally.
