Magma Microcement Floor Remediation & Reinstallation – South London

Installation Date: March 2025
Location: South London
Flooring System: Magma Microcement (Epoxy-supported build-up)
Floor Colour: Dark Grey
Client: Private Residential Homeowner

Project Overview
This residential project in South London involved the complete remediation and replacement of a previously installed microcement floor that had failed both visually and structurally.

Working directly with the homeowner, we were appointed to assess the existing floor, address the underlying causes of failure, and deliver a new seamless finish that would not only perform correctly but also elevate the overall character of the home.

The brief was to create a robust, long-lasting floor with the depth and variation associated with a traditional polished concrete finish—while retaining the seamless benefits of microcement.

Initial Condition & Key Challenges
Upon inspection, the existing microcement floor was found to be heavily scratched and marked, with visible cracking across multiple areas. These defects indicated insufficient preparation and a lack of structural reinforcement within the original system.

Rather than attempting surface-level repairs, it was clear that the correct solution was to remove the failed installation entirely and rebuild the floor from a sound, stable base.

The main challenge was ensuring that all movement-related risks were properly addressed before reapplying the decorative finish, to avoid repeating the issues experienced previously.

Preparation & Magma System Build-Up
The existing microcement was mechanically ground back in full, exposing the underlying screed. All cracks were then carefully repaired and stitched to stabilise the substrate and prevent future movement transferring through to the finished surface.

To create a strong and supportive base, a Magma epoxy scratch coat (Bondprime SC) was applied in conjunction with reinforcing mesh. This stage was critical in providing structural integrity and forming a reliable foundation for the subsequent decorative layers.

Once the base had been fully prepared, the Magma microcement finishing coats were applied in a dark grey tone, carefully worked to introduce variation, movement, and texture.

Final Finish & Result
The completed floor delivers a striking, characterful finish that closely resembles a power-floated polished concrete slab, with natural tonal variation and subtle texture throughout.

Despite its refined appearance, the system offers the practical benefits expected from a modern microcement floor seamless, durable, and well-suited to everyday residential use.

The homeowner was extremely pleased with the transformation, particularly the depth and individuality of the finished surface, which now feels both architectural and inviting.

Conclusion
This project is a strong example of how failed microcement installations can be successfully remedied when the correct preparation, materials, and sequencing are applied.

By rebuilding the system properly from the screed upwards, we were able to deliver a floor that not only resolved the original issues but exceeded the client’s expectations in both performance and appearance.