How Microcement Adhesion Works — And What Makes It Durable

One of the biggest advantages of microcement — especially premium systems like X-Bond — is its ability to bond directly to almost any substrate. This means you can remodel existing surfaces without the need for demolition, making renovations that much easier and faster.

Whether you’re resurfacing tiles, concrete, or morel the secret to X-Bond’s durability lies in the science of adhesion.

This is not just about “sticking” to a surface. It’s about creating a permanent molecular bond that allows our microcement to perform for decades without delaminating.

Learn More: Remodel Without Removal

Why is adhesion important?

Adhesion determines how well microcement integrates with the existing surface beneath it. A poor bond can lead to cracking, lifting, or delamination — problems that simply don’t occur when X-Bond is installed correctly by trained applicators.

Once cured, the bond between X-Bond and your substrate is so strong that the two materials expand and contract together, maintaining integrity under foot traffic, temperature changes, and daily wear.

How can X-Bond Microcement be installed over existing substrates?

The key to long-term performance is what happens on a microscopic level. The complete X-Bond system combines advanced polymer chemistry, surface science, and mechanical adhesion to achieve an unbreakable connection between layers through:

Preparation

It starts with the surface preparation. The substrate — whether tiles, concrete, or another surface — is meticulously cleaned to remove oils, dust, or sealants. This step exposes a “pure” surface for the microcement to bond with.

Stabilisation

In wet or high-traffic areas, a liquid waterproof membrane is added beneath the system. This not only prevents moisture ingress but also absorbs micro-movements for anti-fracture protection, reducing stress on the surface and preventing cracks over time.

Grinding

Depending on the substrate, a light grind or abrasion may be used to create microtexture. This provides the first layer of mechanical grip that the polymers can latch onto.

Cross-Linking Technology

X-Bond uses a proprietary Cross-Linking Technology, which chemically bonds its polymers to the base surface. As it cures, the microcement’s molecules interlock with the substrate’s, forming a flexible yet incredibly strong network.

Because X-Bond microcement doesn’t rely purely on surface tension or glue-like adhesion, its durability is extraordinary. The cross-linked polymers, flexible structure, and seamless finish combine to resist delamination, impact, and environmental stress.

This is why you’ll find X-Bond still performing flawlessly in projects completed over 20 years ago — from residential projects to commercial spaces. The adhesion isn’t just strong; it’s engineered to last the lifetime of the substrate beneath it.

Other benefits of X-Bond include…

Microcement’s scientific strength translates directly into practical advantages:

• Long-Term Durability – the bond maintains its integrity through thermal expansion and movement.

• Versatility – applies to tile, concrete, plaster, or even joinery surfaces.

• Seamless Beauty – no grout lines, no cracking, just smooth, continuous finishes.

• Low Maintenance – no peeling, flaking, or water damage over time.

• Ease – surfaces are renewed, not demolished, reducing project downtime and labor

• Sustainability — lack of demolition means less waste and lower environmental impact.

Interested in microcement? Learn more in our Microcement Informatino Hub

Which substrates are suitable?

Microcement systms perform best when applied to the right kind of substrate — one that is hard, stable, and even. These characteristics allow the chemistry to interact uniformly and form a strong, lasting bond.

Suitable substrates include:

• Concrete

• Tiles

• Stone

• Sheeting

• Plaster

• Villaboard & Blue Board

• Ply

• MDF and solid timber

• Cement Sheeting

• Laminate

• Dense, non-porous composites

However, even with the best chemistry, the best coatings or treatments can only perform as well as the surface they’re applied to. The precision of surface preparation is really important.

If the existing substrate is damaged, uneven, contaminated, or prone to significant movement, it can compromise adhesion and performance. Anything from hairline fractures to microscopic residues — like oils, light moisture, or dust — can prevent proper bonding and lead to premature failure.

Proper cleaning, repairs, and levelling ensure the chemistry interacts with the substrate as intended.

Learn More: Everything You Need to Know About Concrete Resurfacing

Before: Stairs Needing Resurfacing

After: New X-Bond Microcement Flooring & Stairs

Through advanced polymer bonding and precise installation, X-Bond Microcement delivers the kind of durability that sets it apart from ordinary coatings or finishes.

If you’re exploring microcement in your home or commercial project and are based in the US, you can trust SEMCO to help you achieve a seamless, enduring finish backed by the science of adhesion. Get in touch with our team to inquire about X-Bond.