How to DIY a microcement backsplash for a cool, budget kitchen upgrade
If you love a luxurious look for a kitchen but can’t afford marble or engineered stone, why not create a DIY microcement backsplash to transform your cooking area without splashing the cash?
Sure, kitchen countertops have always been big business as they are often the shining star of kitchen decor. These days, however, surface-level countertops aren’t enough: it’s really all about the splashback.
When you are looking for kitchen backsplash ideas, bigger really seems to be better. Backsplashes often run the full length of the worktop, extending much higher up the wall than ever before (goodbye flimsy 50mm splashbacks), often culminating in a floating ledge shelf made of the same material as the worktop and backsplash consists.
(Image credit: Claire Douglas)
DIY microcement backsplash: step by step
You heard it here first, microcement is not a passing trend. Microcement worktops look fantastic and this durable and adaptable material is the answer to many DIY dilemmas. A DIY microcement kit offers dedicated DIYers the opportunity to go a step further than just designing the furnishings of their dream home, as they can now do the construction phase as well.
Fancy a new kitchen? Are you in the mood for a chic coffee table but can’t afford the designer price? You guessed it, grab the microcement! Sounds too good to be true, right? Not correct! I’ll go one step further than just telling you about the benefits of this wonderful material, I’ll show you exactly what you can do with my step-by-step guide on how to microcement a backsplash yourself.
you will need
1. 2 clean buckets – you can choose ones that have already been used recycled materials like this (opens in new tab)
2. Durable foam roller with spare heads
3. Multipurpose painters tape
4. Protective gloves
5. Flexible trowel or spatula
6. Moisture resistant MDF or plywood for your base
7. Random Orbital Sander With Choice Of Grit Pads – Amazon makes good deals (opens in new tab)
8. Protective mask
9. Microcement Kit – I got mine from concrete laboratory (opens in new tab)
10. Microcement sealant
11. Sealant for the connection between splash guard and countertop
12. Measuring cup
13. Paint mixing attachment for drill like this (opens in new tab) (or similar means of electrical mixing)
14. Stamens
Whether or not you’ve tiled a backsplash before, DIYers of most levels will be able to handle this project. As with any home improvement project, take your time, wear necessary safety equipment, and always read the manual of any power tool you use.
Step 1: Build your base
(Image credit: Claire Douglas)
The great thing about microcement is that it can be applied to many surface types as long as you use the primer that comes with it. The ability to use moisture-resistant MDF as a base opens up a world of possibilities for your backsplash project, as you can decide the height, width, shape and depth.
I decided on a rectangular panel that would wrap around the shape of the wall and cut out the shape required for the sockets we had. As this project was part of a DIY kitchen remodel, the wall behind was not in good condition as tiles and top kitchen units had been removed and electrical outlets relocated. After I filled the holes, it was especially handy to be able to cover up those imperfections with my backsplash base.
I glued the panel to the wall with grip glue as there was a large flat surface which was great for maximum adhesion. I upcycled an old picture shelf by turning it upside down and cutting it into pieces to create a ledge shelf.
I sealed the connection along the base of the newly designed splashback to ensure no moisture could seep through and get under or behind the splashback or countertop.
(Image credit: Claire Douglas)
Step 2: Gather your microcement materials
You will need a few tools and materials for a microcement project and these really need to be on hand as time is of the essence once you have mixed your batch of microcement so it pays to get organized beforehand.
It’s important that your tools and buckets are clean, so check before you start mixing.
Step 3: Prime your surface
(Image credit: Claire Douglas)
The DIY kit I use has a primer that you mix with water. It’s easy to apply and means the microcement will stick to your substrate. Apply the primer generously with a foam paint roller. If you are only covering the backsplash with microcement, tape along the countertop join to create a clean line and keep countertops clean and free of primer and microcement.
Step 4: Mix the microcement
Mix the microcement in a clean bucket according to the manufacturer’s instructions and leave for the required time. When the mixture starts to set, add more liquid by following the directions that came with the kit.
Step 5: Apply the first layer
(Image credit: Claire Douglas)
Using a flexible paint tool, begin applying the microcement to the top of your mudguard. Always start at the top and work your way down, this way any drips, runs or splashes won’t ruin the area underneath. Don’t panic if you drip onto an already covered area as you can usually smooth the surface while wet or sand down the imperfections once dry.
Working across and down, load your spreader with a small amount of microcement and use firm pressure and sweeping motions to make it adhere to the backsplash base with a thickness of 1-2mm.
Since I wanted a continuous microcement surface, I continued onto the countertop, but you could stop at the joint where your masking tape indicates.
Once you have completed the entire area and are happy with the coverage, allow to dry for 24 hours or the time specified in the instructions.
Step 6: Sand the first layer
When the first coat has dried, lightly sand down any obvious surface lumps or bumps. Wear a dust mask and ideally use a grinder with a dust collector or vacuum connection to prevent airborne concrete dust particles as these can be harmful if inhaled.
This layer will actually be covered by the second layer, so you don’t have to spend too much time getting it perfect. The goal here is to ensure that there are no major imperfections that will show through the final finish.
Remember that the layer is thin so do not apply strong pressure with the sander or overwork the area as this could cause damage. When you are happy with the finish, vacuum and dust ensuring the surface is clean and dust free before proceeding with the next primer.
Step 7: Prime again
(Image credit: Claire Douglas)
Mix up another batch of primer and apply to the area you just covered with microcement. While the primer dries, mix your next batch of microcement using the same process as before.
Step 8: Apply the second layer
(Image credit: Claire Douglas)
The second layer of microcement should be applied in the same way as the first. By now you’ve probably developed a knack for it and your own system for loading the spreader and attaching it to the bulkhead. Pay close attention to the quality of the finish on this layer as you will be spending a lot of time looking at it. Apply even pressure with the spreader and get the surface as smooth and flat as possible. This not only saves time and effort when sanding, but also means the end result will be a polished concrete look.
Step 9: Final Sanding
(Image credit: Claire Douglas)
Once the second coat has dried, lightly sand to desired smoothness. Work the grinder in small, circular motions and apply even pressure. Failure to sand evenly can result in an uneven final texture that will be more visible after the splash guard is sealed. As before, remember to wear a mask and collect the dust from the grinder.
Step 10: Seal your microcement splash guard
(Image credit: Claire Douglas)
Clean the splash guard, make sure there is no dust on the surface, and apply sealer to make it waterproof and food safe.
Once sealed, admire your funky new kitchen addition, and when you’ve caught the microcement bug, start planning your next project!