Forcrete Micro-Quartz Specialty System - INSTALLATION GUIDE:

Quick note: Specialty system is designed for steam showers, countertops, staircases (steps) and any other complex functional surfaces. Unlike, the Wall System where we use acrylic base coats, this spec is fully epoxy based. It can be applied vertically or horizontally vs the Floor System where the base coats can only be put down flat.

BEFORE BEGINNING INSTALLATION

Before materials are applied, inspect the entire installation area carefully.

Check for:

  • Flex, movement or bounce in the substrate

  • Loose, unstable or damaged substrates

  • Large openings around plumbing fixtures

  • Protruding or non-countersunk screws

  • Uneven surfaces, ridges and high points

  • Cracks, voids or damaged board joints

  • Moisture-related concerns

  • Incomplete waterproofing or plumbing work

Any issues that may affect performance should be corrected before installation begins. Photograph and document existing defects and obtain written confirmation from the client where appropriate.

Electric underfloor heating must be tested and commissioned before the microcement installation begins.

All plumbing, drainage, electrical work, substrate boarding and waterproofing-related preparation should be completed before finish installation starts.

The installation area should be:

  • Structurally sound

  • Stable and free from excessive movement

  • Clean and dry

  • Protected from dust and contamination

  • Maintained at a suitable, consistent temperature

  • Properly ventilated without strong direct airflow

  • Free from active water leaks

Do not apply microcement over unstable, contaminated, wet or insufficiently prepared substrates. DO NOT use microcement for filling cracks, gaps, holes or leveling.

Ensure all products are from the correct batch, have been stored appropriately and are within their stated shelf life.

INSTALLATION STEPS

DAY 1:

1. Sand the substrate with 50 grit diamond pads. If applying over tile, grind the surface with 36 grip metal-bonded diamonds using an angle grinder.

2. Vacuum thoroughly.

3. Using Microfiber Roller apply Forprime DPM, broadcast 0.2-0.3 Kiln-dried Sand as you go, let cure for 3-5h depending on the temperature.

4. If using Belt and Braces System, lay Fiberglass Mesh secure in place with no gaps or overlaps using Hot Glue Gun.

5. Using Flexible Steel Trowel apply tinted MicroBase XT (aka Trowel X Base) to fully encapsulate the mesh.

*if using Fast System, broadcast sand into Forprime DPM, let it fully cure for 3-4h, sweep loose sand, sand the surfaces with a 100grit diamond pad, vacuum thoroughly and process to Step #9

*if using Standard System, skip Step #4 and proceed to Step #5.

*pro tip: while the primer is curing, use the time to tint the finish coats.

DAY 2:

6. Sweep up loose sand.

7. Sand the basecoat with 50 grit diamond pads.

8. Vacuum thoroughly.

9. Using Flexible Steel Trowel apply tinted MicroBase XT (aka Trowel X Base)

DAY 3 

10. Sand Microbase XT with a 50 grit diamond pad.

11. Vacuum thoroughly.

12. Using Finishing Trowel apply tinted Micro-Quartz Coarse in Floated Technique

  • If the spec calls for Micro-Quartz Medium or Smooth, you still must install Micro-Quartz Coarse in Floated Technique first. MQM and MQS require the texture from the floated Coarse underneath to produce quality finish. 

DAY 4:

13. Sand Micro-Quartz Coarse with 100 grit diamond pad

14. Vacuum thoroughly

  • If the spec calls Micro-Quartz Medium or Smooth, then using Soft Steel Trowel apply Micro-Quartz Medium or Smooth and let it cure till next day. After which sand it with 200 grit  diamond pad, vacuum thoroughly and proceeding to Step #16 below.

15. Mop the dust off the surface with *dry* Microfiber Mop, remove as much residual dust as possible

16. A. If the finish is matte, then using Microfiber Roller apply 2 coats of  Forshiled 2KWB 4 hours apart

17.B. If the finish is polished, then using Microfiber Roller apply 1 coat of Monoseal and let cure for 4h before using polishing pads to achieve the desired sheen level (200-400-800-1500-3000grit). Vacuum thoroughly. Using Microfiber Cloth or Microfiber Mop apply Forcrete Floor Wax.