FAQ

Learn the answers to some of the frequently asked questions (FAQ) regarding Finer Surfaces micro topping products and applications.  Simply click on a question below.

 

  • What is a micro topping?

    Concrete micro toppings are high strength polymer modified concrete systems characterized by their thickness or lack thereof. Typically these materials are installed at 3-5 mm.

  • Where can the micro toppings be used?

    On floors, walls, countertops, furniture, showers, in spas, in swimming pools, stairs on virtually any surface for interior or exterior. Our micro toppings can be installed on top of brick, block, concrete, prefabricated concrete, wood, cement fiber board, tile, stone, granite, marble, drywall and more.

  • Can I coat tiles with Finer Surfaces material without removing the tiles first?

    Yes, due to our high strength bonding agents our products can be applied on any stable surface, including very slick surfaces such as ceramic tile. Not having to remove tiles before our application saves time, money and renovation mess.

  • Can Finer Surfaces systems be installed on wood floors?

    Sometimes.  Wood plank floors can have a tremendous amount of flex and therefore are generally not suitable for a concrete micro topping. If however the planks are properly secured and another layer of plywood is glued and screwed, success can be achieved.  Two layers of 1” glued and screwed plywood with staggered seams will be a suitable substrate for our micro toppings.

  • Can Finer Surfaces systems be applied on gypsum or plasterboard?

    Yes.

  • Is it possible to apply different colors to the same surface?

    Yes, the design possibilities are endless.

  • Do the materials come with color in the mix or are colors added after the application?

    Our materials come with color to blend into the mix thus providing more than just surface colorant. Integrally pigmented color provides richer, more saturated hues that are extremely long wearing.

  • How many colors are available?

    We have 60 colors available immediately however we can match to any color on the RAL color chart. These orders generally take 2-3 weeks.

  • How do I clean the micro toppings?

    An organic cleaning agent or soap and clean water will clean the surfaces well.  A damp clean is better than a wet clean because if too wet, water spots could be left behind. We provide specific cleaning instructions for each of the different applications because kitchen counter tops will be sealed differently from floors. Maintenance is very easy.

  • Can the micro toppings be applied to old existing surface?

    Yes, with the proper preparation most stable surfaces can be treated with our micro toppings?

  • When does the micro topping reach its optimal hardness?

    It will reach 95% of its overall strength in just 5-7 days and 100% at 28 days.

  • Does your micro topping scratch?

    The surface strength of our systems is very hard. Things such as high heels can create superficial scratches over time however these can easily be buffed out. Furniture, showers and worktops do not normally show scratches.

  • Can repairs be made on the micro toppings if damage does occur?

    Yes, in most cases repairs are very easy to do.

  • Are there any special recommendations for areas with heavy traffic?

    Our micro toppings are ideal for high traffic areas due to its strength and durability.

  • How durable is a concrete micro topping in cold weather and what are the chances of it flaking up or cracking during the freeze thaw of winter?

    When installed properly, our micro toppings are just as durable as standard concrete. The most important step is preparing the existing surface properly so that our high strength bonding agent will have the opportunity to adhere to the most stable part of the substrate.  As long as this bond is created, there should be no problems on exterior applications is any weather.

  • Are the micro toppings strong enough to take commercial foot traffic?

    Yes, the micro toppings reach the same surface strength as that of concrete used in most bridge construction. The substrate plays a critical role in the overall performance in a commercial setting.

  • What is the best use of the micro topping to ensure the quickest wall installation in a commercial setting?

    We can custom make wall panels with our micro topping which will allow for very quick and easy installation with almost no mess.

  • We make a lot of displays in wood framing, can your micro toppings be used on these?

    Yes, we often suggest mesh for the seams and those seams need to be glued and screwed down in order to prevent movement. The micro toppings are an excellent choice for a high quality, custom finish on top of any plywood substrate.