Cement Screed Finishing Does NOT Last
One of the most popular trending and “aesthetic” finishes we hear homeowners talk about nowadays is microcement or cement screed finishing.
For those looking for such industrial or raw design themes, this post is made especially for you.
Watch our tiktok channel if you lazy to read.
What Exactly is Cement Screed?
Cement screed is basically a layer of cement & sand applied over concrete slabs to create a smooth, level surface.
Think of it as the “kaya toast” between bread. It is usually put before you lay floor tiles.
However, the screed itself, with a layer of protective lacquer, is increasingly being seen as a popular finishing option on it’s own.
How Does It ACTUALLY Look?
If you stay in a HDB just step out of your house, look down — it’s VERY similar (ofc without lacquer etc.).
No doubt, it can bring out that organic look that many homeowners love. Beautiful, unique, just search “microcement” or “cement screed finishing” on social media, and you might be the next homeowner that does it.
But the downside is rarely talked about.
The Truth
It does not last. It really does not.
It gets dirty very very easily, evident from the image above. But the worst part? It cracks.
No matter how much lacquer you put on top, over time, cracks WILL appear.
This is even bigger a problem in Singapore due to the climatic stress placed on the screed. The hot and humid weather of Singapore means the screed will expand and contract often making it more prone to cracking.
For those who plan to stay in their house long-term and mind these cracks, this “instant gratification” might not be worth it in the long run.
TLDR
Cement Screed looks very chio in images, but know the downsides before you commit.
It will get dirty easily
It will crack over time no matter how much lacquer you put
So, unless you are really into the wabi-sabi cracked and unfinished concrete aesthetic, go stare at your corridor/void deck everyday until you are certain that is the aesthetic you’re going for.
If you are looking to shortlist reliable IDs/contractors for your reno, feel free to enquire here, or check out our blog for other important tips!!