FC - Application on Worktops
Craftsman Guide / Worktops Application: Worktops. Practical guide for build-up, layer systems, and application of Forcrete microcement on worktops and countertops.. 🛑 Before Starting the Project — Ph…
Updated
by tomas martinsson
Craftsman Guide / Worktops
Application: Worktops
Practical guide for build-up, layer systems, and application of Forcrete microcement on worktops and countertops.
🛑 Before Starting the Project — Physical Sample Requirement:
• Always make a physical sample of at least 60×60 cm in the correct color and texture for client approval before starting.
• Rigid Substrate: The worktop must be completely rigid and all joints flush and level. Movement in the carcass or substrate board will lead to cracking over time.
• Substrate Inspection: Assess moisture and stability prior to starting, and review any defects with the client before commencing work.
• Always make a physical sample of at least 60×60 cm in the correct color and texture for client approval before starting.
• Rigid Substrate: The worktop must be completely rigid and all joints flush and level. Movement in the carcass or substrate board will lead to cracking over time.
• Substrate Inspection: Assess moisture and stability prior to starting, and review any defects with the client before commencing work.
1. Substrate Preparation & Reinforcement
1.
Degreasing & Cleaning: Wash and degrease existing worktops thoroughly. Grease and contaminants impair adhesion and may bleed through the cement.
2.
Repair Defects: Fill voids and damages with non-shrink repair mortar. Sand and vacuum the surface completely clean.
3.
Reinforcement: Forcrete is reinforced with 160 g mesh, spot-glued using a hot melt glue gun. Always lay sheets edge-to-edge without overlapping to avoid ridges.
2. Build-Up System Selection
Option 1: Standard (XT Base)
Maximum Hardness
Standard method for maximum impact resistance and hardness on worktops.
1. Primer: Roll Forprime DPM and fully broadcast quartz sand into the wet coat. Allow to cure.
2. Base Coat 1: Sweep up sand, fit reinforcement mesh, and trowel Microbase XT. Allow to dry.
3. Base Coat 2: Sand with a 50 diamond pad, vacuum, and apply the second coat of Microbase XT.
4. Microquartz (Coat 1): Sand the base coat smooth and apply Microquartz Coarse.
5. Microquartz (Coat 2): Sand lightly and apply the final coat of Microquartz (Coarse, Medium, or Smooth).
2. Base Coat 1: Sweep up sand, fit reinforcement mesh, and trowel Microbase XT. Allow to dry.
3. Base Coat 2: Sand with a 50 diamond pad, vacuum, and apply the second coat of Microbase XT.
4. Microquartz (Coat 1): Sand the base coat smooth and apply Microquartz Coarse.
5. Microquartz (Coat 2): Sand lightly and apply the final coat of Microquartz (Coarse, Medium, or Smooth).
Option 2: Faster Build-Up
Time-Efficient
Accelerated method where primer and both base coats can be applied on Day 1.
1. Primer & Base Coat 1: Prime with Monogrip or Monoprime, fit mesh, and apply Monostone XL.
2. Drying: Force dry with a fan (at least 2 hours) until the surface is completely dry.
3. Base Coat 2: Sand lightly and trowel a coat of Microbase XT. Allow to dry.
4. Microquartz (Coat 1): Sand the XT coat with a 50 diamond pad and apply Microquartz Coarse.
5. Microquartz (Coat 2): Sand lightly and apply the final coat of Microquartz (Coarse, Medium, or Smooth).
2. Drying: Force dry with a fan (at least 2 hours) until the surface is completely dry.
3. Base Coat 2: Sand lightly and trowel a coat of Microbase XT. Allow to dry.
4. Microquartz (Coat 1): Sand the XT coat with a 50 diamond pad and apply Microquartz Coarse.
5. Microquartz (Coat 2): Sand lightly and apply the final coat of Microquartz (Coarse, Medium, or Smooth).
🔒 Tip for Crisp and Clean Front Edges:
Apply the top surface first and let it dry. Sand the top surface lightly, apply masking tape exactly along the top edge, and trowel the front edge separately. This eliminates the risk of spills and tooling marks on the finished top surface.
Apply the top surface first and let it dry. Sand the top surface lightly, apply masking tape exactly along the top edge, and trowel the front edge separately. This eliminates the risk of spills and tooling marks on the finished top surface.
3. Workflow & Day-by-Day Schedule
⏳ Curing and Surface Loading:
• Light Handling: The worktop can be handled carefully after 24 hours.
• Installation & Loading: Do not install hobs, sinks, or heavy appliances for at least 5 days.
• Covering: Do not cover the worktop with protective paper or plastic during the first 14 days, as the sealer must fully cure and breathe.
• Water & Cleaning: Do not expose the surface to standing water, dish soap, or chemicals during the first 7 days.
• Light Handling: The worktop can be handled carefully after 24 hours.
• Installation & Loading: Do not install hobs, sinks, or heavy appliances for at least 5 days.
• Covering: Do not cover the worktop with protective paper or plastic during the first 14 days, as the sealer must fully cure and breathe.
• Water & Cleaning: Do not expose the surface to standing water, dish soap, or chemicals during the first 7 days.
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