Both microcement and tiles are popular choices for Maltese floors and walls, but they suit different needs. Here’s a straightforward comparison to help you decide between microcement and tiles for your next project.
Look and Feel
- Microcement: completely seamless, no grout lines, a smooth continuous surface that can flow from floor to wall
- Tiles: wide range of patterns, colours and textures, but always broken up by grout lines and joints
Durability
- Microcement: highly resistant to scratches and impact when properly sealed, but can be damaged by very sharp impacts or improper sealing
- Tiles: very hard-wearing surface, though individual tiles can crack and grout can stain or degrade over time
Maintenance
- Microcement: no grout lines means nothing for dirt or mould to collect in — easy to keep clean, but needs periodic resealing
- Tiles: grout requires regular cleaning and occasional resealing to avoid staining and mould, especially in wet areas
Installation
- Microcement: can often be applied directly over existing tiles or concrete, reducing demolition work and mess
- Tiles: usually require the old surface to be removed first, or additional height buildup to tile over it
Cost
Microcement typically costs more per m² upfront than standard tiling — see our guide to microcement cost per m² in Malta for real numbers. Tiles offer more flexibility at lower price points, especially for larger budget-conscious projects.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose microcement if you want a seamless, modern look, are renovating over an existing surface, or want a low-maintenance finish with no grout to worry about. Choose tiles if you want more design flexibility, a lower upfront cost, or a very high-traffic commercial surface where tile replacement is straightforward.
Why Choose Shaw Contractors
We install both microcement and tiling across Malta, so our advice is based on what’s right for your space — not just what we happen to sell. See our complete guide to microcement for more detail.
Not sure which is right for your project? Contact Shaw Contractors for expert advice.
