A bathroom should be more than just practical; it should feel like a personal retreat, a place to pamper yourself with pleasure and luxury. If you’ve ever envied the tranquil, spa-like bathrooms of luxury hotels or modern wellness centers, you likely noticed one consistent design choice: smooth walls and floors with no visible grout lines or joints.

That sleek, seamless style can now be yours - without demolition! Enter: Continuo Micro-Cement by San Marco and exclusively distributed in Canada through The Decora Company.

Continuo Micro-Cement is a high performance, ultra thin micro-cement overlay system which can be applied directly over existing walls, floors and tiles. It delivers the sophisticated, upscale look of polished concrete or textured stone without the hassles and drawbacks so often associated with traditional epoxy surfacing. This revolutionizes the way to upgrade your existing - decades old, ugly, dated, peeling shower floor and make it look better than new.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn what makes Continuo work, why professionals across Europe and North America are confidently using it over tile, and how it compares to traditional tile. We’ll also be featuring design pairings and color trends for 2026 from The Decora Company’s experts.

CONTINUO ~Decor is a two-component epoxy cement system. The decorative layer is a spreadable paste that can be used for coating horizontal and vertical surfaces. It can be tinted to a wide variety of colors.  Continuo allows for different decorative effects to be achieved, from the flat-and-uniform monolithic to two-tone and textured.

Continuo should be used as a system with proprietary primers and a two-component top coat. The Kit includes all essential parts of the complete Microcement Floor, Wall and countertop Kit; including primer, base coat, decorative plaster and top clear coat. 

What Is Continuo Micro-Cement?

Continuo Micro-Cement is an innovative surfacing system from San Marco, Italy’s number one choice for decorative wall finishes. It is engineered for both horizontal and vertical applications, so homeowners and designers can use it to design their own continuous, joint-free surface that is aesthetically appealing while being functional and durability-lasting.

The product is part of a two-component epoxy-cement system from Fap called Continuo Decor, which melds technical performance with visual artistry.

The Continuo system typically includes:

• Primer: For adequate adhesion over tile or other surfaces.

• Base Coat: A micro-cement layer that fills grout joints and creates an even foundation.

• Decorative Plaster Layer: The aesthetic finish—smooth, satin, or textured.

• Two-Component Polyurethane Topcoat: A clear sealer that provides protection, durability, and waterproofing.
  
  

This three layer operation turns old tiles to a perfectly smooth, kind of natural waterproof surface that feels rather flat and solid too.

What is micro-cement used for? Micro-cement is applied to revamp and refresh walls, floors and work tops without removing old ones. It’s most frequently utilized in bathroom and kitchen remodeling projects and all different types of construction to create a waterproof, seamless finish that enhances the room with an unprecedented industrial design element.

Why Continuo Micro-Cement Is Perfect for Shower Renovations

The prospect of renovating a shower can be daunting to many homeowners because of its cost, the mess and demolition work required, which includes taking out old tile. Continuo eliminates those challenges completely. Here’s its key advantages broken down.

1. No Demolition Required

One of the strongest points of Continuo Micro-Cement is its adhesion power towards an existing support: in fact it can be applied onto ceramic tiles, marble and cement. No old tiles to tear out, no plumbing to disrupt. The result? A quick, clean renovation that saves both time and money.

2. Spa-Like Aesthetic Appeal

Designed by Jörg Boner for ambiente direct, the modular bathroom series boasts a slimline, minimalist aesthetic reminiscent of contemporary spas and swanky hotels. It is available in almost any color imaginable, so the possible pairings are endless — from a dressed-up ivory or sand to an edgy charcoal or deep taupe. Depending on how it is applied, it can look perfectly smooth and monolithic or just subtly textured and artisanal, softening the bathroom with personality and warmth.

3. Fully Waterproof and Mold-Resistant

The surface is 100% waterproof and vapor resistant after being sealed with Q’s exclusive Continuo polyurethane topcoat, so it’s ideal for showers and wet areas. The smooth finish has no grout lines, to inhibit mildew buildup or accumulation of dirt, a major plus for easy-care living.

4. Strong and Long-Lasting

Continuo Micro-Cement is incredibly durable. The multi-layered epoxy-cement resists chips, cracks and abrasion. With care, a Continuo finish can live on for decades and is likely to outlast most traditional materials.

5. Eco-Friendly and Breathable

Continuo is composed of low-VOC materials and mineral-based ingredients. The breathable material allows moisture to be regulated naturally, making your room a healthier part of The Decora Company’s sustainable design ethos.

The Step-by-Step Process: Installing Continuo Micro-Cement Over Tiles

Proper installation ensures lasting results. The following is the procedure that most of the Decora Company-approved applicators use:

1. Surface Preparation

Existing tiles are thoroughly degreased and cleaned. Loose or cracked tiles are repaired to create a solid foundation.

2. Joint Filling

Specialised micro-cement base coat is applied to your existing tile grout lines, which is then polished up before applying the top-coat, this is also what makes the end product look seamless.

3. Priming

The adhesion-promoting primer (e.g., Pro-Link) is used to ensure that the substrate and Continuo layers will become bonded properly.

4. Micro-Cement Application

Two to three ultra-thin coats of Continuo Microbase are trowelled out. One layer is dried before the next is added to create texture and strength.

5. Decorative Coating

For walls, applicators just have to brush on « Continuo Microfino » (fine-grain finish). For flooring, slip resistance is ensured by use of Continuo Microdeck. Each of these options can be colorized to get custom-tailored aesthetics from a concrete matte to a polished satin finish.

6. Sealing

A Continuo Polyurethane Topcoat is then applied to achieve the final waterproofing and protective layer. This process also resists moisture, stains, and daily wear.

Once finished, your shower walls will have a smooth, contemporary feel: durable enough to stand up to daily use and luxurious enough to be the centerpiece of your high-end bathroom.

Pro Tip: When applying, be sure to collaborate with a trained Continuo-certified applicator. Decora Company teams up with trained professionals who receive their instruction right from San Marco to ensure they get the application just right.

Why Micro-Cement Beats Traditional Tile

Continuo wins on nearly every front. It’s faster, cleaner, more luxurious, and built for longevity.

The Continuo Decor Kit by The Decora Company

A complete CONTINUO Micro-Cement Coating Kit (50 FT²) is available: For all do-it-yourselfers and professionals the following are included with The Decora Company.

• Primer

• Base coat

• Decorative plaster (Continuo Decor)

• Polyurethane topcoat
  
  

This one-for-all pick makes sure that all layers get along just fine for a flawless end result. Ideal for both small tub repairs and complete spa makeovers, this kit includes everything you need to get professional results.

Where to Use Continuo

• Shower walls and floors

• Bathroom countertops and sinks

• Wet room designs

• Accent walls

• Entryways and kitchens

Continuo easily adapts to provide the same design of continuity across all surface languages from bath through living.

The Primary Benefits of Applying Continuo Micro-Cement Over Shower Tiles

1. No Demolition Required - One of the biggest benefits about using Continuo microcement is that it can be directly applied to your existing tile without having to demolish and rip it off prior. This eliminates the mess, expense and inconvenience of heavy construction.

2. Stunning Looks, Endless Options - Continuo microcement gives your shower the high-end, gleaming concrete look in about one hour flat. It’s available in any color and can have a plethora of textures, from ultra-sleek and smooth to rougher textures that add texture. You can have the spa ambiance and personalize it just for you.

3. Waterproof and Low-Maintenance -  As well as their design flexibility, Continuo micro-cements are 100% waterproof when correctly sealed, ensuring resistance against the moisture and humidity of your shower. The unibody surface is also super easy to clean with a regular wipe-down every week.

The Continuo Micro-Cement Installation Process for Shower Tiles

1. Surface Preparation -  Hydraulic shower tray tiles must be cleaned until they are free from substances that could harm adhesion of microcement.Then any cracked or damaged tile should be repaired. This ensures proper adhesion

2. Joint Filling - The joint grout lines in between tiles are filled and evened out with Continuo's base layer of microcement to obtain a uniform, level surface.

3. Priming - pro-link primer is applied with a roller to the tiles, enabling the microcement layers to adhere firmly.

4. Micro-cement Application - Following preparation and priming, tinted Continuo Microbase is trowelled on the tiles in multiple ultra-thin applications but keeping each wet-layer to dry before applying the next. This creates the thickness of the continuous microcement coating.

5. Finishing Layers - A last layer of Continuo's Microdeck (floors) or Microfino (walls) microcement is laid to obtain the desired finish and texture.

6. Sealing - Lastly the microcement shower overlay is sealed with a Continuo polyurethane sealant which encapsulates the waterproofing and guards it against water.

Maintenance and Longevity

Your Continuo surface will maintain its beauty with simple care.

• Routine Cleaning: Use mild, pH-neutral soap and a soft cloth or sponge.

• Avoid: Abrasive cleaners, acidic products, or rough pads.

• Yearly Inspection: Check for wear and reseal every 3–5 years for maximum waterproofing.

• Environmentally Conscious: Continuo’s breathable, low-VOC composition means no harmful fumes or chemicals, making it ideal for wellness-focused homes.
  
  

With these steps, your Continuo Micro-Cement shower will look as pristine and inviting in ten years as it does on day one.

The Future of Bathroom Design: Seamless Wellness Spaces

Modern homeowners are moving away from visually cluttered spaces toward seamless, wellness-inspired designs. Continuo Micro-Cement perfectly aligns with this trend, offering minimal lines, natural textures, and sustainable performance.

Paired with ambient lighting, warm neutral tones, and complementary finishes like Cadoro or Marcopolo Luxury, Continuo creates a bathroom that’s not only beautiful but emotionally restorative.
Each shower becomes an immersive spa experience, where light, texture, and sound harmonize in a soothing rhythm.

As The Decora Company continues to bring San Marco’s advanced finishes to North America, this European standard of craftsmanship is becoming the new benchmark for luxury residential interiors.

You don’t need to demolish your bathroom to achieve a luxurious, spa-worthy transformation. With Continuo Micro-Cement by San Marco, distributed by The Decora Company, you can create a waterproof, durable, and visually stunning shower surface that stands the test of time.

Continuo offers:

• Seamless elegance

• Customizable colors and textures

• Low-maintenance durability

• Eco-conscious, Italian-engineered quality
  
  

Whether you’re renovating your home or designing a high-end commercial space, Continuo brings the artistry of Italian minimalism to your interiors.

To complete the look, explore our complementary San Marco finishes, Marcopolo luxury, Cadoro, and Marmorino Fine and discover how each product can help you craft a cohesive, luxurious atmosphere throughout your home.

👉 Visit www.thedecoracompany.com to explore our Continuo Micro-Cement collection and get expert guidance on achieving a spa-worthy shower with seamless modern design.