“Mineralico” in this context refers to a decorative, mineral-based plaster/floor coating product (Floortec 2K-Mineralico SL 470) by Brillux, used for creating modern, high-end indoor flooring surfaces. It blends aesthetics, durability, and design flexibility. If you’re considering it for a remodel, new build, or high-traffic space, this article explains what it is, how it works, benefits, drawbacks, and practical tips.
What Is Mineralico SL-470?
Mineralico SL-470 (also “Floortec 2K-Mineralico SL 470”) is a two-component, mineral-based, trowel-finished floor plaster / filler system designed for interior flooring surfaces.
Key attributes:
- It has a pure mineral basis—the material is mineral-based rather than resin heavy.
- It’s self-leveling (from ~2 mm thickness) and can be applied over interior floors that are walked on or lightly wheeled. Examples: residential homes, offices, commercial spaces.
- The product uses a hardener (Floortec Hardener 471) as one component. The two parts must be properly mixed.
- After curing, it has good compressive strength (about 30 N/mm² after 28 days) and low tension (minimizing cracks under proper preparation).
Also, it comes in many color shades (60 shades) via Brillux’s color system, and its surface can be given different textures (monochrome, two-tone, marbled, etc.).
Benefits & Strengths of Using Mineralico SL-470 Floors
If you choose Mineralico SL-470, these are the major advantages you’ll likely experience:
Aesthetic Versatility
Because of its mineral base, color options, and ability to create subtle textures (e.g. streaky effects, marbling, two tones), the floor finishes can be visually striking and unique.
Durability & Load Handling
The high compressive strength (~30 N/mm²) makes floors robust under typical usage. It is also rated for certain rolling loads (chair casters of type W) and can handle light wheeled loads
Compatibility with Heating & Interiors
Suitable for use over warm-water underfloor heating. Because it’s a mineral filler system, it’s appropriate for interior environments, shops, offices, showrooms etc.
Fire & Safety Ratings
The product is non-combustible (class A2fl-s1) and can meet slip resistance classes R9 or R10 when sealed properly. This helps in meeting regulatory safety standards.
Thickness & Layer Control
You can achieve good results with relatively thin layers (from around 2 mm), which is useful in renovations where floor height is a concern.
Unique Floor Design Effects
The material allows for joint-less, monolithic flooring that avoids typical tile joints, and can show a patina or slight imperfections over time, often desired for that raw, industrial aesthetic.
Limitations & Considerations Before Choosing Mineralico
Even with its strengths, anyone considering Mineralico SL-470 should be aware of potential challenges:
Substrate Preparation is Critical
The base surface (substrate) must be structurally sound, clean, free of cracks, and properly primed. Any defects in the substrate will show through or cause issues later.
Sealing Required
Although the base is mineral, after installation the surface must be sealed with appropriate sealant systems (e.g., Floortec primers and PU sealers) to protect against wear, moisture, staining and to achieve desired gloss/matt finishes. Without sealing, performance and lifespan will suffer.
Cost & Skill-Level
Because it is a premium product, costs (material + labor) are higher than simpler flooring options. Also requires experienced applicators familiar with self-leveling mineral floors. Texture effects and color transitions are more demanding.
Surface Imperfections & Patina Are Part of Aesthetic
Slight cracks, hairlines or small variation are not always defects but part of the “patina” over time. If you want a perfectly uniform industrial finish, this may be an issue.
Dry-Time & Curing Requirements
After application, appropriate time is needed for curing, then sealing. Conditions of humidity, temperature, and drying time are important; rushing this can lead to failures.
How to Apply & Install Mineralico SL-470 Properly
To get good performance and look, application steps must be followed carefully. Here are the main stages and practical tips:
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Substrate Assessment & Preparation
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Remove any previous coating, paint, or loose material.
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Fill large cracks or holes with appropriate fillers.
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Ensure substrate is level or apply leveling compound (Brillux Floor Leveling Compound 3115 or FX 3109) where needed.
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Priming
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Apply a primer coat (e.g., Multi Floor Primer LF 3084) to ensure good adhesion and sealing of the substrate.
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Mixing & Applying Mineralico
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Mix the base component (Mineralico SL-470) and the Hardener 471 thoroughly. Poor mixing leads to weak spots.
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Spread using a scraper or trowel, applying the mineral filler to desired thickness (≥2 mm recommended). Create texture or desired effects (marbling, color transitions) before smoothing too much.
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Polishing / Smoothing
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After partially cured, polish or smooth with the appropriate tools (rotary disk machine, filler knife) to refine surface texture.
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Sealing
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Once dry and polished, seal with a suitable system (e.g. Floortec PU sealers: T 876 (silk matt) or T 877 (silk gloss)) to protect against stains, wear, and moisture.
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Maintenance
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Regular cleaning, avoiding harsh chemicals. Use suitable cleaning pads to avoid scratches.
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Typical Applications & Aesthetic Uses
Mineralico SL-470 is used in various settings where both aesthetics and durability matter. Some common uses:
- Residential Interiors — Living rooms, hallways, kitchens where a seamless, modern, industrial feel is desired.
- Commercial Spaces — Offices, showrooms, boutiques where design statement matters but foot traffic is high.
- Retail / Hospitality — Restaurants, cafés, hotels that want minimal joints, rich textures, custom color, and strong design appeal.
- Heritage / Historical Buildings — Because Mineralico can adapt to different moods, it can be used to create modern finishes without completely sacrificing historical character. Brillux mentions use in historical buildings.
Design-wise, you can go for these looks:
- Monochrome, matte or satin finishes giving a minimalist, calm aesthetic.
- Two-tone or color contrast finishes where colors blend or shift, for artistic or dramatic effect.
- Industrial loft style with muted earth tones, greys, concrete look.
- Accent zones or feature floors where Mineralico is combined with wood or tile to frame or highlight areas.
Buying, Cost & Durability: What to Expect in Practice
If you decide to use Mineralico SL-470, here’s what to plan for in terms of budget, lifespan, and performance:
Cost Estimate
The material component (base + hardener + sealers) is premium. Labor is another large portion because skilled installers are needed. Expect higher costs compared to standard tile or laminate, especially when doing color transitions or decorative finishes.
Durability & Lifespan
With correct installation & maintenance, the floor should last many years with minimal degradation. The compressive strength and resistance to typical wear & rolling loads help. However, heavy or point loads, sharp impacts, prolonged moisture exposure, or harsh chemicals may still cause damage.
Maintenance Requirements
- Gentle cleaning with pH-neutral cleaners.
- Sealing/ resealing over years if sealant coat wears down.
- Avoid dragging sharp or heavy furniture; use felt pads under legs.
Resale & Value Add
Many architects or interior designers see this product as adding visual and design value to a space. Well-done mineral floors can be a selling point in high-end interiors.
Environmental & Safety Considerations
Mineralico’s non-combustibility and mineral base make it relatively good in terms of fire safety and indoor air quality (less off-gassing than some resin floors). Proper sealing still necessary to limit dust or abrasion of wear layers.
Conclusion: Is Mineralico SL-470 Right for Your Project?
To sum up:
If you’re looking for a high-design, custom, modern floor finish that merges beauty and durability, Mineralico SL-470 is a strong choice.
You need to invest in skillful installation, careful substrate prep, appropriate sealing, and accept that some surface “imperfections” or patina may be part of the aesthetic.
For heavy industrial loads, outdoor applications, or tight budgets, you might consider other flooring types (e.g., epoxies, tiles, polished concrete) depending on your priorities.
If you care about design, longevity, and indoor finish quality—and you’re willing to pay a bit more for craftsmanship—Mineralico can be a great investment.
