Can you tile directly over pebblecrete?Tiling directly over pebblecrete is strongly advised against by industry experts due to the high risk of structural failure. The uneven aggregate surface prevents 100% adhesive contact, while the porous nature of pebblecrete traps moisture, leading to “drummy” tiles, cracking, and eventual lifting. Elyment Property Services recommends complete mechanical grinding and removal to ensure a stable, flat substrate for new flooring in NSW homes.Why does tiling over pebblecrete fail?Homeowners often attempt to tile over pebblecrete to save money, but the long-term costs often exceed the initial savings.Poor Adhesion: Tile glue requires a flat surface to bond effectively. The peaks and valleys of pebblecrete stones create air gaps where the glue cannot grip, reducing bond strength by up to 50%.Moisture Entrapment: Pebblecrete is porous. When covered with non-porous tiles, rising damp or trapped moisture builds hydrostatic pressure, causing the tiles to delaminate (pop off) the floor.Height and Clearance Issues: Adding tile and adhesive on top of existing pebblecrete raises the floor level by 15–25 mm. This often creates trip hazards and blocks door clearance, requiring expensive carpentry adjustments.Surface Instability: Old pebblecrete often has loose stones. If the base layer crumbles, the new tiles on top will inevitably crack.What is the cost of pebblecrete removal vs. repair?Understanding the financial difference between doing it right (removal) and a “cover-up” job is essential for Sydney property owners.Method: Complete Removal (Grinding) Estimated Cost (Per Sqm): $60 - $120 Longevity: 20+ Years Risk Level: LowMethod: Tiling Over (Patching) Estimated Cost (Per Sqm): $40 - $80 (plus tile cost) Longevity: 1 - 3 Years Risk Level: HighMethod: Resurfacing Repair Estimated Cost (Per Sqm): $50 - $90 Longevity: 5 - 10 Years Risk Level: MediumHow does Elyment Property Services remove pebblecrete?Elyment utilises industrial-grade concrete grinding machinery to ensure a flawless finish suitable for new tiling or epoxy installation.Heavy Grinding: High-powered planetary grinders with diamond tooling are used to aggressively cut through the pebble and cement matrix.Surface Rectification: Once the bulk is removed, the concrete slab is assessed for cracks or damage and repaired using high-strength fillers.Preparation: The slab is smoothed to the correct Australian Standards profile, ensuring it is ready for the new floor covering of your choice.Why choose Elyment Property Services for floor preparation?Elyment Property Services specialises in high-end floor preparation and concrete grinding across Rouse Hill and the Greater Sydney region. With a focus on structural integrity and premium finishes, Elyment ensures that your renovation base is solid, protecting your investment in expensive tiles or hybrid flooring.