Considering a floor renovation in your classic Sydney apartment or home? You might uncover an old secret beneath the surface: magnesite flooring. While once a popular choice for soundproofing and levelling, this material has its downsides. Removing it is the first step towards a beautiful, modern home, but what comes next? This guide, brought to you by the experts at elyment.com.au, explores the top flooring options for your space. Why Removing Magnesite Flooring is Crucial for Sydney Homes Magnesite flooring, commonly found in buildings from the 1920s to the 1980s, is a mix of magnesium oxychloride cement. Its biggest problem? It's highly absorbent. Over time, moisture from spills or humidity can cause it to release chloride ions, which corrode the steel reinforcements in your concrete slab. This can lead to a serious issue known as "concrete cancer," causing cracks and structural damage. Removing this material isn't just a cosmetic upgrade; it’s a crucial step for your property's long-term health and value. The removal process itself requires specialised equipment to safely and efficiently strip away the magnesite layer, often followed by concrete grinding to prepare the subfloor for its new life. Remember, for strata properties, this is often considered common property, so obtaining strata approval is a critical first step. Top Modern Flooring Options for Sydney Homes Once the old magnesite is gone, your concrete slab is a blank canvas. Here are the most popular and on-trend flooring options Sydneysiders are choosing today, all perfectly suited for a fresh start. Engineered Timber Flooring Engineered timber offers the timeless elegance and warmth of solid hardwood without the drawbacks. It's a fantastic choice for living areas and bedrooms, providing a luxurious feel that never goes out of style. The current trend is leaning towards wide planks and warmer tones like European oak, honey oak, and Australian blackbutt. For a classic yet modern look, consider a herringbone pattern—it adds a touch of sophistication to any space. Polished Concrete For a sleek, minimalist, and low-maintenance aesthetic, polished concrete is hard to beat. This option is particularly popular in contemporary homes and apartments. The process involves grinding and sealing the existing concrete slab, creating a durable and unique finish. It's cool underfoot in summer and works beautifully with underfloor heating in winter. Plus, it’s incredibly durable and easy to clean, making it a perfect solution for busy families. Hybrid Flooring As the name suggests, hybrid flooring combines the best of both worlds: the durability of laminate with the water resistance of vinyl. It's a practical and stylish choice for kitchens, laundries, and high-traffic areas. Hybrid flooring is available in a huge range of realistic timber and stone looks, providing a fantastic, budget-friendly alternative to natural materials. It's also scratch-resistant, making it ideal for homes with kids and pets. Key Takeaways for Your Renovation Preparation is Key: Magnesite removal and subfloor preparation are non-negotiable for a successful new floor installation. Consider Your Lifestyle: Choose a floor that matches your daily life. High-traffic areas need a durable solution like hybrid or polished concrete. Follow the Trends: Warmer tones, wider planks, and natural textures are all the rage in Sydney. Get Expert Help: Professional assessment is crucial to identify potential issues like "concrete cancer" and ensure a seamless, long-lasting result. Ready to transform your home from the ground up? The team at Elyment Group can help you navigate the entire process, from safe magnesite removal to flawless new floor installation. Follow us on X for more renovation tips: @ElymentGroup Ready to Renovate? Let's Chat Floors!