As a savvy property investor in Sydney’s competitive real estate market, you’re always looking for smart ways to increase the value of your assets. While kitchen upgrades and fresh coats of paint are popular choices, there’s a hidden issue in many older apartment buildings that could be silently eroding your property’s value and structural integrity: magnesite flooring. At Elyment Group, we're experts in identifying and resolving complex building issues. In this article, we'll explore why magnesite removal is a crucial investment that can significantly boost your property’s appeal and market price. Follow us on X @ElymentGroup for more tips on property maintenance and value enhancement. What is Magnesite Flooring and Why is it a Problem? Magnesite flooring was a popular choice in Australian apartment buildings from the 1960s to the 1980s as a cheap and effective soundproofing and floor-levelling agent. However, time has revealed its significant downsides. Made from magnesium oxychloride, sawdust, and sometimes even asbestos, magnesite is highly susceptible to moisture. When magnesite gets damp—a common occurrence in kitchens, bathrooms, laundries, and near windows—it releases corrosive chlorides. These chlorides seep into the concrete slab below, causing "concrete cancer." This destructive process corrodes the reinforcing steel within the concrete, leading to: Spalling (concrete breaking away) Cracking and lifting of floors Structural weakness Expensive repairs if left untreated Key Takeaways: The Dangers of Magnesite Structural Damage: Leads to "concrete cancer," compromising the building's integrity. Health Risks: Older magnesite may contain asbestos, a serious health hazard when disturbed. Decreased Property Value: The presence of magnesite can be a major red flag for potential buyers and lenders. Hidden Costs: Ignoring magnesite can lead to far more extensive and costly repairs down the track. The Solution: Professional Magnesite Removal The only effective and long-term solution is the complete removal of the magnesite topping. This is a specialised process that should only be undertaken by experienced professionals. The process typically involves: Assessment and Testing: Checking for the presence of asbestos. Safe Removal: Using specialised equipment to safely remove the magnesite while controlling dust. Concrete Repair: Treating any "concrete cancer" and repairing the concrete slab. Floor Levelling: Applying a new, high-quality levelling compound to prepare the floor for new coverings. Boosting Your Investment Property's Value in Sydney Removing magnesite isn't just about preventing damage; it's a strategic move to increase your property's value. Here's how: Increased Buyer Confidence: A magnesite-free property is a more attractive prospect for buyers, who are increasingly aware of the issue. Higher Sale Price: By eliminating a major structural defect, you can command a higher price in the competitive Sydney market. Easier to Sell: Properties with known structural issues can linger on the market. A clean bill of health makes for a quicker, smoother sale. Future-Proofing Your Investment: Proactive removal prevents future costs and protects the long-term value of your asset. What's the Return on Investment? While the cost of magnesite removal can vary depending on the size of the area and the extent of the damage, the return on investment is significant. By addressing the issue, you not only avoid potentially tens of thousands of dollars in future structural repairs but also add tangible value to your property. Think of it as an essential upgrade, much like a new kitchen or bathroom, but with the added benefit of ensuring the building's structural soundness. Your Next Steps If you own an investment property in Sydney built between the 1960s and 1980s, it's crucial to determine if magnesite flooring is present. Don't wait for the signs of damage to appear. Proactive investigation and removal can save you money and headaches in the long run. Ready to protect and enhance your investment? Contact the experts at Elyment Group for a comprehensive assessment. Our team has the expertise to manage the entire process, from testing and removal to concrete repair and floor preparation. 🛡️ Secure Your Investment Today! .cta-btn { background-color: #022b5f; /* Button background color */ color: white; /* Text color */ border: none; padding: 12px 28px; border-radius: 50px; /* Modern pill shape */ cursor: pointer; text-align: center; display: inline-block; margin-top: 20px; transition: background-color 0.3s, box-shadow 0.3s ease, transform 0.3s ease; box-shadow: 0 0 10px rgba(2, 43, 95, 0.5); /* Initial glow shadow */ text-decoration: none; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 1.05em; font-weight: bold; } .cta-btn:hover { background-color: #16443e; /* Darker shade on hover */ box-shadow: 0 0 20px rgba(22, 70, 138, 0.7); /* Enhanced glow shadow on hover */ transform: scale(1.05); }