If you're dealing with an older home or unit in Sydney, you might have come across magnesite flooring. It's common in buildings from the 1920s to the 1980s, but it can cause real headaches over time. Removing it safely is key, but costs can add up if you're not prepared. In this guide, we'll break down what to expect for magnesite removal costs in Sydney and how to dodge those sneaky hidden fees. Whether you're a homeowner or strata manager, you'll find practical tips here to make the process smoother. What Is Magnesite Flooring? Magnesite is a type of flooring material used as a topping on concrete slabs in older Sydney buildings. It's made from magnesium oxychloride cement, often mixed with sawdust or wood fibres. While it was popular for soundproofing and levelling, it absorbs moisture easily, leading to problems like concrete corrosion – known as concrete cancer. If left unchecked, magnesite can damage your property's structure, causing cracks and weakening the slab. That's why removal is often necessary before installing new floors. Why Remove Magnesite? Removing magnesite isn't just about aesthetics; it's about safety and longevity. Here's why it's worth considering: Prevents corrosion: Magnesite releases chloride ions that rust steel reinforcements in concrete. Avoids health risks: Older magnesite may contain asbestos, which is dangerous if disturbed. Prepares for new flooring: You can't reliably install timber, carpet, or tiles over damaged magnesite without issues like bubbling or delamination. Increases property value: A clean, repaired slab makes your home more appealing to buyers. If you're renovating in areas like the Northern Beaches or inner Sydney, early removal can save you thousands in future repairs. Average Magnesite Removal Costs in Sydney In Sydney, professional magnesite removal typically costs in the range of $40-$50 per square metre. But that's just the starting point. Depending on your property's size and condition, the total bill can vary. Here's a breakdown of common costs: Removal: $40-$50 per square metre. Concrete grinding: $20-$60 per square metre to smooth the surface after removal. Floor levelling: $40-$70 per square metre, often with a minimum job size of 50 square metres. Waste disposal: $100-$800, depending on the amount of material removed. Concrete cancer repairs: $100-$150 per litre if corrosion is found. For a standard 50-square-metre unit, you might pay between $2,000 and $6,000 for the full job, including grinding and levelling. Always get a site inspection for an accurate quote. Factors That Affect the Cost Not all jobs are the same. Several things can push the price up or down: Property access: Stairs, no lift, or tight spaces mean more labour time. Slab condition: If there's extensive damage or concrete cancer, repairs add to the bill. Asbestos presence: Testing and specialised removal if asbestos is detected can increase costs by 20-50%. Job size: Larger areas often get a better rate per square metre. Power supply: Sites with limited power (e.g., 10AMP) may need extra equipment. Pro tip: Check your strata by-laws early. In many cases, the owners corporation covers removal and grinding, while you're responsible for new flooring. How to Avoid Hidden Fees Hidden fees can turn a straightforward job into a budget blowout. Here's how to stay ahead: Get multiple quotes: Compare at least three providers to spot overcharges. Ask about inclusions: Ensure waste disposal, grinding, and clean-up are covered – some companies charge extra for skip bins ($300+). Test for asbestos upfront: A clearance certificate prevents surprises during removal. Secure strata approval: Delays or legal issues from skipping this can add unnecessary costs. Watch for add-ons: Things like skirting board removal ($20-$60 per metre) or furniture shifting should be quoted clearly. Choosing a reputable company like Elyment Group ensures transparent pricing with no nasty surprises. Visit https://elyment.com.au/ for more details. Key Takeaways To wrap it up, here's what you need to remember about magnesite removal in Sydney: Average cost is $40-$50 per square metre, but factor in grinding and levelling for the full picture. Always test for asbestos and get strata approval to avoid delays and extra fees. Hidden costs like waste disposal or repairs can be dodged with clear quotes and planning. Early removal prevents bigger issues like concrete cancer, saving money long-term. Source: Inspired by industry insights from https://www.carpetremovalsydney.com.au/the-cost-of-removing-magnesite/ and other Sydney remedial experts. Secure Your Free Quote Now!