Is your Sydney apartment a potential ticking time bomb? For many residents, the answer lies hidden beneath their floors. In older buildings across Sydney, particularly those constructed between the 1920s and 1980s, a material called magnesite was often used as a floor topping. While it seemed like a good idea at the time, we now know that when this material meets water, it can lead to a serious and costly problem: concrete cancer. Let's break down what this means for you and your property. What Is Magnesite and Why Is It a Problem? Magnesite is a water-soluble flooring compound. It was popular for its soundproofing and levelling qualities. However, it's also highly porous, meaning it absorbs moisture like a sponge. When water—from a leaky tap, a cracked balcony, or even high humidity—soaks into the magnesite, it triggers a chemical reaction. This process releases chlorides that then leach into the concrete slab below, corroding the steel reinforcement (rebar) within. The Concrete Cancer Connection Concrete cancer, also known as concrete spalling, is the result of this corrosion. As the steel rebar rusts, it expands to several times its original volume. This expansion puts immense pressure on the surrounding concrete, causing it to crack, flake, and crumble. This isn't just an aesthetic issue; it can severely compromise the structural integrity of your apartment building. The combination of water leaks and magnesite is a double-whammy, accelerating the decay and turning a minor problem into an expensive emergency. For more detailed information, you can reference articles from sources like Elyment.com.au. We've taken inspiration from their expertise to bring you this important information. Signs You Need to Watch For Early detection is crucial. Keep an eye out for these telltale signs: Cracks or Bubbling: Visible cracks in your floor tiles or concrete, or an unusual bubbling under your carpet. Rust Stains: Red or brown rust-coloured stains seeping through the floor. Dampness: Persistently damp or sweaty floors, especially in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Warping or Chipping: Floors that are warping, chipping, or showing signs of delamination. Unpleasant Odours: In some cases, decomposing magnesite can emit strange odours. How to Protect Your Investment and Your Home If you suspect your apartment has a magnesite issue, don’t wait. The longer you leave it, the more extensive and expensive the repairs will be. Here are the key steps to take: Professional Inspection: Engage a remedial building expert who specialises in concrete cancer and magnesite removal in Sydney. They can confirm the presence of magnesite and assess the extent of the damage. Magnesite Removal: If magnesite is present and compromised, it must be removed. This involves carefully stripping the old topping and preparing the concrete slab underneath. Repairs and Prevention: Any damaged concrete will need to be repaired. Following this, new waterproofing membranes should be applied, and a modern, non-porous flooring solution can be installed to prevent future issues. Protecting your property is essential. Addressing this issue now can save you from significant structural damage and protect your investment for years to come. For expert advice and remedial services, you can reach out to the team at @ElymentGroup or visit their website at elyment.com.au. Key Takeaways for Your Sydney Apartment Water leaks combined with old magnesite flooring can lead to concrete cancer. This is a common and serious issue in older Sydney apartments. By knowing the warning signs and acting quickly with professional help, you can protect your home's structural integrity and avoid major repair costs down the line. Stop the Decay. Get a Free Inspection Today!