Planning a chic new kitchen or a spa-like bathroom renovation in your Sydney apartment? Before you start picking out tiles and tapware, there’s a hidden danger you need to address: magnesite flooring. This once-popular flooring material, used extensively in buildings from the 1920s to the 1980s, is a ticking time bomb for structural damage and budget blowouts. At Elyment Group, we've seen firsthand the chaos that undiscovered magnesite can cause. Here’s what you need to know to protect your investment and ensure your renovation is a success. What is Magnesite and Why is it a Problem? Magnesite is a cement-like topping that was poured over concrete slabs to provide a smooth, level surface. While it seemed like a good idea at the time, magnesite has a fatal flaw: it’s highly absorbent. When exposed to moisture—a common occurrence in kitchens and bathrooms—it releases chlorides that seep into the concrete slab below. This triggers a destructive process known as “concrete cancer,” where the steel reinforcements within the concrete begin to rust and expand, causing the concrete to crack and crumble. Key Dangers of Magnesite Flooring: Structural Damage: Over time, magnesite can cause significant structural damage to your building, leading to costly repairs. Health Risks: Older magnesite installations may contain asbestos, a known carcinogen. Disturbing this material without proper precautions can release harmful fibres into the air. Financial Burden: What starts as a cosmetic renovation can quickly turn into a major structural repair project, with costs spiralling into the tens of thousands. Don't Risk It: Why Removal is Non-Negotiable Some contractors might suggest simply covering over the magnesite with a new flooring system. This is a short-sighted solution that will only trap moisture and accelerate the damage. The only way to truly protect your property and your investment is to have the magnesite professionally removed. The team at Elyment Group are experts in magnesite removal. We use specialised equipment and techniques to safely and efficiently remove the magnesite, preparing your subfloor for a flawless new finish. You can follow us on X at @ElymentGroup for more insights. The Magnesite Removal Process Here’s what you can expect when you work with a professional for magnesite removal: Assessment: A thorough inspection to determine the extent of the magnesite and any existing damage. Asbestos Testing: If there's any suspicion of asbestos, a sample will be sent to a lab for testing. Safe Removal: The magnesite is carefully removed using dust-minimising techniques to protect the health of you and your family. Concrete Repair: Any “concrete cancer” is treated, and the concrete slab is repaired to ensure its structural integrity. Surface Preparation: The subfloor is ground and levelled to create a perfect base for your new flooring. Key Takeaways Magnesite flooring is a common problem in older Sydney apartments. It absorbs moisture and causes "concrete cancer," leading to structural damage. Magnesite may contain asbestos, posing a serious health risk. Always have magnesite professionally removed before renovating. Ready to start your renovation with confidence? Contact the experts at Elyment Group for a consultation and a quote for magnesite removal. Don't let a hidden problem derail your dream renovation. Run Your AI-Powered Magnesite Risk Check Now! .btn { background-color: #022b5f; /* Deep trust blue */ color: white; border: none; padding: 12px 26px; border-radius: 6px; cursor: pointer; text-align: center; display: inline-block; margin-top: 20px; transition: background-color 0.3s ease, box-shadow 0.3s ease, transform 0.2s ease; box-shadow: 0 0 10px rgba(2, 43, 95, 0.5); /* Initial glow */ font-weight: 600; text-decoration: none; } .btn:hover { background-color: #16443e; /* Hover color */ box-shadow: 0 0 20px rgba(22, 70, 138, 0.7); /* Stronger glow */ transform: translateY(-2px); /* Lift effect */ }