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Magnesite Flooring Removal Service Sydney

At Concrete Cancer Repairs Sydney, we provide professional, dust-free magnesite flooring removal designed for safety, efficiency, and speed. Our licensed and fully insured team uses modern tools, advanced dust extraction systems, and comprehensive protective equipment to ensure your property stays clean and secure throughout the process.

We focus on delivering exceptional results with minimal disruption to your home or business, giving you a smooth, ready-to-renovate surface every time.

What Does It Cost To Remove Magnesite Flooring? – Typical Sydney Price Guide

The cost of removing magnesite flooring can vary — depending on the size of the job, the condition of the floor, whether asbestos testing/removal is needed, and what additional work (e.g. concrete grinding, levelling, slab repair) is required. As of 2026, here’s a useful ballpark breakdown for a job in Sydney:

Typical Cost Breakdown

Magnesite Flooring Removal: $42 / Per Square Metre
Concrete Grinding: $10 – $60 / Per Square Metre
Floor Levelling: $40 – $65 / Per Square Metre
Concrete Cancer Repairs: $100 / Per Litre
Disposal of all Waste: $300 – $750

What Affects The Final Cost?

Size of the Area (m²) — Larger areas generally reduce the cost per square metre.
Access and Logistics — Apartments, stairs, lift access or lack thereof can increase labour.
Need for Extra Thick Floor Levelling Pours — A thicker pour will increase the total project cost.
Condition of Slab — Concrete slab that show signs of damage or “concrete cancer,” add to the cost.
Presence of Asbestos — Asbestos will add additional cost due to specialised handling, lab testing and safe disposal.

What Is Magnesite Flooring?

Magnesite flooring is a type of slab topping commonly found in older Australian residential and commercial buildings, especially those constructed from the 1920s through to the late 1980s. It was frequently used as an underlay beneath carpet or as a finished surface because it offered good insulation, was lightweight, and could be installed quickly over concrete slabs.

While it was once considered an innovative building material, magnesite has since proven to be problematic—particularly in moisture-prone environments.

How Magnesite Flooring Was Made

Magnesite flooring is created using Magnesium Oxychloride Cement, a compound formed by mixing caustic magnesia with a magnesium chloride solution. To bulk up the mixture and improve its insulating qualities, manufacturers commonly added fillers such as:

– Sawdust
– Wood fibres
– Cork granules
– Other lightweight materials
– And in some cases, asbestos—especially in older installations

This mixture was then poured over concrete slabs to create a smooth, level surface.

Why Magnesite Flooring Becomes A Problem

Although durable in its early years, magnesite has a major vulnerability: moisture. Over time, even small levels of dampness or humidity can cause:

– Concrete spalling
– Release of chloride salts
– Breakdown of the material
– Corrosion of reinforcing steel
– Full structural deterioration (concrete cancer)

Because of these issues, magnesite flooring is now considered outdated and hazardous—especially when asbestos is present.

What Does Magnesite Flooring Look Like?

Magnesite flooring has a very distinct appearance, making it fairly easy to identify once you know what to look for. In Australian buildings, it is most commonly seen in a brown or tan colour, while versions installed in Europe and other regions may have a reddish or pinkish tint. These colour variations come from the different fillers, binders, and aggregates used during manufacturing.

Does Magnesite Need To Be Tested For Asbestos?

Yes, magnesite flooring MUST be tested for asbestos before any removal, grinding, or disturbance takes place. Many older construction materials used throughout Australia, including magnesite, vinyl tiles, lino, adhesives, and textured “popcorn” ceilings, were historically manufactured with asbestos. When these materials are disturbed, they can release hazardous airborne fibres that pose serious health risks.

Why Asbestos Testing Is Essential

Common Building Materials Contained Asbestos:
Magnesite flooring installed before the 1990s may contain asbestos or asbestos-contaminated compounds. Without proper testing, homeowners risk unknowingly exposing themselves and their neighbours to dangerous fibres.

Disturbance Releases Hazardous Particles:
Removal activities such as chipping, grinding, or lifting flooring can release microscopic asbestos fibres into the air. These fibres can remain airborne for long periods and are extremely harmful when inhaled.

Required Under Australian Work Health & Safety Laws:
NSW regulations mandate asbestos identification before disturbing any suspect material. A failure to test beforehand can lead to:

– Legal penalties
– Work stoppages
– Costly remediation bills
– Contamination of living spaces

Who Should Perform The Testing?

Asbestos sampling and analysis must be carried out by a licensed and accredited asbestos testing professional—for example, AIRSAFE or another NATA-accredited laboratory. A specialist will:

– Perform safe sample collection
– Advise on safe removal procedures if required
– Analyse the material under laboratory conditions
– Provide a formal report confirming whether asbestos is present

This ensures you receive accurate, compliant results and complete peace of mind before starting your magnesite flooring removal project.

Do You Need Strata Approval To Remove Magnesite Flooring? – Important Rules for NSW Owners

Yes, you must obtain strata approval before removing magnesite flooring from your unit. Because magnesite is legally classified as common property in most strata schemes, its removal cannot begin without formal authorisation from the strata committee or owners corporation.

Why Strata Approval Is Mandatory

Magnesite Is Treated as Common Property
In Australian strata buildings, the magnesite layer is typically bonded directly to the structural concrete slab. This connection makes it part of the common property, not your individual lot. Any work that affects common property requires approval under strata law.

Asbestos Testing Is Essential:
Older magnesite flooring products (pre-1990s) may contain asbestos. Before any removal begins, a licensed asbestos assessor should test the material to ensure compliance with NSW Work Health and Safety regulations. This protects the building, workers, and all residents.

Multiple Quotes Are Usually Required:
Most strata committees require two or three quotes before approving any work on common property. Be prepared to source quotes from licensed and insured contractors, such as Concrete Cancer Repairs Sydney, to streamline the approval process.

Written Approval Is Required Before Work Starts:
You will generally need written consent from the strata committee or owners corporation before engaging a contractor. Carrying out removal without approval may result in:

– By-law breaches
– Compliance issues
– Insurance complications
– Potential disputes with the strata committee

Will Your Strata Cover Magnesite Flooring Removal Costs? – What Owners Need To Know in 2026

If you live in a strata-titled property in Australia and have magnesite flooring, understanding who is legally responsible for paying for its removal and any related concrete repairs is essential. As of 2026, your financial responsibility depends on whether your strata scheme has updated its by-laws.

When Strata By-Laws Have NOT Been Updated

If your building’s by-laws remain unchanged, your strata committee is generally responsible for all works involving the magnesite and the concrete beneath it. This typically includes:

– Concrete Grinding
– Disposal of all Waste
– Magnesite Flooring Removal
– Concrete Cancer Inspections & Repairs

Under Australian strata law, magnesite flooring and the structural concrete slab are classified as common property, meaning the strata must maintain, repair, and remediate them.

When Strata By-Laws HAVE Been Updated

Some strata committees have amended their by-laws to shift responsibility to owners. If this applies to your building, strata may only cover:

– Concrete Cancer Inspections & Repairs

Meanwhile, you, the lot owner, may be responsible for:

– Floor Levelling
– Concrete Grinding
– Disposal of all Waste
– Magnesite Flooring Removal

These by-law changes are becoming more common, particularly in buildings trying to reduce ongoing maintenance costs. Always review your current by-laws before assuming anything is covered.

Who Pays For Floor Levelling, Old Flooring Removal & New Flooring Installation?

Regardless of your strata’s stance on magnesite:

– You always pay for floor levelling.
– You are responsible for installing your new flooring system.
– You are responsible for removing any existing flooring above the magnesite (tiles, carpet, timber, floating floors).

These components are considered part of your individual lot, not common property.

Who Pays For Concrete Cancer Repairs?

Whether the by-laws have changed or not, concrete cancer repairs remain the responsibility of the strata. If the sinking fund cannot cover the full cost, the committee will issue special levies to raise the required funds.

Concrete cancer is a structural issue—strata must address it to maintain building safety and compliance.

Don’t Be Misled—Magnesite MUST Be Removed

Sadly, many owners are incorrectly advised by strata committees or property managers who either misunderstand the law or want to delay costs. You may hear statements like:

“Just level over the top.”
“You don’t need to remove it.”
“The magnesite is still in good condition.”
“New flooring can be installed straight over it.”

All of these claims are false.

Magnesite naturally deteriorates with age, releases corrosive chlorides, and accelerates concrete cancer. Leaving it in place risks serious structural damage and can result in expensive rework—none of which strata will reimburse.

Skipping removal is a costly gamble you should never take.

Need Expert Guidance?

If you’re unsure about your obligations or need professional assistance, the team at Concrete Cancer Repairs Sydney can help. We specialise in magnesite flooring removal, concrete grinding, and concrete cancer assessment across Sydney and NSW. CONTACT US NOW.

FREE Concrete Cancer Inspections With Every Magnesite Flooring Removal Job!

At Concrete Cancer Repairs Sydney, we provide a FREE professional Concrete Cancer Inspection with every magnesite flooring removal project. Once the magnesite is removed and the slab is fully ground back, our specialists carry out a detailed evaluation of the exposed concrete to identify any early signs of deterioration, corrosion, or structural damage.

Early detection of concrete cancer is critical. Catching issues such as rust staining, hairline cracking, concrete spalling and moisture-related breakdown can save you thousands in future repair costs. Our experienced technicians thoroughly assess the slab for all known warning indicators, ensuring your concrete is structurally sound, safe, and ready for any necessary remediation or restoration work.

This added inspection ensures you receive maximum value and long-term protection, making your magnesite flooring removal not just a clean up, but an investment in the health of your building.

How To Get Started With Your Magnesite Flooring Removal Project

Beginning a magnesite flooring removal project involves more than simply hiring a contractor — it requires coordination with strata, compliance with building regulations, and proper planning to ensure the job is carried out safely and professionally. Understanding the process early helps prevent delays and ensures your project runs smoothly from start to finish.

Confirm Strata Approval Before Work Begins:
Because magnesite flooring is generally classified as common property, most buildings require written approval from the strata committee before any removal or remediation work can commence. Contact your strata manager or body corporate to verify the approval process and ensure that your project aligns with your building’s regulations and by-laws.

Review Strata Bylaws & Understand Financial Responsibilities:
Every strata scheme operates differently. Some buildings may cover the entire cost of magnesite removal and concrete repair, while others may only fund essential remediation such as concrete cancer treatment. Reviewing your strata bylaws or speaking directly with your strata manager will clarify what expenses you are responsible for and what may be covered by the building.

Schedule a Professional Site Inspection & Receive a Detailed Quote:
A thorough on-site assessment is essential for determining the scope of work. Our experienced technicians will inspect the condition of your magnesite, identify underlying structural or moisture issues, and provide a comprehensive, obligation-free quote tailored to your property’s specific needs.

Organise Asbestos Testing Before Any Work Commences:
Many older magnesite installations may contain asbestos. For safety and legal compliance, we recommend arranging testing through a certified provider such as airsafe.net.au to obtain an asbestos clearance certificate before removal begins. This ensures the project can proceed safely and in accordance with Australian standards.

Obtain Multiple Quotes if Required by Strata:
Your strata committee may request two to three quotes to compare pricing, qualifications, and service inclusions. Gathering these early helps streamline the approval process and avoids unnecessary delays, ensuring your project can move forward efficiently.

Approval Granted — Work Begins:
Once strata approval is secured and all assessments are complete, our team will begin the magnesite removal process and any required subfloor remediation. All work is carried out with precision, strict safety protocols, and industry-leading equipment to ensure a high-quality finish and long-term structural stability.

Can A New Flooring System Be Installed Over Magnesite?

No, installing any new flooring system directly over magnesite is never recommended and poses a serious risk to the long-term safety of your property. Magnesite floors, which are commonly found in buildings 40–100 years old, absorb moisture over time. This moisture travels into the concrete slab below, often causing concrete cancer, subfloor instability, and significant structural deterioration.

Even when the magnesite surface looks dry and intact, the damage underneath is often extensive and completely concealed. Installing new flooring over weakened, moisture-affected magnesite can result in movement, failure, cracking, and—at worst—partial floor collapse, creating both safety hazards and costly repairs.

Why Magnesite Removal Is Essential Before Installing New Flooring

Magnesite was originally used as a lightweight levelling and acoustic material—not as a permanent substrate. Leaving it beneath a new flooring system introduces multiple risks, including:

Moisture Absorption & Concrete Cancer:
Magnesite naturally retains moisture, which accelerates corrosion and structural breakdown of the concrete slab.

Subfloor Damage That Isn’t Visible:
The concrete underneath may already be failing even if the surface appears fine.

Potential Asbestos Contamination:
Certain older magnesite installations contain asbestos, creating a serious health risk if disturbed.

Void Warranties & Installation Refusals:
Most flooring manufacturers and installers will not install or warranty any flooring system over magnesite because of the high failure rate.

Can Floor Levelling Compounds Be Applied Over Magnesite Flooring?

No, floor levelling compounds should never be installed over magnesite flooring. Regardless of whether the levelling product is from Ardit, Ardex, Mapei, Sika, or any other trusted manufacturer, it will not bond reliably to magnesite. This is because magnesite is a moisture-sensitive and chemically unstable material that continues to break down over time. When a Floor Levelling compound is applied on top, the deterioration beneath the surface leads to cracking, debonding, hollow patches, and long-term failure.

To achieve a durable, compliant, and long-lasting flooring base, all magnesite must be professionally removed and the concrete slab must be mechanically prepared. This includes Concrete Grinding the slab, addressing moisture issues, repairing cracks, spalling and Concrete Cancer as well as ensuring the substrate is clean, stable, and ready for a modern levelling compound to bond effectively.

Skipping these essential preparation steps is one of the most common causes of flooring failure in older Sydney buildings. For reliable results and a stable foundation, proper magnesite removal and substrate preparation are mandatory before any levelling compound is installed.

Can Magnesite Flooring Be Repaired?

No, magnesite flooring cannot and should not be repaired. Any attempt to patch, fill, or resurface magnesite is only a temporary bandaid that fails to address the underlying chemical breakdown occurring within the slab. These patch repairs typically fail quickly, leading to renewed cracking, moisture absorption, and further structural deterioration.

The only correct long-term solution is complete magnesite flooring removal. Once removed, the concrete can be properly assessed, dried, and prepared for a modern floor levelling compound that adheres safely and delivers a stable, durable finish.

Magnesite was commonly installed across Australia between the 1920s and 1980s, long before its long-term risks were fully understood. Over time, it was discovered that magnesite can react with moisture and cause serious concrete deterioration, often contributing to issues such as Concrete Cancer. This has led to millions of dollars in remediation work across Sydney and other major cities.

If your property still contains magnesite flooring, it is critical not to delay action. Professional removal protects your building from further damage, preserves structural integrity, and ensures compliance with modern Australian building standards.

How Do We Handle Waste Disposal?

For small to medium jobs, we take all rubbish to a local resource management centre for disposal.

For larger jobs, we may have the client hire a skip bin.

What Areas In Sydney Do We Service?

Our Concrete Cancer Repair specialists work throughout the greater Sydney region.

We service:

– Sydney
– St George
– Newcastle
– Inner West
– Wollongong
– Sydney CBD
– The Hills Shire
– Eastern Suburbs
– Sutherland Shire
– Northern Sydney
– Northern Beaches
– North West & Ryde
– Lower North Shore
– Upper North Shore
– South West Sydney
– Greater Western Sydney

We can take on any job at any time. No matter how big the job is, we’ll take it on!

Click Here To Learn More About The Areas In Australia That We Service

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Dust-Free Magnesite Floor Removal Service Sydney

Why Choose Concrete Cancer Repairs Sydney for Your Magnesite Flooring Removal and Concrete Repair Needs?

At Concrete Cancer Repairs Sydney, we bring extensive experience and professional expertise to every magnesite flooring removal project. Here’s why our clients trust us:

Dust-Free Technology:
We utilise advanced dust extraction systems to minimise airborne particles, keeping your worksite cleaner and safer. This technology also cuts down significantly on post-job cleaning, protecting your property throughout the process.

Over 35 Years of Experience:
With over 35 years in the industry, our team has handled all types of flooring removal—from magnesite and vinyl to tiles and carpet. We understand the intricacies of each material and ensure a safe, efficient removal every time.

Fully Licensed and Insured:
We operate with all the required licenses and insurance, providing peace of mind that every project is compliant, professional, and protected.

Full-Service Floor Preparation:
We don’t just stop at removing your old flooring. We prepare your concrete slab through grinding and adhesive removal as well as floor levelling, making it perfectly ready for the installation of your new flooring—whether it’s tiles, vinyl, carpet, floorboards or polished concrete, etc.

Competitive Pricing with Price Match Guarantee:
We pride ourselves on offering great value. If you find a written quote from a competitor, we’ll beat it by up to 10%*, ensuring high-quality results at the best price.

Customer-Focused Approach:
Your satisfaction is our priority. We strive for excellent communication, professional service, and exceptional results on every project.

State-of-the-Art Equipment:
We use modern, high-quality tools to speed up the process while keeping disruption and mess to a minimum.

Tailored Solutions for Every Job:
No two projects are the same. We assess your specific situation and provide a customised approach for magnesite removal and concrete repair.

High-Quality, Compliant Materials:
All our materials meet Australian standards for durability, strength, and performance under local conditions.

Personalised Concrete Repair Plans:
We carefully examine each instance of concrete cancer to design a repair strategy that addresses both the root cause and the severity of damage.

Long-Term Warranty Options:
We stand behind our work. Depending on the product and repair system used, our repairs come with warranties of 7–30 years, giving you confidence in the longevity of your concrete.

Our Magnesite Floor Removal Process

At Concrete Cancer Repairs Sydney, we specialise in safe, thorough, and efficient magnesite floor removal. Our team ensures your floors are prepared for a durable and flawless new surface, all while minimising dust and disruption to your property.

Comprehensive Assessment:
Before any work begins, our experts carry out a detailed inspection of your magnesite flooring. This allows us to identify the extent of damage and create a customised removal plan, ensuring a smooth and efficient process from start to finish.

Safe Dust-Free Removal:
We use professional-grade tools and high-efficiency dust extraction systems to remove your magnesite flooring safely. This approach keeps your environment clean, protecting both your property and health from harmful dust.

Thorough Surface Preparation:
Once the magnesite is removed, we grind the concrete surface to eliminate any remaining residue. This step creates a perfectly smooth and stable base, ready for the application of a high-quality floor levelling compound.

Responsible Clean-Up and Waste Disposal:
Our team manages all debris removal and disposal, ensuring your space is left spotless. We take care of everything, so you don’t need to worry about hiring additional skip bins or waste management services.

Concrete Cancer Inspection and Repairs:
Before laying any new flooring, we perform a comprehensive concrete cancer inspection. Any damage found is repaired professionally to prevent future issues and extend the lifespan of your floor.

Professional Floor Levelling:
After repairs, we apply a premium floor levelling agent to guarantee a perfectly even surface. This ensures your new flooring system adheres correctly and looks flawless.

New Flooring Supply and Installation:
Finally, we provide a complete re-supply and professional installation service for your chosen flooring system, delivering a fresh, durable, and attractive floor that transforms your space.

Add-On Services For A Complete Solution For Your Project

Alongside magnesite flooring removal, Concrete Cancer Repairs Sydney offers a full suite of related services to prepare your floors for their next stage. These include:

– Floor Levelling
– Flooring Removal
– Concrete Grinding
– Concrete Crack Repairs
– Concrete Cancer Repairs
– Concrete Spalling Repairs
– Free Concrete Cancer Inspections
– Waterproofing Membrane Removal
– Waterproofing Membrane Installation
– Supply & Installation Of A New Flooring System

This makes us a one-stop solution for floor preparation services across Sydney.

Why Choose Concrete Cancer Repairs Sydney’s Team?

We’re not just another contractor — we’re Sydney’s most trusted name in professional magnesite flooring removal.

Here’s why clients choose us over and over again:

REPUTATION & REVIEWS

✔ 10+ verified 5-star reviews across Facebook
✔ Trusted by thousands of homeowners, builders, and property managers

EQUIPMENT, TOOLS & MATERIALS

✔ Highest quality materials used ONLY
✔ Industrial grinders with precision tooling
✔ 100% dust-free with commercial HEPA vacuum systems
✔ No shortcuts, no rental gear — we own all our machinery

PRICE BEAT GUARANTEE

✔ Clear, upfront pricing — no hidden fees
✔ We’ll beat any written quote by up to 10%

COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE

✔ Free advice and site inspections
✔ We handle a massive range of services (over 125+)

PROFESSIONALISM

✔ Clean, polite, on-time, and responsive
✔ Fully insured, certified, and OH&S compliant
✔ We leave your space spotless — no dust, no drama

Ready For A Magnesite Removal Quote?

We offer Sydney-wide magnesite removal services, expert advice, and fast turnarounds — From small home residential jobs, to STRATA, Government and Complex Industrial projects, we do it all!

CALL US NOW 0424 408 330
Or fill out our Online Contact Form, and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours or less

✔ We beat competitor quotes by up to 10%
✔ Dust-Free guaranteed
✔ Over 10+ positive reviews
✔ Fully insured and compliant
✔ Sydney-wide availability

Don’t risk your health, your concrete, or your time — trust Sydney’s magnesite removal experts.

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