Hi there,
I recently bought a house and had to remove the carpet in all bedrooms. I got a carpet guy to come in to give me a quote and he told me that the stuff on top of the concrete slab was called “magnesite”.
I did a bit of research and read that magnesite could damage the concrete slab when exposed to water. I’m not a builder but the magnesite does not look too bad overall. It does sound “drummy" on some spots but there’s no major cracks/holes. The worst small section is along the bathroom wall where I know a leak has previously occurred as the skirting board was rotten (but very dry when I removed it). I think I would have no problem there to remove that small section using a screwdriver - the remaining area would need to be removed using light jack hammer really.
What is the best way to actually test if it is magnesite? Is there different grade/quality of magnesite? If so, are some more problematic than others?
Anyway, I think I’m now faced with 2 options:
1/ Remove the magnesite in all bedrooms and put a new overlay and a new flooring
2/ Leave the magnesite and put a new flooring.
I’m willing to take the time and efforts to remove the magnesite myself. It won’t be pleasant but it seems safer. The main question I’d like to ask you all is what is the best way to fill in the gap left by the magnesite?
Is a “self-leveling overlay” my best option? Is it the only option? If so, what product should be used? Is that something that a professional should be doing or can I do it myself?
Any idea on how much would it cost to get it professionally done? (Total area is around 50 sqm total and 15 millimetres in thickness)
Thanks for your time.
B.