While it will last well over 30 years, performance comes at a price, which is maintenance. Weak points are at the areas where railings penetrate to the wood subfloor. Movement in the railings invariably allows the cement to crack a bit, leading to water penetration if not caulked. Cracks that appear on the surface need to be treated and the surface resealed about every 18 months.
Classic styling, durability and uniqueness will keep this product around for a while; keep up on the maintenance and it will last and last.
WARNING - Magnesite made prior to 1972 was manufactured with asbestos in it. If you are working on buildings built through 1974 you are advised to test for the presence of asbestos prior to removing any Magnesite. Contractors in California are REQUIRED to have a license for asbestos removal on any amount of area over 100 square feet. Exposure to asbestos is hazardous and continued exposure may cause cancer. Removal of Magnesite without mitigation could expose Building owners, HOA's and others to potential liability for exposing tenants, owners, visitors and workers to asbestos. Proposition 65 signs need to be installed if they are not already. Visit www.cslb.ca.gov for further information on asbestos.
View the Maintenance Instructions for Magnesite. We recommend that you use our Questions to Ask list that we developed that will help you understand the different deck coatings you might be presented with.
