When evaluating epoxy flooring options for your business, it’s important to balance durability, aesthetics, and cost. One question many decision-makers ask is whether decorative epoxy flakes come at a higher price compared to other epoxy finishes.
At CustomCrete, we’ve installed a wide variety of epoxy flooring systems across Chicago—from basic solid-color coatings to full broadcast flake systems. In this blog, we’ll break down what goes into the cost of flake epoxy flooring, how it compares to other types, and what to expect when planning your next flooring project.
What Is Flake Epoxy Flooring?
Flake epoxy, also known as chip or broadcast epoxy, includes colored vinyl flakes or chips that are broadcast across a base layer of epoxy and sealed in place with a topcoat. The result is a textured, visually dynamic surface that’s both attractive and highly functional.
Flake epoxy is popular in:
- Retail spaces
- Commercial kitchens
- Break rooms
- Bathrooms & Locker rooms
- Garages
- Healthcare and educational facilities
Its benefits include slip resistance, scratch and stain resistance, and the ability to hide imperfections in the concrete.
Is Flake Epoxy More Expensive Than Other Epoxy Types?
In most cases, yes—flake epoxy tends to cost more than solid-color or clear epoxy systems. This is due to several added steps and materials involved in the installation process:
1. More Materials Are Used
A flake epoxy system requires a base coat, decorative flakes, and one or more topcoats. The flakes themselves add material cost, and thicker topcoats are often required to fully encapsulate the flakes and create a smooth finish.
2. Additional Labor Time
Broadcasting flakes, ensuring even distribution, and applying additional layers takes more time than a simple roll-on epoxy coat. Projects with full coverage (100% flake broadcast) are especially labor-intensive.
3. Customization and Design Options
Flake epoxy floors come in a wide variety of colors and flake blends, which can be tailored to match branding or design preferences. Customization tends to increase overall cost compared to off-the-shelf solutions.
Typical Cost Range
Here’s a general comparison of installed costs for various epoxy floor types:
- Basic Solid Color Epoxy: $5 – $8 per sq. ft.
- Epoxy Flake System: $7 – $10 per sq. ft.
- Quartz Epoxy System: $9 – $13 per sq. ft.
- Metallic Epoxy Flooring: $10 – $15 per sq. ft.
Keep in mind that prices vary based on:
- Size of the project
- Surface preparation requirements
- Thickness of coating system
- Type and amount of flake coverage
- Curing time and number of coats
Is Flake Epoxy Worth the Extra Cost?
In many cases, absolutely. While flake systems may cost more up front, they often offer longer lifespan, better resistance to daily wear, and improved safety and aesthetics.
Advantages of Flake Epoxy:
- Slip resistance: Textured surface reduces fall risks.
- Visual appeal: Adds dimension and color, hiding imperfections.
- Stain resistance: Topcoats help prevent penetration of oils, chemicals, and spills.
- Durability: Stronger than thin epoxy coatings; better impact resistance.
These features can make flake epoxy more cost-effective over the long term, particularly in high-traffic or appearance-focused environments.
When to Choose Flake Epoxy
Flake epoxy is an excellent choice when:
- You want a decorative finish without sacrificing durability
- Slip resistance is important for safety
- Your concrete has imperfections or patching you want to disguise
- You’re looking to align the floor with your brand’s color scheme
If cost is the top concern, a solid-color epoxy may be more budget-friendly. But if appearance and performance are both high priorities, epoxy flakes deliver strong value.
Final Thoughts
While flake epoxy systems generally cost more than standard epoxy floors, they offer enhanced performance, safety, and aesthetic appeal—making them a smart investment for many commercial and industrial environments.
Understanding the cost of epoxy flakes in comparison to other flooring systems can help you make the right choice for your budget and your space.
At CustomCrete, we work with clients across Chicago to design epoxy flooring systems that balance form and function. Ready to compare your epoxy flooring options? Reach out for a quote tailored to your project.
