Introduction
An epoxy flooring installation is one of the best ways to renew tired and worn concrete. The only caveat is choosing the best one for you. If you’re interested in something that’s a little easy to install and is more forgiving when it comes to dirt and stains; go for flake epoxy flooring. However, if you want something more artistic in a commercial setting; metallic epoxy flooring is the way to go. This blog by Babcock Restoration lists a few factors for you to consider as you make your decision.
Picking Between Metallic & Flake: Which Epoxy Is Best For You
Do you want to renew your home’s stained and pitted garage floor? Or are you looking for a treatment for a commercial property instead? While both metallic and flake epoxy are excellent options; there are a few things that are different that you should consider. Metallic is more customizable, but does leave a mark when repaired; on the other hand, flake is comparatively affordable and has more traction. The following section covers several other factors in detail for your perusal.
Read carefully as we list them.
Appearance & Style
The first thing we’re going to do is a floor finish comparison. Metallic flooring has a shiny and deep finish with unique swirls going through the surface. On the other hand, flake coatings are achieved by a multi-colored and textured finish. So, pick accordingly.
Slip Resistance
Another important factor to consider is the friction. Metallic epoxy flooring is sleek and smooth; which makes it highly slippery when wet. On the contrary, flake epoxy has more traction; making it much safer to walk on regardless of moisture or dryness.
Installation Costs
If you’ve got money to spare on the flooring service, a metallic epoxy flooring system is the way to go. In contrast, if you’re looking for results on a budget, a flake epoxy flooring service is much more affordable.
Durability Considerations
While both decorative epoxy floors last several decades, the colorful flakes on the latter make it much easier to hide cracks, stains and chips. But, even the slightest blemish becomes prominent on the smoothness of metallic epoxy flooring.
Installation Complexity
Metallic epoxy coating requires a bit more skill and patience to install as the workers move the colors around by hand to create the unique patterns. Flake epoxy is far easier; only requiring the flakes to be sprinkled when the base is still wet.
Property Type
Is it a residential epoxy flooring service you’re interested in? Or a commercial property that requires the service? Spaces like retail stores and high end offices look best with metallic finishes. But, flakes suit outdoor patios, laundry rooms and garages more.
Repair Complexity
Another important thing to think about before making your decision is the repairs. Due to the unique pattern, it is nearly impossible to ensure seamless repairs on metallic epoxy flooring. But, flakes make repairs much easier to blend right in.
Customization Options
Metal finishes make it very easy to blend different colors and create unique patterns perfect for commercial flooring. But, the flakes come in various styles and color combinations, providing personalization opportunities in a different way.
UV Wear
If you’re looking for decorative epoxy floors for a sunny area, it’s important to remember that both finishes will yellow with time. So, regardless of your choice, make sure to install a top coat to protect it against sun damage.
Maintenance Needs
Metallic epoxy flooring in River Forest, IL, and surrounding areas has a high-gloss finish that requires regular sweeping and gentle cleaning to maintain its polished appearance.
Installation Time
Thanks to the extra effort needed to create the unique swirls in metal epoxy, the surface takes much more time to finish. On the other hand, flake epoxy flooring gets done much faster because it doesn’t require as much precision and consideration.
Conclusion
Picking between metallic and flake epoxy flooring can seem like a bit of a dilemma when you’re trying to refresh your floors. But there are a few things that can help you make the right decision for your space. If the goal is a quick and budget-friendly service for a residential space, you should go for flakes. But, if you want something more high-end and unique and don’t mind the extra upkeep, a metallic epoxy flooring service is the way to go. We hope the blog above was informative. If you have more questions, please reach out to us.
FAQS
How long does metallic epoxy flooring take to install?
Depending on specifics, the entire service takes about a week.
What is the cost of flake epoxy flooring?
A professional installation service costs about $4-13 per square foot.
How do I know I need epoxy flooring services?
If your concrete is dusty, cracked or deeply stained, you need epoxy.