Epoxy Flake Floors in Bismarck, ND

Epoxy flake floors are the finish most Bismarck homeowners choose for a garage, and the reason is practical. All winter, sand and dried brine land on the floor in a thin gray film. On a solid-color coating that film shows right away. On a flake floor, the multicolored chips break up the surface so the floor looks clean longer, and the texture of the chips gives better footing when the slab is wet.

How a flake system goes together

A flake floor is built in layers. First the concrete is diamond ground and repaired. A pigmented base coat goes down, and while it is still wet, we throw vinyl chips across the whole floor until no more will stick. That is called a full broadcast. After the base cures, we scrape and vacuum the loose chips, and then roll on one or two clear topcoats that lock the flakes in place. The topcoat controls how smooth or textured the finish feels.

Chip size and color

Flakes come in several sizes. Larger chips give a bolder pattern and a little more texture. Smaller chips look finer and read as one color from a distance. Most blends mix three to five colors. Grays and tans hide sand well, and darker blends hide tire marks. We bring physical samples so you can see them in your garage light instead of on a screen.

Full broadcast or partial

A full broadcast covers the floor completely in chips. A partial broadcast scatters fewer flakes over a solid color base, which looks more like terrazzo and shows more of the base color. Full broadcast floors hide more dirt and have more texture, which is why we recommend them for most garages in this climate. Partial broadcast suits basements, laundry rooms and spaces with less grit.

The topcoat matters

The clear coat over the chips takes the wear. Sand ground under tires and boots scratches it over time, and sunlight through an open door can yellow some epoxies. HomeGuide rates standard epoxy's UV resistance as poor to fair and polyaspartic's as excellent, so we usually top flake floors with a polyaspartic clear coat. On floors that need extra grip, we add an aggregate to the topcoat.

Where flake floors fit

• Two- and three-stall attached garages in newer neighborhoods
• Detached garages and shops where winter grit is heavy
• Mudrooms and entryways with concrete floors
• Basement utility rooms and workshops
• Shop condos and small commercial spaces that want a clean look

Keeping a flake floor looking right

Sweep or blow out sand often during winter. Squeegee meltwater toward the door, rinse every few weeks during the snow months, and use a pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid harsh acids or solvents on the topcoat.