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Behind the flakes: What’s in your garage floor coating?

When homeowners look at a beautifully finished garage floor, it’s easy to focus on the sleek appearance: the shine, the color, the texture. But have you ever wondered what’s actually beneath the surface? Decorative garage floor coatings do more than make your space look great. They play a critical role in protection, safety, and long-term durability. In this first installment of our “Science behind the shine” series, we’re digging into the flakes: what they are, why they matter, and how they affect the performance of your garage floor. What are decorative flakes in a garage floor coating? Also called vinyl chips or color flakes, these small, multi-colored particles are broadcast into the coating system while it’s still wet, embedding into the base coat and locking into the top layer. They're not just for looks, though they definitely deliver on style. Flakes serve a functional purpose too, improving slip resistance, hiding imperfections, and enhancing durability. What are they made of? The most common types of flakes are composed of: Vinyl: Lightweight and flexible, often used in residential garages. Mica: A natural mineral that adds shimmer and depth. Metallic blends: For ultra-modern finishes and industrial spaces. These materials are UV-stable, chemically resistant, and designed to withstand everything from hot tire pickup to seasonal temperature changes. Want to see the difference for yourself? Explore our garage flooring options for side-by-side comparisons. How do flakes affect the longevity of your floor? Flakes do more than just bond visually with the space; they enhance coating performance: Adds slip resistance for safety, especially when wet Strengthens the coating by adding texture and depth Reduces visible wear and tear, including dust, dirt, and scratches. When paired with a polyaspartic premium coat (known for its flexibility and chemical resistance), flakes help extend the life of your floor far beyond a basic DIY paint job or one-coat system. Can you choose your own flake color and blend? Yes, and you should. Customization is one of the major advantages of a professional system. From classic blends to bold combinations, flakes are an easy way to match your floor to your garage’s overall design. For a design-focused approach, explore our Designer Series, where color, texture, and performance come together in curated floor and cabinet combinations. Are all flake floors created equal? Not at all. Here’s what separates a premium decorative flake system from a cheap alternative: Feature Premium system Budget coating Full flake broadcast Yes (wall-to-wall coverage) Often sparse or patchy Base coat chemistry Polyaspartic (Floortex) Epoxy paint UV resistance High (no yellowing over time) Low Slip resistance Built in with topcoat + flake texture Often slippery Professional prep (grinding, leveling) Yes Rarely Learn more about why garage renovation starts with the floor and why skipping proper prep is one of the most common (and costly) mistakes. What questions should you ask before choosing a floor coating? Is the coating system 100% polyaspartic or epoxy? Is it a full broadcast flake system? What prep work is included? Will the floor resist hot tire pickup, salt, and oil stains? Can I customize the flake colors? If you’re not getting straight answers or a clearly defined process, it might be time to talk to a true professional, like Garage Living. Final thought: It’s not just decoration. Decorative flakes combine function, durability, and design, helping your garage stand up to daily wear while looking showroom-ready. So next time you admire the shimmer beneath your feet, remember: there’s a whole science behind that shine. Talk to a Garage Floor expert Have questions about flakes, coatings, or the right floor system for your garage? Talk to a Garage Living Expert today and get personalized recommendations for your space. About the author: Felix is the Content Lead at Garage Living. With over 18 years of experience in e-marketing, web design, and content strategy, Felix blends digital expertise with a passion for storytelling that informs, connects, and inspires. Whether he’s crafting blog content or shaping how customers engage with the brand online, he believes the right words can make any message stand out. Outside the screen, he’s a Barça fan, moviegoer, and avid trekker who brings curiosity and energy to every project.