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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.



Transforming lives: 7 key insights from Garage Living Franchise owners
Owning a Garage Living franchise isn’t just about transforming garages—it’s about transforming lives. Every project is a unique journey, culminating in the moment when clients step into their newly revamped space, their faces lighting up with amazement and joy. For franchise owners, those smiles make it all worthwhile.

How In-Garage Delivery Makes Online Shopping Safer and Easier
Convenience is more important to consumers now than ever before. The ability to buy products with just a few taps or clicks on our devices and have them conveniently brought to our doorsteps has rapidly transformed how we shop. As online shopping continues to evolve, so do the options for delivery. In-garage delivery is one of the most innovative advancements in this space.

The benefits of investing in a Garage Living Franchise
Investing in a franchise can be a great way to start your own business while leveraging the support and recognition of an established brand. One franchise opportunity gaining traction is Garage Living. This franchise focuses on transforming ordinary garages into exceptional spaces with custom storage solutions and high-quality products. Year after year, Garage Living continues to demonstrate steady and consistent growth, solidifying our position as a leader in the industry. In 2024, we're proud to be ranked #476 on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500, a testament to our thriving franchise system. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of investing in a Garage Living franchise and why it could be the right entrepreneurial venture for you.

Elevate Your Garage: Unveiling the Garage Living Designer Series
A garage makeover can vary greatly depending on the client. Some homeowners envision a specific look and functionality for their space right from the start. Others might have a general aesthetic in mind, while many lack awareness of the latest garage decor and storage solutions. Regardless of how developed their vision is, everyone seeking the services of a trusted garage professional shares the same goal: to transform their garage into something remarkable.

Small Space, Big Solutions: Maximize Your Storage with The Parking Locker
The urban landscape is changing. Condos are on the rise everywhere, offering the convenience of walkable neighborhoods and fostering a sense of community. But with this vertical living trend comes a significant downside – a constant battle against limited storage space.


The Ultimate Guide to Smart Garages: Solutions and Considerations
The smart home revolution isn't confined to living rooms and kitchens. It's extending its reach to previously unconnected areas, like the garage. For many, the garage is a crucial entry point and valuable storage space. By incorporating smart technology, you can transform your garage into a more convenient, secure, and user-friendly area. This guide delves into the exciting world of smart garages, exploring the latest solutions, important considerations, and the innovative trends that are transforming this once-underutilized space.

Beyond Parking: Garage Upgrades for Increased Functionality & ROI
Your garage is more than just a parking space. It's a hidden gem waiting to be unleashed, a potential goldmine of storage, functionality, and even additional living space. But unlocking its true value requires a strategic investment. Here's how renovating your garage can significantly improve your ROI, both financially and personally. Enhanced Functionality, elevated lifestyle * Goodbye clutter: Imagine a streamlined garage, free from chaotic piles and overflowing shelves. Invest in custom storage solutions, like cabinets, slatwalls, and overhead racks, to reclaim your space and transform it into an organized oasis. * Expand your home within your garage: Thinking about moving for more space? Your garage might hold the key. Consider transforming it into a functional living area. Imagine a dedicated playroom, home office, or even an additional bedroom, all conveniently accessible within your existing home. * Unleash your inner hobbyist: Do you dream of a dedicated workshop, craft room, or home gym? A renovated garage becomes your personal haven for pursuing your passions, adding immeasurable value to your daily life. * Entertain in style: Convert your garage into a versatile hangout space for barbecues, game nights, or even an outdoor movie theater. Add a patio, retractable screens, and comfortable seating to create the ultimate entertainment zone. Financial Gain from Practical Upgrades * Increased property value: Studies show that a well-designed garage renovation can add 5-10% to your home's value, translating to a significant financial return when you sell. * Reduced storage costs: Eliminate off-site storage fees by maximizing your garage's potential. Store seasonal items, bikes, tools, and more within your own organized space. * Energy efficiency savings: Consider insulated garage doors, LED lighting, and ventilation systems to improve energy efficiency, lowering your utility bills and boosting your long-term savings. Beyond the Numbers * Reduced stress and clutter: A more organized, functional garage means less time spent searching for misplaced items and less stress navigating chaos. Invest in your peace of mind and well-being. * Improved quality of life: Enjoy the satisfaction of a well-organized space dedicated to your hobbies, entertainment, or simply additional living area. The Takeaway Investing in your garage's renovation isn't just about numbers. It's about creating a space that reflects your needs, enhances your life, and adds tangible value to your property. Consider the long-term benefits, not just the initial cost, and unlock the true potential of your garage. Unleash Your Dream Garage: Get Professional Advice & Book Your Consultation Today!