Flake Epoxy Floors in Fargo & Moorhead
Quick answer: Flake epoxy is a coating system where colored vinyl chips are broadcast into a wet base coat and sealed with a clear topcoat. It hides dirt, adds traction and is the most popular garage floor system in cold climates like Fargo. Call (701) 815-5240 for a free estimate.
If you have seen a garage floor with a speckled, granite-like finish, you have seen a flake epoxy floor. Flake systems have become the standard in the northern United States because they handle the conditions that wreck other garage floors: salt, slush, sand, tire marks and daily scuffing. They are also forgiving. The chip blend visually breaks up any imperfection, so the floor continues to look clean even when it is not.
Fargo Epoxy installs flake epoxy floors in garages, workshops, porches, patios, entryways and some commercial spaces across the Fargo–Moorhead metro. This page explains how the system works and why it is a good fit for the Red River Valley.
How a flake epoxy floor is built
A flake floor is made in layers over a prepared slab:
- Surface preparation. The concrete is diamond-ground to remove weak surface material and to open the pores. Cracks and joints are repaired.
- Base coat. A tinted epoxy base coat is rolled out. Its color becomes the background behind the chips.
- Broadcast. While the base is wet, colored vinyl flakes are thrown into it by hand until the surface is fully covered, either as a partial scatter for a lighter look or as a full broadcast for a solid, textured surface.
- Scrape and clean. After the base cures, loose chips are scraped and removed so the surface is uniform.
- Topcoat. One or more clear coats lock the chips in and form the chemical-resistant wear surface. A polyaspartic or urethane topcoat can be specified for extra UV stability and abrasion resistance.
Each layer adds thickness and protection. The finished floor is typically heavier-duty than a thin roll-on epoxy or paint.
Why flake works in Fargo-area garages
- It hides what winter brings in. Dried salt, sand and tire residue blend into a multi-colored chip pattern.
- It adds natural traction. The flakes and topcoat create a gentle texture, helpful when slush melts off vehicles.
- It conceals slab imperfections. Minor pits, patches and old stains are less visible than under solid color or high gloss.
- It is repairable and cleanable. Sweeping and mopping do the daily work.
- It adds thickness. Multiple coats resist abrasion, hot-tire pickup and chemical exposure better than thin paint-like finishes.
Our cold climate guide explains why seals and bond lines matter so much under freeze-thaw cycles, and garage epoxy vs paint compares flake with the cheaper alternative.
Flake colors and blends
Flake blends are typically sold in mixes of three or more colors, from neutral gray and tan to bold blue, black and red chips. Smaller flakes give a finer, more uniform appearance, while larger chips look more like terrazzo. When choosing, consider:
- Your garage lighting. Mixed blends with some light and some dark chips look good in nearly any lighting.
- Vehicle colors and shop equipment. Neutral blends show less contrast.
- Dust and sand visibility. Mid-tone blends hide dust best. Pure white or pure black floors show everything.
- How much coverage. A full broadcast hides the base coat entirely; a light scatter lets the base color show through for a lighter pattern.
Beyond garages: patios, porches and entries
Flake coatings also work on exterior-adjacent slabs such as covered patios, porches, steps and walkways. For these areas, sunlight and moisture become the main concerns, so a UV-stable topcoat is recommended. Not every exterior slab is a good candidate: concrete that is flaking or scaling from past freeze-thaw damage may need repair or resurfacing first. We assess this at the estimate and tell you plainly if coating is not the right answer.
Flake floors in workshops and light commercial spaces
Workshops, mechanic bays, hobby garages and light commercial areas often use flake systems with a heavier topcoat. The chip pattern hides oil and tire marks, and the topcoat is selected for the chemicals present. For heavy forklift or industrial use, see commercial epoxy flooring.
Cost, timing and next steps
Cost depends on size, slab condition and the topcoat you choose. See the epoxy cost guide for the variables and labeled national ranges. Installation commonly takes one to two days for a typical garage, followed by a cure period before vehicle traffic. Call (701) 815-5240 or use the quote form to schedule a free estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do flake floors last?
Longevity depends on preparation, topcoat, and use. A properly bonded system with a quality topcoat is intended to last for many years, and we explain care and exclusions in the warranty discussion.
Can I pick my own flake color?
Yes. We bring blend samples to the estimate so you can see them in your garage lighting.
Do flake floors need sealing later?
The topcoat is the seal. Depending on use, it may eventually be refreshed with another clear coat.
Are flake floors slippery?
They have more texture than a smooth gloss floor. Extra grip can be added for wet areas.