Flake vs. Metallic vs. Quartz vs. Solid Epoxy: Which Finish Is Right for You?

Choosing the right epoxy finish is one of the most important decisions in your flooring project. Each finish has its own look, performance characteristics, and ideal use cases. In this guide, the team at Apex Epoxy Flooring breaks down the four most popular epoxy finishes so you can make the right call for your space.

Flake Epoxy

Flake epoxy — also called chip or broadcast epoxy — is the most popular finish for garages, driveways, and high-traffic residential spaces. Colored vinyl flakes are broadcast into the wet epoxy base coat, creating a speckled, textured surface that hides dirt, tire marks, and minor imperfections. Best for: Garages, basements, workshops, laundry rooms Pros:

• Excellent slip resistance from the textured surface
• Hides dirt and wear extremely well
• Available in dozens of color blends
• Very durable and easy to clean
• Mid-range price point

Cons:

• Less visually dramatic than metallic
• Texture can trap fine dust if not sealed properly

Price range: $3–$7 per sq ft installed —

Metallic Epoxy

Metallic epoxy creates a stunning, high-gloss finish with a three-dimensional, flowing effect. Metallic pigments are mixed into the epoxy, creating unique swirling patterns that look different in every installation. No two metallic floors are ever exactly alike. Best for: Showrooms, retail spaces, restaurant floors, residential living areas, garages where aesthetics are the priority Pros:

• The most visually striking finish available
• Unique — no two floors look the same
• High-gloss, reflective surface brightens spaces
• Durable with proper topcoat

Cons:

• Shows scratches more easily than flake
• Higher cost per square foot
• Requires skilled installation for best results

Price range: $6–$12 per sq ft installed —

Quartz Epoxy

Quartz epoxy uses colored quartz aggregate embedded in epoxy resin to create an extremely hard, slip-resistant surface. It is the go-to finish for commercial and industrial environments where durability is the top priority. Best for: Commercial kitchens, warehouses, healthcare facilities, pool decks, locker rooms Pros:

• Highest durability of any epoxy finish
• Excellent chemical and abrasion resistance
• Naturally slip-resistant even when wet
• Ideal for safety-critical environments

Cons:

• Less decorative than metallic or flake
• Rougher texture requires more effort to clean

Price range: $4–$8 per sq ft installed —

Solid Color Epoxy

Solid color epoxy delivers a clean, uniform, professional appearance. It is the simplest and most affordable epoxy finish — ideal for spaces where function matters more than decoration, or where a minimalist aesthetic is preferred. Best for: Warehouses, utility rooms, gym floors, light commercial spaces Pros:

• Most affordable epoxy option
• Clean, professional look
• Easy to apply and maintain
• Wide range of color options

Cons:

• Shows scratches, tire marks, and dirt more than flake
• Less visual depth than other finishes

Price range: $3–$5 per sq ft installed —

Which Finish Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:

Finish	Best For	Price Range	Durability
Flake	Garages, basements	$3–$7/sq ft	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Metallic	Showrooms, living areas	$6–$12/sq ft	⭐⭐⭐
Quartz	Commercial, industrial	$4–$8/sq ft	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Solid Color	Warehouses, utility rooms	$3–$5/sq ft	⭐⭐⭐