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A professional metallic epoxy floor in the Chicago area typically costs about $9 to $14 per square foot. It costs more than solid or flake systems because it uses more material, more coats and skilled hand application to create the marbled look. Slab repair, moisture mitigation and small or detailed spaces push it toward the high end.
Metallic epoxy is the most artistic floor we install. Metallic pigments are worked into a clear epoxy by hand, creating swirls, depth and movement that look like marble, lava or liquid metal. No two floors are the same, and that craftsmanship is reflected in the price.
Metallic epoxy cost at a glance
| System | Typical Chicago range |
|---|---|
| Metallic epoxy | About $9 to $14 per sq ft |
| Solid or flake epoxy | About $4.50 to $9 per sq ft |
| Polished concrete | About $5 to $8 per sq ft |
| Stained concrete | About $3.50 to $6 per sq ft |
Get a quick range with our epoxy flooring cost calculator.
What you are paying for
- Prep: diamond grinding and a smooth, patched slab, because every flaw shows through a glossy finish.
- Primer and base coat: usually a dark or tinted base to give the metallic depth.
- Metallic layer: a thick flood coat manipulated by hand with rollers, brushes and sprayers.
- Topcoat: a clear protective layer for scratch and UV resistance.
- Skill: the look depends on the installer, not only the product.
What moves the price
- Cracks and uneven areas needing repair or self-leveling.
- Moisture mitigation on basement slabs.
- Number of colors and effects.
- Small rooms, stairs and detailed edges.
- Removing old flooring or glue.
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Where metallic epoxy is worth it
Home bars, basements, theaters, showrooms, salons, restaurants and offices are all good fits. It is less practical in a garage exposed to road salt and hot tires, where a flake system holds up better and hides dirt. Compare looks in metallic epoxy vs decorative concrete.
Durability and care
Metallic floors are durable but glossy, so scratches and dust show more than on flake. Use felt pads, walk-off mats and a neutral cleaner. A satin topcoat or anti-slip additive helps in kitchens and entries. See our maintenance guide.
This article is part of our guide to metallic epoxy and decorative concrete.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a metallic epoxy floor cost?
Typically about $9 to $14 per square foot in the Chicago area, depending on prep and design.
Why is metallic epoxy more expensive than flake?
It uses more material, needs a smoother slab and relies on skilled hand application.
Can metallic epoxy go in a garage?
It can, but flake systems usually handle salt, dirt and hot tires better.
Is metallic epoxy slippery?
The glossy finish can be slick when wet. An anti-slip additive in the topcoat helps.
Get a written number for your floor.
On-site measure and moisture test at no cost.
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