Should I Get a Chip System for My Concrete Coating?
Concrete is tough, but it isn’t invincible. Over time, it can crack, stain, and wear down from constant use. Whether you’re upgrading your garage floor, commercial space, or outdoor walkway, chip system concrete coatings provide durability, slip resistance, and a sleek, customized finish.
In this guide, we’ll break down what a chip system is, how it works, why it’s a top choice for flooring solutions, and how to choose the perfect flake colors to match your space.
What are Chip System Concrete Coatings?
A chip system concrete coating is a multi-layer flooring solution designed to strengthen and enhance concrete surfaces. It combines high-performance resins, decorative vinyl flakes, and a protective topcoat to create a seamless, stylish, and long-lasting finish.
The Layers of a Chip System
A standard chip system consists of three essential layers:
Base Coat (Epoxy, Polyurea, or Polyaspartic)
- Applied directly to the concrete surface.
- Creates a strong foundation and ensures adhesion.
- Available in various formulas for different durability levels.
Vinyl Flakes (Decorative Chips)
- Broadcasted over the base coat while it’s still wet.
- Adds texture, slip resistance, and color variety.
- Available in different sizes and colors for a custom look.
Topcoat (Polyaspartic or Polyurethane)
- Seals in the flakes and provides a durable, stain-resistant finish.
- Protects against chemicals, moisture, UV rays, and daily wear.
- Enhances gloss and smoothness, making maintenance easy.
Why Choose a Chip System for Concrete Floors?
Concrete coatings aren’t just about looks—they’re about performance. A chip system offers several benefits that make it a good investment for residential and commercial spaces.
Extreme Durability
A chip system coating creates a protective barrier, unlike bare concrete, which can crack, absorb stains, and deteriorate. It can handle:
- Heavy foot traffic
- Vehicle weight (garages, warehouses)
- Chemical spills and oil stains
- Impact from dropped tools or equipment
Slip-Resistant and Safe
Textured flakes create a grippy surface, reducing the chances of slips and falls—important for garages, workshops, and wet areas.
You Can Choose Your Flakes & Colors
With a variety of flake colors and blends, you can match your coating to any aesthetic, whether you prefer:
- A sleek, modern finish
- A bold, industrial look
- A natural stone-like texture
Fast Installation and Quick Curing
Depending on the type of coating used (epoxy, polyurea, or polyaspartic), installation can be completed in a single day. Polyaspartic coatings cure within hours, meaning you can walk on them the same day.
Low Maintenance
A chip-coated floor is sealed and non-porous, making it:
- Easy to clean with a mop or a hose.
- Resistant to stains, mold, and bacteria buildup.
- Tough against harsh cleaners and chemicals.
What Are Vinyl Flakes? How Do They Work?
Vinyl flakes—also called decorative flakes, color chips, or flecks—are tiny, lightweight acrylic pieces that add texture, color, and slip resistance to a concrete coating. They come in various sizes and styles, each creating a different look and feel.
- Micro flakes (between 1/32” and 1/16”) work best for a subtle, refined texture. These tiny chips blend seamlessly into the coating, making them ideal for office spaces and showrooms where a smooth, understated finish is preferred.
- Standard flakes (1/8” to 1/4”) are the most common choice for a classic, balanced look. They provide moderate texture and visual depth, making them perfect for garages, workshops, and industrial spaces that need durability without being too bold.
- For a bold, high-impact design, jumbo flakes (1” or larger) make a statement. Their larger size creates a dramatic, eye-catching effect, which is often used in retail stores, gyms, and artistic spaces where a unique and customized aesthetic is key.
Choosing the right flake size depends on the texture, visibility, and slip resistance needed for your space. Whether you’re going for sleek and subtle or bold and vibrant, there’s a flake size that fits your style.
Step-by-Step Installation of a Chip System Coating
A properly installed chip system coating enhances the look of a concrete floor and ensures maximum durability, adhesion, and resistance to wear. Rushing the process or skipping key steps can lead to premature peeling, bubbling, or weak adhesion, so each phase must be done correctly.
Step 1: Surface Preparation
Before applying any coating, the concrete surface must be clean, smooth, and free of contaminants like dirt, grease, and old coatings. Proper preparation ensures the base coat adheres correctly and lasts for years.
- Any cracks or damage in the concrete is repaired using concrete fillers or patching compounds.
- The surface is then mechanically prepared using diamond grinding or shot-blasting to remove imperfections and create a rough texture, allowing the base coat to bond effectively.
- Once grinding is complete, the surface is vacuumed to remove dust and debris.
Skipping or rushing this step can lead to poor adhesion and coating failure.
Step 2: Applying the Base Coat
The base coat is the first layer of the chip system and serves as the foundation for durability and adhesion.
- A high-performance epoxy or polyurea primer is mixed and applied evenly across the surface using rollers or squeegees.
- In areas where moisture is a concern, a moisture-mitigating primer may be used to prevent issues like bubbling or peeling over time.
- The base coat must be spread quickly and evenly to avoid pooling or an uneven application.
Curing times may vary depending on the type of coating used. Epoxy takes longer to cure, while polyurea and polyaspartic coatings set more quickly.
Step 3: Broadcasting the Flakes
While the base coat is wet, decorative vinyl flakes are broadcasted across the surface. The flakes provide color, texture, and slip resistance, making them a key part of the chip system.
- The flakes are applied in an even, consistent manner, ensuring complete coverage.
- Some installers use a “full broadcast” technique, where flakes are applied until the entire surface is covered, while others prefer a “partial broadcast” for a more subtle look.
- The coated floor is left to cure for several hours or overnight, depending on the type of base coat used.
Once fully cured, any loose or excess flakes are scraped off with a metal tool or floor scraper to create a smooth, uniform finish.
Step 4: Sealing with a Topcoat
The final step is applying a protective topcoat, which locks in the flakes and provides a strong, stain-resistant, glossy finish.
- A polyaspartic or polyurethane topcoat is applied using a roller to ensure even coverage.
- The topcoat enhances the floor’s chemical resistance, UV stability, and impact resistance, making it suitable for garages, commercial spaces, and industrial areas.
- For added durability, some floors receive multiple layers of topcoat, depending on the level of protection needed.
Once the topcoat is fully cured, the floor is ready for use. Polyaspartic coatings allow for same-day walkability, while epoxy may take two to three days to cure.
Why You Should Get Your Concrete Coating Professionally Installed
While a chip system coating can transform your concrete floors into durable, slip-resistant, and visually stunning surfaces, proper application is key to long-term performance. Poor preparation, uneven flake distribution, or improperly applied topcoats can lead to peeling, bubbling, or weak adhesion, costing more in repairs down the road.
Working with experienced professionals is the best way to ensure your flooring is installed correctly the first time. Concrete Coatings of Minnesota specializes in high-quality concrete coatings for residential, commercial, and industrial spaces.
Whether you’re upgrading a garage, patio, or industrial floor, our team offers premium materials, expert craftsmanship, and fast installation times. Don’t leave your flooring investment to chance—trust the experts at Concrete Coatings of Minnesota to deliver the results you want.
