At Concrete Inspirations, we specialize in turning ordinary concrete into extraordinary surfaces. Concrete Inspirations was pivotal in the development of metallic epoxy flooring in Calgary, in fact, we have been installing these floors in Calgary and across Alberta since 2008, which makes us the most experienced metallic floor installer in the province. We have installed thousands of square feet and completed hundreds of projects across Calgary and Alberta
Metallic epoxy offers a plethora of benefits that makes it an attractive choice for both residential and commercial floor coatings.
In this article we will explain why we think our metallic epoxy flooring is not just hype but an incredible investment for your property that will not only make your space look visibly incredible but will also increase its value, make it easier to clean and maintain and is surprisingly cost effective.
Unparalleled Aesthetic Appeal
We still remember the first time we completed a metallic epoxy installation. The business was ecstatic when they saw the finished floor – their exact words were “it looks like flowing liquid metal has been frozen into the ground”. That wow factor is the kind of reaction these floors create and why we have so much fun doing them.
Unlike standard concrete or tile, epoxy metallic floors create depth that shifts as you move through the space. One client described it as “like walking on a gorgeous abstract painting.”
With techniques we’ve perfected over 17+ years, we can create effects ranging from subtle marble to bold, swirling patterns that make visitors stop in their tracks.
Tough Enough for Canadian Life
Calgary winters can be brutal on flooring. Salt, snow, and temperature swings destroy many traditional options. We’ve installed metallic epoxy in both residential basements and commercial spaces that have survived years of abuse without losing their lustre.
A recent client in 2025 recently called us about refreshing a metallic floor we installed back in 2011. After 13 years of constant foot traffic, spills, and cleaning, it was finally showing some wear – but it still looked better than the new tile in their recently renovated bathroom. That is the kind of longevity we’re talking about.
The Truth About Maintenance
Let’s be honest – no floor is truly “maintenance-free.” But metallic epoxy comes pretty close. Because it creates a seamless, non-porous surface, there are no grout lines to scrub or seams to trap dirt.
One of our clients, a busy mom with three kids and two dogs, told us cleaning her epoxy metallic basement floor takes about 10 minutes a week – just a quick sweep and occasional damp mop. Compare that to her previous carpeting that needed constant vacuuming and spot treatments.
Calgary winters can be brutal on flooring. Salt, snow, and temperature swings destroy many traditional options. We’ve installed metallic epoxy in both residential basements and commercial spaces that have survived years of abuse without losing their lustre.
A recent client in 2025 recently called us about refreshing a metallic floor we installed back in 2011. After 13 years of constant foot traffic, spills, and cleaning, it was finally showing some wear – but still looked better than the new tile in their recently renovated bathroom. That is the kind of longevity we’re talking about.
Breaking Down Your Options
Not all metallic epoxy systems are created equal. Through years of testing, we’ve found two main categories worth considering:
Water-based systems offer a more subtle shimmer effect with virtually no odour during installation. These are perfect for homeowners who want the metallic look without overwhelming a space. They are environmentally friendly but slightly less durable than solvent-based alternatives. We often recommend these for bedrooms, home offices, and lower-traffic areas.
Solvent-based systems pack a serious visual punch with intense, vibrant effects. The colours pop more dramatically, and the floor can withstand serious abuse. The downside? Installation requires proper ventilation. We typically suggest these for basement floors, garages, and commercial spaces where durability is paramount.
Getting the Colour Right
Choosing colours for a metallic floor is nothing like picking paint. The way metallic pigments interact with light creates effects that can dramatically change how a space feels.
We once had a client who initially wanted a bold red metallic floor for their home office. After seeing samples and listening to our advice, they realized a subtle copper tone created the warm, professional environment they actually wanted. This is why we always create sample boards – what you imagine might be quite different from the finished result.
Small spaces often benefit from lighter tones like pearl, silver, or champagne, which make rooms feel more open. Larger areas can handle darker bases like charcoal or navy, which create incredible depth when metallic effects are added.
The finish matters too. High-gloss creates that wet-look that many clients love, while satin finishes offer elegance without the reflective quality (and show fewer footprints).
The Real Drawbacks (Because Nothing's Perfect)
We’d be lying if we said metallic epoxy flooring is perfect for every situation. Here are the honest downsides:
- DIY disaster potential – We’ve been called to fix plenty of DIY attempts gone wrong, and poor installations. The window for working with these materials is short, and creating those signature swirls takes experience. This isn’t a weekend warrior project.
- Slippery when wet – Without proper additives in the topcoat, metallic floors can be slick. But then again, so can tile and so can hardwood. Its important to be mindful of the topcoat applied for these areas.
- Not scratch-proof – While incredibly durable, dragging heavy furniture without protectors can still mark the surface. These floors are tough, but not indestructible. We can provide furniture pads and sliders to help negate this and really any flooring is susceptible to this issue. If a company says their floors are completely scratch proof, we will say that you should try it and put it to the test.
What About Cost?
We won’t sugarcoat it – quality metallic epoxy costs more than standard flooring options upfront. The price per square foot depends on complexity, preparation needs, and design.
But here’s the math that makes sense: When you consider a metallic epoxy floor can last 15+ years with minimal maintenance, the long-term value becomes clear. We’ve had clients replace expensive hardwood floors three times in the span that their metallic epoxy has remained virtually unchanged.
At Concrete Inspirations we offer a free consultation and our costings are still affordable and reasonable compared to the level of service and longevity that you will get out of your next epoxy metallic flooring
Things to Consider When Choosing a Contractor
When choosing an installer, look for a company with a strong portfolio of metallic epoxy projects, transparent communication, and a proven process from prep to finish. Ask to see some of their past work in person and not just through photos. Inquire about the materials they use, the equipment they operate, how many epoxy metallic floors they have completed, and whether they offer samples or mock-ups. A reputable contractor will prioritize both function and design – ensuring your floor doesn’t just look incredible on day one but performs beautifully over time.
Installing metallic floor epoxy is a multi-step process that requires careful preparation and attention to detail. It also requires experience and skill set for a reputable epoxy floor contractor.
Installation Reality Check
Creating a metallic epoxy floor isn’t about putting down some product and calling it a day. It is as much about craftsmanship as it is chemistry Here’s the real process we’ve refined over thousands of installations and not all contractors have the artistic touch required to execute these custom finishes:
- Honest surface prep – This makes or breaks the final result. We mechanically grind concrete to create proper adhesion, repair cracks, and address moisture issues that would ruin the finish.
- Primer with purpose – The primer isn’t just another step; it’s the foundation that affects how every subsequent layer behaves.
- Base coat application – This sets the background tone for the entire floor.
- The artistic phase – This is where experience matters most. Creating those signature effects requires perfect timing and technique that simply can’t be taught overnight.
- Protection that lasts – The final topcoat determines how the floor performs day-to-day. We use industrial-grade urethanes that protect the art beneath from real-world abuse.
Why Experience Matters
We started installing metallic epoxy floors in 2008 when most contractors in Alberta hadn’t even heard of them. That 17+ years of experience means we’ve learned what works through trial and error – not YouTube tutorials, or a two-day training class. This is decades of hard work, understanding the chemistry, understanding how to effectively apply the epoxy materials, and combating issues in advance.
One of our longtime clients, a developer who uses us for all his properties, put it best: “The difference between an amateur metallic floor and a professional one isn’t obvious until six months later when the amateur’s work starts failing.”
So, should you choose metallic epoxy?
If you want flooring that makes a statement while standing up to real life, metallic epoxy delivers. Yes, it costs more upfront than some other basic options. Yes, it requires professional installation. But the combination of head-turning beauty and practical durability is unmatched.
After installing these floors in hundreds of Alberta homes and businesses, we can say with confidence – the hype is justified, but only when the floor is done right.
Want to see if metallic epoxy makes sense for your space? We’ll bring sample boards to your home or business so you can see exactly how different options would look in your actual lighting. No pressure, just honest advice from people who’ve been doing this longer than anyone else in the province.
Concrete Inspirations – Creating extraordinary surfaces since 2008.
We place passion in every project. From concept to completion, we guide you through to the finish.
Why You Should Consider Concrete Inspirations for your Epoxy Metallic Floor?
At Concrete Inspirations, we specialize in turning ordinary concrete into extraordinary surfaces. Our team has years of experience designing and installing high-end epoxy metallic floors for both residential and commercial clients across Alberta, including Calgary, Edmonton, Okotoks, and surrounding areas. We use only premium, low-VOC materials, advanced equipment, and meticulous preparation techniques to deliver flawless results every time. But beyond the technical side, we bring creativity, collaboration, and genuine.