How to Broadcast Vinyl Flake & More on Epoxy Resin Floors

Francisco Mendoza • 28 March 2024

Guide to the Perfect Vinyl Flake Broadcast

 
For vinyl flake or for silica sand , you can't afford to get sloppy when it comes to epoxy resin. Once you get your choice in traction additive on the resin, you only have a few hours before it's essentially set in stone. That's why you should figure out the perfect technique before you install!
 
Courtesy of the years of experience here at XPS , we'll take you through the best practices of flake broadcasting to help you achieve flawless epoxy floors.
 

Vinyl Flake & Epoxy Resin: A Perfect Pair

 

If there's anything the flooring industry has learned in 2023 , it's that vinyl flake epoxy flooring is the future of practical flooring! Especially for garages, vinyl flake and epoxy resin seem to be an unstoppable duo.
 
This process not only enhances the aesthetics of the floor but also improves its durability and slip resistance.  Vinyl flake is known by contractors as a  traction additive  - that means that it'll provide protection against one of epoxy resin's only weaknesses. Don't be content to let your floors be a safety hazard!
 

Why Vinyl Flake? Which Vinyl Flake is Best?

 

vinyl flakes
One common mistake many DIYers and even professionals make is underestimating the amount of flakes needed for the job. It's always better to have extra flakes on hand to ensure complete coverage without the risk of running out mid-application. Once the epoxy cures, you won't get a second chance at it.
 
For DIY projects , a general rule of thumb is to divide the total square footage of the area by 5 to determine the required weight of flakes. Professionals, on the other hand, may opt to divide by 6 for more coverage.
 

An image of an epoxy resin flooring contractor broadcasting vinyl flake onto an epoxy resin floor.

Flooring 101: Broadcasting Vinyl Flake on Epoxy Resin

Vinyl flake broadcast doesn't have to be a complicated process. Once you learn how to do it, muscle memory will take over, and you'll naturally start to broadcast with the right coverage every time.
 
After applying the epoxy base coat , it's time to start broadcasting the flakes. Begin at the back of the project area and work your way towards the front, ensure even coverage throughout. It's best not to overthink the action of broadcasting, but here's a general idea of how it should go:

 
Liberally release the flakes from about shoulder height, allowing them to fall and settle into the epoxy evenly. Alternatively, you could put vinyl flakes in a bucket, and with a swift, consistent sweeping motion, release the flakes out from the bucket. This process is recommended more for broadcasting finer materials, like silica sand.
 
Remember, it's better to apply more than necessary to ensure thorough coverage. That is, unless your project's design vision is going for a more minimalist look.
 

Conclusion

 
Vinyl flake is all the rage now - for contractors and homeowners alike. XPS   is built on the experience needed to give you articles like this. With this guide both DIYers and professionals can master the art of vinyl flake broadcasting and create exceptional epoxy floors.
 
Xtreme Polishing Systems (XPS) is the contractor's hub for all things epoxy & concrete flooring! DIY or veteran installer, our products are designed to make your job easier, and your results better. Our team of specialists is on call for any guidance or assistance you might need at (877) 958-5264 .

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