Decorative paint chips, also known as flakes, are used to enhance the appearance of surfaces, often floors, and to hide imperfections. Here's how you use them:
Application Process
- Preparation: Ensure the surface is properly prepared. This may involve cleaning and applying a base coat of paint or epoxy.
- Broadcasting: While the base coat is still wet, scatter the decorative paint chips over the surface. You can choose a light, medium, or heavy broadcast depending on the desired look.
- A light broadcast involves a sparse scattering of chips.
- A heavy broadcast completely covers the base coat with chips.
- Lock Down: If you do a full or heavy broadcast, apply a clear topcoat to lock down the chips. This step is crucial for durability and to prevent the chips from dislodging.
Key Benefits
- Hides Imperfections: Decorative chips can effectively mask surface flaws and unevenness.
- Enhances Appearance: They add visual texture and interest to otherwise plain surfaces.
- Customizable: You can choose from a variety of colors and chip sizes to achieve your desired aesthetic.
Practical Insights
- Application Technique: Aim for an even broadcast for consistent coverage.
- Topcoat Importance: The topcoat is not just for protection; it also enhances the depth and shine of the decorative chips.
- Surface Suitability: While often used on floors, decorative chips can be applied to walls, countertops, and other surfaces.
Example
According to a video titled "How to Apply Rust Oleum Decorative Chips | Optional Step," you can use these chips to enhance your floor's appearance, and they are an effective way to hide imperfections.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Prepare | Ensure surface is clean and a base coat is applied |
| 2. Broadcast | Scatter decorative paint chips evenly over the wet base coat |
| 3. Topcoat | Apply a clear topcoat to lock down chips if a full or heavy broadcast is achieved. |
