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Slip ratings for tiles are essential when determining their suitability for various environments. For bathrooms, it’s important to choose tiles with higher slip resistance to ensure safety on wet surfaces. In kitchens, look for tiles that strike a balance between durability and slip resistance, particularly in areas that are prone to spills. When selecting tiles for outdoor areas, prioritize those with high slip ratings to provide traction in wet conditions. Lastly, for areas around pools, opt for tiles specifically designed for wet environments to minimize the risk of slipping.
It’s important to note that the texture of a tile doesn’t always correlate with its slip resistance. Typically, tiles designed with slip resistance feature a textured finish. We measure a tile’s slip resistance using a Slip Rating, which simplifies the process of determining whether a tile is suitable for various indoor spaces, such as bathrooms and kitchens,
A Slip Rating measures the slip resistance of a tile surface and is essential for safety considerations. Developed according to Australian Standards, these ratings guide the selection of tiles in high-priority safety areas.
For residential buildings, the Australian Building Code and Australian Standards specifically require slip-rated flooring only for stair nosings, landings, and ramps.
However, slip ratings become more critical in commercial settings, such as shopping centers, warehouses, and industrial buildings. In these environments, factors like pedestrian stride, pace, and the potential contamination of tile surfaces with water, oil, or other substances significantly contribute to slip and fall risks.
| Rating Type | Classification | Description |
|---|---|---|
| P0 | No slip resistance | Not suitable for any wet areas. |
| P1 | Low slip resistance | Suitable for dry areas with minimal foot traffic. |
| P2 | Moderate slip resistance | Suitable for light foot traffic in dry areas. |
| P3 | Good slip resistance | Suitable for residential bathrooms and kitchens. |
| P4 | High slip resistance | Suitable for heavy-duty residential and light commercial use. |
| P5 | Very high slip resistance | Ideal for wet environments like showers and swimming pools. |
| R9 | Moderate slip resistance for wet areas | Suitable for commercial kitchens and bathrooms. |
| R10 | Good slip resistance for wet areas | Recommended for residential areas exposed to moisture. |
| R11 | High slip resistance for wet areas | Suitable for commercial and heavy-duty residential areas. |
| R12 | Very high slip resistance for wet areas | Ideal for industrial applications and outdoor surfaces. |
| R13 | Extremely high slip resistance for wet areas | Suitable for very demanding environments, including factories. |
A Slip Rating simplifies the process of determining a tile’s suitability for its intended use. In Australia, three common slip resistance tests are used:
For residential applications, the pendulum test is primarily utilized. In contrast, the Oil-Wet Ramp and Barefoot Wet Ramp tests are commonly employed for commercial applications.
| PTV Rating | Classification | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| < 25 | Very Low Slip Resistance | Not suitable for wet areas. |
| 25-35 | Low Slip Resistance | Suitable for light traffic areas; exercise caution in wet conditions. |
| 36-55 | Moderate Slip Resistance | Recommended for residential bathrooms and kitchens. |
| > 55 | High Slip Resistance | Ideal for commercial areas and heavy foot traffic locations. |
The Pendulum Test is a key method for assessing tile safety, especially in environments prone to moisture. It provides an objective measure of how well tiles perform under wet conditions, which is crucial for preventing slips and falls.
Tiles with P0 to P3 ratings are best for areas like bathrooms and kitchens, where the risk of water exposure is higher but where more traction is acceptable. On the other hand, P4 and P5 rated tiles are ideal for outdoor spaces and pool areas, ensuring a safer surface even when wet. This makes it easier to select the right tile for your specific needs while prioritizing safety and functionality.
| R Rating | Classification | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| R9 | Low Slip Resistance | Suitable for dry areas; not recommended for wet or oily surfaces. |
| R10 | Moderate Slip Resistance | Recommended for areas exposed to minimal oil, such as residential kitchens. |
| R11 | Good Slip Resistance | Ideal for commercial kitchens and light industrial areas. |
| R12 | High Slip Resistance | Suitable for heavy-duty environments, including industrial kitchens and food processing areas |
| R13 | Very High Slip Resistance | Recommended for extremely demanding environments, such as factories and outdoor areas prone to oil spills. |
The Barefoot Wet Ramp Test is designed for assessing tiles intended for swimming pools, showers, and changing rooms. In this test, testers soak their bare feet and walk on inclined tiles sprayed with water to determine the angle at which they become unsafe.
| Slip Resistance Value | Corrected Mean Acceptance Angle (Degrees) | Slip Risk |
|---|---|---|
| A | 12-18 | High |
| B | 18-24 | Moderate |
| C | Over 24 | Very Low |
For larger projects like residential buildings, ensuring safety is essential. While the Australian Building Code and Australian Standards require slip-rated flooring specifically for stair nosings, stair landings, and ramps, it’s important to consider slip resistance for all areas.
In high-traffic zones, such as hallways and bathrooms, using appropriate slip-rated tiles can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Selecting the right materials not only enhances safety but also contributes to the overall longevity and aesthetic appeal of the space. By prioritizing slip resistance throughout the building, you create a safer environment for everyone.
| Surface Conditions | Dry Surface (Wet Pendulum Test) | Dry Surface (Oil-wet Ramp Test) | Wet Surface (Wet Pendulum Test) | Wet Surface (Oil-wet Ramp Test) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stair treads or stairway landing surface | P3 | R10 | P4 | R11 |
| Nosings for stair treads and stairway landing edge strip | P3 | - | P4 | - |
| Ramps in buildings steeper than 1:20 but not steeper than 1:14 | P3 | R10 | P4 | R11 |
| Ramps in buildings steeper than 1:14 and not steeper than 1:8 | P4 | R11 | P5 | R12 |
Tiles with slip resistance typically feature a textured surface, making the initial clean crucial for their maintenance. Once the grout has dried—usually 24 hours later—wash the tiles using Lithofin Cement Residue Remover, following the instructions on the bottle.
If you notice a dull haze immediately after installation or if the tiles seem to get dirty quickly, don’t worry! This is likely grout residue, which can be easily removed with Lithofin Cement Residue Remover. For more guidance, check our helpful tips on removing grout haze.
For everyday cleaning, textured tiles are just as easy to maintain as non-textured options. We recommend using Lithofin KF Vitra-Clean with warm water and a damp microfiber mop. Alternatively, you can create a homemade cleaning solution with hot water and a splash of methylated spirits. Be sure to avoid soap-based products, as they can leave a film that attracts more dirt.
