What is the best Non Slip Floor Tile in the Market?

When constructing a residential or commercial property, floor tiles are an important aspect that deserves your special attention. After all, the floor that you walk on needs to be comfortable, durable, and more importantly, slip-resistant to protect you and your loved ones.

Non-slip floor tiles are floor tiles specifically designed to be slip-resistant with improved friction than the ordinary type of tiles. They are perfect for homes with elder people, kids, and pets as they provide extra protection than ordinary tiles. But not all non slip floor tiles are the same, and you will find a variety in the market. Below, we have covered the best non slip floor tiles to help you make a good choice!

I. What is the Best Non-Slip Floor Tile?

1. Non-Slip Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl is a great choice for modern homeowners looking for non slip floor tiles that require minimal care. While it may not brag of elegance like ceramic or porcelain, the wide range of colors and styles available can help you get a look that mimics them. Here’s what you need to know about non-slip vinyl flooring.

Cost:

Since there are many options, the cost will depend on what you select. On average, it will cost around $2- $14 per square foot with an added cost for installation. If you are familiar with floor tile installation, you can do it yourself, as the process isn’t difficult.

Maintenance and Cleaning:

Vinyl floor tile requires minimal maintenance. It’s best to use products specifically recommended for vinyl floors or non-abrasive products. When cleaning, avoid the use of harsh chemicals and hot water. The use of heating equipment is also not advisable.

2. Cork/ Bamboo Flooring

For homeowners who value sustainability and want an eco-friendly option for floor tiles, bamboo or cork is the ideal choice. While being easy on the environment, they also display an impressive range of properties that we seek in non-slip flooring materials. It’s important to remember that bamboo and cork have similarities as well as differences.

Cost:

On average, bamboo and cork flooring can cost you $3 – $7 per square foot. Their installation cost is also similar to the material cost and has to be done with care and precision. It’s better to hire a professional to get your floor tiles installed.

Maintenance and Cleaning:

Both these materials are easy to clean with regular dusting, sweeping, and vacuuming. While cork floors can be mopped with a mild cleaning solution, bamboo shouldn’t be exposed to moisture.

3. Carpet Flooring

If comfort and beauty are your main concerns, carpets stand on top of the list of flooring options. Our advice is to go for high-quality carpets that don’t wear out easily with time. This way, you can use them for a long time. But, carpets pose some major drawbacks that you should consider before deciding.

Cost:

It can cost $2 – $20 per square foot, but the price mainly depends on factors like quality, thickness, material, texture, and design. You would have to spend an additional amount for installation as well, but it wouldn’t cost a lot.

Maintenance and Cleaning:

Using a vacuum cleaner can help you get rid of the dirt and debris on carpets more easily. Moreover, there are special cleaning solutions designed for carpets that don’t affect the material, unlike harsh chemicals. So, we advise you to use them.

4. Ceramic/Porcelain Tile

Ceramic and porcelain are the sturdiest options available for floor tiles in the market. Due to their exquisite appeal, they are also a popular choice for residential spaces. Although they have some differences, porcelain and ceramic tiles share many similarities.

Cost:

Ceramic tiles range from $2-$7 per square foot, while porcelain can cost more from $3-$10 per square foot. You would also have to bear an added cost for installation. We recommend you hire a professional as the installation process is relatively difficult.

Maintenance and Cleaning:

Both these tile materials are easy to clean and maintain. You can use cleaning agents specially formulated for porcelain/ceramic floor tiles. With proper care, you can expect them to serve your living or commercial space for a long time.

5. Rubber Flooring

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Rubber is considered one of the best options for anti slip floor tiles commercial. As it’s one of the safe floor tiles for kids and elders, rubber is frequently used in preschools, play areas, hospitals, gyms, and eldercare centers. Even for homes with kids, rubber is a great choice. But first, consider its pros and cons listed below.

Cost:

The price of rubber floor tile depend on the quality, design, and thickness. However, on average, it can range from $2 – $8 depending on the purpose and area you will be using it for. You can install them by yourself. But, rubber tiles that are glued to the surface may require an expert’s assistance.

Maintenance and Cleaning:

Rubber floor tiles are very easy to clean and maintain, but you should be careful as to what type of detergent you are using to clean. Harsh chemicals can damage their look and texture.

II. Do You Really Need Non Slip Floor Tiles?

You may not need slip resistant floor tiles for every area of your residential or commercial property. But, they are ideal to be used throughout the property for added protection, increased friction, and prolonged use. Even if you don’t plan on installing non-slip floor tiles throughout your living or working space, make sure you have them for wet, greasy, and even dusty areas.

In residential properties, anti slip floor tiles are necessary for areas such as stairs, bathrooms, kitchens, patios, play areas, and pool areas. Typically, areas where people walk in haste and run around as well as areas prone to water splashes should be floored with non slip tiles. You should also consider non slip tiles for your entire house if you have kids, pets, senior citizens, disabled members, and people suffering from injuries. After all, safety is a necessary precaution and you will never be sorry for being extra safe!

III. How Is the Floor Tile Slip Resistance Rating Measured and Graded?

1. The Ramp Test

The Ramp test involves a person walking barefoot or with ordinary footwear on a type of floor tile that’s being tested. The surface of the tile will be greased with oil, splashed with soap water, or clean water depending on the standard of the tile. The operator or the participant, protected by a harness will be walking back and forth on the surface. The test eventually begins on a horizontal plank that’s elevated gradually, until the safest angle of elevation is gained, and the person slips thereafter.

There are 2 major types of ramp tests

1. German Standard Test of wearing boots on an oily surface known as DIN 51330.
2. German Standard Test of walking barefoot on a surface with soap water or clean water known as DIN 51097

2. The Pendulum Test (The COF Test)

The pendulum test is the standard for measuring the slip resistance of different floor types in most countries as it can be used to measure the coefficient of friction (COF) of contaminated, dry, and as well as wet floor tiles. The test, conducted using a pendulum replicates the heel strike of a pedestrian or the friction provided by the surface as the heel of the foot contacts it. This is because most of the accidents are caused at this point. Two rubber sliders, one representing the pedestrian wearing footwear and the other barefoot are available for testing.

3. Tile Rating and Their Interpretation

➣ The German standard ramp test DIN 51130 uses a rating system that ranges from R9 – R 13.

• R9 – Tiles with a maximum angle of 6-10 degrees that pose a high risk of slipping. They are ideal to be used only in dry areas.
• R10 – Tiles with a maximum angle of 10-19 degrees that pose a moderate risk of slipping. They are ideal for dry areas with little exposure to moisture.
• R11 – Tiles with a maximum angle of 19-27 degrees that pose a moderate risk of slipping. They are ideal for dry areas but can resist moisture up to some extent.
• R12 – Tiles with a maximum angle of 27-35 degrees that pose a low risk of slipping. They are ideal for wet areas.
• R13 – Tiles with a maximum angle of 35 degrees that pose a very low risk of slipping. They are best for areas that get wet frequently.

➣ The German standard ramp test DIN 51097 uses a grading system that ranges from A-C.

• A – Tiles ideal for dry areas or areas subject to wetness occasionally
• B – Tiles ideal for moderately wet areas with good slip-resistance
• C – Tiles ideal for very wet areas with excellent slip-resistance

➣ Pendulum Test Value (PTV) and respective dynamic Coefficient of Friction (COF) range

• PTV 0-24 or COF < 0.2 – high chance for slipping on wet surfaces
• PTV 25-35 or COF 0.2 – 0.4 – moderate chance for slipping on wet surfaces
• PTV 35-64 or COF 0.4 – 0.7 – a low chance for slipping or good slip resistance

IV. Slip Resistance -Area-by-Area Guide

1. Non Slip Floor Tiles for Showers

Many modern homes have an in-built shower space in their bathroom with features to accentuate its functionality and safety. Showers can be extremely slippery areas, and it’s not just because they are exposed to water continuously. The lotion and soap solutions and even the condensation on tiles from steam showers can make the floor slippery! If you want to keep unexpected injuries at a minimal level, go for the best non slip floor tiles for showers.

Ceramic or porcelain tiles are the best solutions for showers as they are excellent at water resistance or absorption. They won’t compromise the elegant look of the bathroom as these tiles are available in a wide range of designs, colors, and textures! But, it’s important to buy anti-slip ceramic floor tiles specifically designed for showers. They usually have a matt or rough texture to give an added grip.

Another good option for non slip floor tiles for showers is rubber. Although they may not feel or look great as porcelain/ceramic, they are one of the best choices for homes with aged residents. Even in situations of a fall, the rubber will minimize the injuries as it feels like a thick cushion.

When buying non slip floor tiles for showers, go for tiles with a rating of R 13 or a grading C. Alternatively, you can look for a COF more than 0.64 or a PTV value of 45+.

2. Non-Slip Floor Tiles for Bathrooms

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are the most popular choice for bathrooms due to their benefits like water-resistance, durability, and beautiful appeal. They are a long-term investment for your bathrooms and would serve great in homes with children and pets. It’s important to note that these kinds of tiles come in two varieties. One has a shiny/glazed surface, which can become slippery when water stagnates, and the other is a rough/matte texture that provides ample grip to walk. You have to select non slip bathroom floor tiles.

Waterproof vinyl tiles are also a good option as it offers great slip-resistance. It’s more affordable and durable, so regular wear and tear is not a problem. Even in cases of slips and falls, vinyl’s foam layer will reduce injuries by acting as padding. In modern homes, the use of vinyl non slip bathroom floor tiles is very common.

If your bathroom has ample ventilation, cork and bamboo are also good non slip bathroom floor tiles. Their major benefit is water absorption or water resistance (if they are constructed to be waterproof) so that water doesn’t stagnate on the surface. But, they need to dry fast to avoid the buildup of mold, which can make things worse.

We wouldn’t recommend carpet flooring for bathrooms as they absorb moisture and take a long time to dry. So, while they are a good option for slip-resistance flooring, they won’t make a pleasant choice, especially if your bathroom has less ventilation. Wet carpets also release a bad odor. However, if you want to enhance the slip resistance, you can accessorize your bathroom with carpets or mats on ceramic/porcelain floor tiles.

For bathrooms, you have to buy non slip tiles with a rating of R 11 or above and a grading of B or C. It depends on how wet your bathroom will be (as some prefer their bathrooms to be dry as possible) and who will use it. Alternatively, you can look for a COF of more than 0.44 or a PTV value of 35+.

3. Non-Slip Floor Tiles for Stairs

Vinyl non-slip tiles for stairs are an affordable as well as a trendy option for residential as well as commercial spaces. Since these tiles are available in different colors and designs, you can install them to suit the interior of the property.

Rubber tiles are one of the best options for anti slip floor tiles commercial properties where functionality is the main priority. Rubber provides excellent slip-resistance and minimizes the impact of injuries. As your employees move around the workspace busily, rubber non slip floor tiles can provide the required protection and convenience.

If your stairs are made from hardwood and you want to increase its friction, carpets would work great. Many traditional or luxury houses that are entirely furnished with wood go for this option as exquisite-looking carpets and rugs enhance the attractiveness. However, it’s difficult to clean and maintain them as they accumulate dust soon.

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are also good options if your entire property is tiled and you want to extend the uniform look for the staircase as well. They are suitable for both indoors and outdoors. Just make sure, they are anti slip tiles with maximum friction.

For stairs, look for non slip tiles R10 or above, although R9 can also be considered. You can go for grading of A-C depending on who uses stairs more often and the level of resistance you need. A COF less than 0.44 or a PTV value of 24+ is good.

4. Slip Resistant Floor Tiles for Outdoors

The best choice for outdoors is porcelain. It’s preferred over ceramic as it’s more durable and doesn’t crack in extreme weather conditions. Moreover, the water absorption rate is significantly lower in porcelain than ceramic. So, you can use them for stairs, decks, patios, and any outdoor space that’s exposed to rain, mud, dust, and debris continuously.

Rubber tiles are another option worth considering. They are great for outdoor areas of commercial properties that experience high traffic. Rubber floor tile is also great for areas where children play often. You get rubber tiles with a variety of patterns on their surface to provide added grip. However, it may not be very suitable for luxury residential homes.

If the outdoor area isn’t susceptible to harsh weather conditions, you can also consider cork or bamboo as choices for non slip floor tiles. As they are very durable, they will be able to withstand regular use.

For outdoor areas, you can go for a rating of R9 or a grading of A. A COF less than 0.44 or a PTV value of 24 or less is good. This is the recommended rating for outdoor areas considering they are dry most of the time.

5. Anti Slip Floor Tiles for Pool Area

Rubber is another good option as it provides an impressive grip. So, if you have kids and want a safe swimming area for them, rubber tiles are a good option. Rubber deck pavers are becoming popular as they also minimize the impact of injuries that tend to happen around the pool area.

For the area surrounding the pool, we recommend you pick a tile with a rating of more than R11 or grading of B or C. A COF of more than 0.44 or a PTV value of 24 or less is good.

As for the pool itself, it’s important to pick a tile that’s best at repelling water or has a low water absorption rate. Porcelain floor tile fits this criterion in addition to being budget-friendly compared to other expensive counterparts like glass or stone.

For the swimming pool, we recommend you pick a tile with a rating of R13 or a grading of B or C. A COF of 0.65 or a PTV value of 45+ is good.

V. How Do I Make My Tile Floor Less Slippery?

If the floor tile you have installed is quite slippery, don’t worry. There are some solutions to improve the slip resistance of the floor.

Apply an anti-slip coating over the tiled surface that will provide grip in both dry and wet surfaces. There are a variety of coatings formulated for different areas. So, make sure you buy the appropriate one for the area you will be applying it for. You can also etch the tile surface to increase its slip resistance but it would reduce the beautiful appeal of the floor tile drastically. Otherwise, you can accessorize the tiled floor with rugs and carpets to reduce the change of slips. It’s ideal for bathrooms as well. However, if the floor is very slippery and you are worried about potential accidents, the best option is to go for a non slip floor tile option that we have mentioned above.

Conclusion

We hope our article on non slip floor tiles was very useful and helped you in selecting the ideal choice of slip resistant floor tiles for your property. If you are looking for a reliable supplier who pioneers in providing the best and high-quality non slip tiles in China, look no further. We at George Building Constructions provide nothing but top-notch products for our clients. If you have any questions related to non slip floor tiles and want to know the best type of floor tile for your residential or commercial property, contact us! We will be happy to assist you.