The eternal struggle: choosing between beautiful floors that become skating rinks when wet or safe surfaces that feel entirely too utilitarian. Finding the right balance between anti-slip functionality and aesthetics is a constant challenge for designers and architects working on commercial projects.
Understanding Safety Standards
R-Rating System (DIN 51130)
The R-rating system originated from German engineering standards and uses a straightforward simulation to measure real-world traction. Evaluators wear specialized safety shoes and walk on lubricated sample flooring at increasing inclines. The steeper the incline they can safely walk on without slipping, the higher the R-rating.
DCOF Testing (ANSI A326.3)
In the U.S., DCOF (Dynamic Coefficient of Friction) is the recognized standard for measuring slip resistance. Using a BOT-3000E tribometer, the test simulates walking across a wet surface by dragging a standardized rubber sensor across the tile under controlled pressure. A DCOF value of ≥ 0.42 is required for level interior areas that may become wet.
The R11 Sweet Spot
The R-rating spectrum provides different levels of slip resistance, each with distinct characteristics:
|
R-Rating |
Texture Level |
Best Applications |
Considerations |
|
R9-R10 |
Minimal texture |
Dry interiors |
Often fall short when moisture enters the equation |
|
R11 |
Moderate texture |
Wet areas with design focus |
Ideal middle ground - safe traction without harsh textures |
|
R12-R13 |
Highly textured |
Maximum slip resistance needed |
Too rough for design-focused spaces, complicated maintenance |
R11-rated tile is the optimal solution for most commercial applications, delivering reliable slip resistance in wet conditions while maintaining elevated, design-forward visuals. This rating performs exceptionally well where slip resistance and aesthetics matter, seamlessly transitioning between heavy traffic front-of-house and back-of-house areas while maintaining safety standards and design cohesion.
Get-a-Grip: Performance Meets Design
Our Get-a-Grip collection exemplifies the anti-slip, R11 advantage. These porcelain tiles exceed international and U.S. standards' minimum safety requirements by 55%.
Key Features:
-
- Superior traction compared to R9/R10 options without aggressive R12/R13 textures
- Versatile 12" x 24" format with 18 curated color options to choose from
- Consistent performance across diverse commercial applications
Ideal Applications:
-
- Hotel lobbies & guest bathrooms
- Restaurant entrances & commercial kitchens
- Retail storefronts & fitting rooms
- Multi-use commercial corridors
With the Get-a-Grip collection, you can confidently meet safety requirements while achieving the sophisticated design your clients demand. These engineered surfaces offer reliable traction, ensuring your project stays true to your vision while addressing critical safety needs. No compromises. No added maintenance.
