many australian homes use designer tiles as a practical, fashionable flooring choice, whether in the kitchen, bathroom, or garden. while homeowners often choose tiles for aesthetics, choosing the right tile for the room is essential.
tiles are assigned a slip rating, which, in essence, is a rating system that tells you how “anti-slip” the tile’s surface is. the slip rating, an r-value, tells you where to install each tile. for example, bathroom and exterior tiles are more “anti-slip” than hallway tiles, as they are wet environments.
tiles not assigned slip ratings are graded to a specific minimum standard regardless. r-values range from r9 (minimum standard) to r13 (most excellent slip resistance).
how are tiles assigned r-values?
tile raters use several methods, the most common are the ramp test or pendulum test.
ramp test
the ramp test involves someone standing on and walking around on the tiles being tested, using common slip hazard contaminants (water or other workplace fluids) to test how slippery they are. testers raise the floor’s angle until the person slips; this may also include bare feet on soap and water to simulate shower areas.
this information is then used to create the r slip ratings as follows:
- r9: slip angle of 6-10 degrees
- r10: slip angle of 10-19 degrees
- r11: slip angle of 19-27 degrees
- r12: slip angle of 27-36 degrees
- r13: slip angle of >35 degrees
the higher the rating number, the less slippery the surface.
the pendulum test
the pendulum test measures the dynamic coefficient of friction, which records a person’s heel strike. it’s when the heel contacts the floor that most slips occur. when heels strike a wet floor, it creates a fluid film between the two surfaces, which can cause a slip.
the pendulum test works in wet conditions, generating a similar fluid film between the slider and the floor. it accurately tests slip potential on clean, dry, or contaminated floors. pendulum test results differ from the ramp test. they are called ptv “pendulum test value.”
- high slip potential = a ptv of 0-24
- moderate slip potential = a ptv of 25-35
- low slip potential = a ptv of 36+
these rating systems let you make informed choices about the floor tiles you choose for your home.
where can i buy beautiful designer tiles?
original ceramics in leederville offers an extensive tile selection with varying degrees of slip resistance. if you need a higher slip resistance for commercial projects, speak to our experienced team.
why choose original ceramics
established in 1977, original ceramics in leederville services greater perth and is a respected tile merchant. we supply to architects, interior designers and residential clients with an appreciation of design, product and quality.
directed by the design-rich cardinale family, both sons boast an extensive background in architecture and tiling, resulting in a wealth of experience and knowledge. if you’re looking for designer tiles from the best tile shop in perth, contact us today.