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Non-slip tiles

Tiles, for example in bathrooms, wellness, pool or spa areas, in the kitchen or on the terrace, should be secured against slipping. We explain what you need to look out for. 

3 min read

Non-slip tiles: How can tiles be secured against slipping?

Why do tiles become so slippery when they are wet?

Tiles become slippery when wet because water forms a lubricating film on the surface, which reduces friction. Smooth tile surfaces, such as those frequently found in bathrooms or kitchens, have low slip resistance because they do not offer enough resistance to prevent sliding. This is because the water film and surface contact hardness required for slip resistance are insufficient. Especially during quick movements or careless steps, this can lead to dangerous slip accidents.

Can tiles be secured with an anti-slip coating in such a way that the coating is not visible?

Yes, it is possible to secure tiles with an anti-slip coating that is virtually invisible. There are transparent anti-slip coatings specifically developed to increase slip resistance without affecting the appearance of the tiles. These coatings are formulated in such a way that they do not alter the surface structure of the tiles while simultaneously increasing safety. This is particularly advantageous in living areas where the aesthetic appearance is important.

How do you apply an anti-slip coating to tiles?

Applying an anti-slip coating to tiles is done in several steps:

  1. Cleaning: First, the tiles must be thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, dust, and grease. Thorough cleaning is crucial for the adhesion of the coating.

  1. Drying: After cleaning, the tiles should dry completely to ensure that no moisture compromises the adhesion.

  1. Preparation: Depending on the type of tile, it may be necessary to lightly sand the surface to improve adhesion. This should be done carefully so as not to damage the tiles.

  1. Applying the coating: The anti-slip coating can then be applied evenly to the tiles using a brush, roller, or sprayer. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

  1. Curing: After application, the coating should be given sufficient time to cure before the area is walked on again. Depending on the product, this can take anywhere from a few hours to days.

Can all tiles be secured against slipping with an anti-slip coating?

In general, most types of tiles can be treated with an anti-slip coating. However, there are some factors that should be considered:

  1. Material: Some tile materials, such as glazed porcelain or ceramic, are better suited for the coating than others. Unglazed tiles generally offer better adhesion.

  1. Surface structure: Tiles with a very smooth surface can be more difficult to coat, as adhesion could be impaired.

  1. Existing coatings: Tiles that have already been treated with other coatings may require special preparation or may not be suitable for the application of a new anti-slip coating.

  1. Product specifications: It is important to note the product specifications and recommendations of the manufacturer to ensure that the chosen product is suitable for the specific type of tile.

How must tiles be pre-treated if you want to apply an anti-slip coating?

To successfully apply an anti-slip coating to tiles, careful preparation of the tile surface is crucial. Here are the steps for pre-treatment:

1. Cleaning

  • Thorough cleaning: The tiles must be thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, dust, grease, and soap residue. This can be done with a suitable cleaning agent and a sponge or brush.
  • Use of degreaser: If necessary, a degreaser can be used to remove stubborn residue.

2. Drying

  • Complete drying: After cleaning, the tiles should air-dry completely. This is important to ensure that no moisture compromises the adhesion of the coating.

3. Surface preparation

  • Sanding (if necessary): If required, the surface can be lightly sanded to improve adhesion. This should be done carefully with fine sandpaper or a sanding pad so as not to damage the tiles.
  • Dust removal: After sanding, the resulting dust must be thoroughly removed, e.g., by wiping with a damp cloth or vacuuming.

4. Degreasing

  • Additional degreasing: An additional degreasing step with a suitable cleaner can be performed to ensure the surface is completely clean and grease-free.

5. Check the tiles

  • Check for damage: Check the tiles for cracks or damage. Damaged tiles should be repaired or replaced before the anti-slip coating is applied.

Conclusion

The risk of slipping on wet tiles can be significantly reduced by using anti-slip coatings. These offer an effective solution for increasing safety without impairing the aesthetic appearance of the tiles. Careful preparation and adherence to the instructions are crucial when applying the product to achieve optimal results. Most tiles can be secured with an anti-slip coating, although the choice of product and the type of tile should be taken into account.