Let’s look at these interesting facts about how to take care of yourself on wet tiles, brought to you by Sant Agostino in Italy, Stylnul in Spain and Italtile.

• There’s no such thing as a non-slip tile

There are currently no totally non-slip tiles. The correct term for a tile engineered to offer surface friction is “slip-resistant”.

• Sliding scale for slip-resistant tiles

Not all slip-resistant tiles are created equally. It’s a sliding scale with international standards that rate slip resistance. One is tested in safety footwear on varying slopes with oil lubrication – the “R” rating. R9 is the lowest slip rating, for use in areas that are never wet. R10 and R11 are recommended for areas that are sometimes wet, such as the bathroom floor or kitchen floor. R13 is the highest – for optimum outdoor slip-resistance around pools, decks, patios and gardens. Italtile’s insistence on high-end quality means all their slip-resistant tiles are highly rated – but be slip-resistant savvy and ask before purchasing.

• Manufacturing process of normal versus slip-resistant tiles

The way the tiles are produced is the same. However, there are different pressing moulds or glazes. The slip-resistant tile can be of two types: Firstly, where a pressing mould is used that creates the texture that gives grip. This structure can be seen with the naked eye because the surface is not flat. Secondly, a glaze is used that makes the surface rough and “grippy” – usually with the addition of alumina and corundum.

• INOUT technology creates an unusually smooth grip

Italtile’s Stylnul Ceramica partners have developed a slip-resistant tile surface with a uniform coating of micro-granules that is unusually smooth and velvety to the touch. This means their Civic INOUT and Rockstone INOUT are not only delightful to walk on barefoot, but are also incredibly easy to wipe clean – unlike many other slip-resistant tiles.

• Tile performance

Footfall, harsh cleaning chemicals and exposure to the elements can all affect a tile’s slip resistance over time. When selecting a tile from Italtile’s huge slip-resistant collection, you’ll be assured of high levels of resistance to fire, chemicals and ultraviolet (UV) light. However, be careful not to use abrasive chemicals to clean your slip-resistant floors. The correct maintenance is advised to prolong the life of your floors.

• Keep it clean

An accumulation of dirt and cleaning residues can cause your slip-resistant floor to be less effective, so ensure you sweep and wipe clean regularly.

• Choose the right cleaning products

While a damp mop and warm water are the first go-to everyday cleaning suggestion, you may need to clean up a messy spill every now and then. Italtile has the exclusive TFC range for cleaning tiles. For example, TFC Quick Clean Everyday Tile Cleaner is extremely economical, hygienic (with antibacterial additives) and biodegradable.

• Get a grip

Here’s a scary slippage factoid. Did you know that of the approximately 8 million emergency room visits in the United States of America (USA) every year, at least 12% are slip-and-fall accidents?

• Falling – the last resort

While a highly rated slip-resistant tile will minimise the chance of slippage, please remember the first point – even the best, most highly rated slip-resistant tile can’t guarantee a totally non-slip future. Memorise the following safety-first steps. If you slip and feel yourself falling:

• Protect your head – tuck in your chin, turn your head to the side and bring your arms up to head level.
• Try and turn as you fall, to land on your side.
• Keep your arms and legs bent.
• Stay loose.
• Try and roll out of the impact – it is a good idea to practise these steps on a foam gym mat.

Contact Italtile to find out more about their slip-resistant tile selection. They have excellent product knowledge after decades of partnership with outstanding tile manufacturers.

For more information, contact Italtile:
Tel: +27 11 271 2272
Email: sales@italtile.co.za
Website: www.italtile.co.za

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