Non Slip Floor Tiles for Wet Rooms

Wet rooms are becoming more and more popular as people turn to showering instead of the traditional soak in the tub routine. This article will outline the importance of finding the right non slip floor tiles for wet rooms on your next commercial build.

Higher Demand for Wet Rooms

There are numerous reasons behind the rise in popularity of wet rooms including:

• Increased Open Space: A wet room takes up very little room – especially compared to a bath – and without the need for a shower enclosure, a wet rooms makes the most of the space available. This is particularly important for commercial developers who are looking to maximise the value of the plot.
• Accessible for Everyone: Baths (and even traditional showers) can present accessibility options for the elderly and disabled, but a wet room can increase the accessibility significantly. This is good to keep in mind for hotels and public spaces.
• Easy to Clean: The environment of a wet room ensures that they can be cleaned easily with household cleaners to prevent a build-up of mould

Naturally, this wet environment does present a potential slip hazard, so, particularly in commercial settings where large numbers of people will be congregating – such as swimming pools and apartment buildings – the need for non-slip floor tiles is essential.

Non Slip Floor Tiles for Wet Rooms

Standing water is part and parcel of a wet room, sometimes the water will build up due to splashes from the shower and other times it can be from dripping off bodies post-shower. Either way, a smooth floor in this environment spells nothing but trouble and almost guarantees a slip hazard.

So, if you want peace of mind whilst using a wet room, you have to go for non-slip floor tiles. What is it, though, that gives non-slip tiles their slip-resistant qualities? Well, there are a number of different methods for designing slip-resistant tiles:

• Natural Textured – The most popular type of non-slip floor tile embraces textures to reduce the chance of a slip. Sometimes, the natural, rough texture of, for example, black slate tiles ensures that water collects in areas where it won’t be in contact with feet. This creates an enhanced grip which simply isn’t possible with smooth tiles.
• Sand Blasted / Acid Etched – A much more commercial approach for textured tiles comes through the use of sand blasters or acid to create specific textures on standard tiles. Not only does this reduce the slip risk, but it also allows for a wide range of uniform patterns to give your wet room a neat finish.
• Anti-Slip Coating – The final method for protecting wet room floors is by using anti-slip coatings which can be applied to existing floors. These coatings provide a rough, grainy texture and, again, help to reduce contact between foot and water although it’s not as effective as the previous two design methods.

Porcelain tiles are the most common type of tiles used to furnish wet room floors and, in particular, one of the most popular finishes is a mosaic pattern.

With each individual mosaic tile having a textured surface, it provides a highly superior slip-resistance compared to most conventional anti-slip tiles and really minimises the slip risk. Anti-slip mosaic tiles are becoming more and more popular, so, if you want the best finish on the market, head straight for these tiles when you start buying.

Finding the Right Tiles for your Next Project

We have worked with a number of commercial developers and specifiers to help source non slip floor tiles for wet rooms and other bathroom environments. This could range from custom or bespoke tiles through to low cost, high volume orders. If you’d like to discuss how we can support you one your next project, don’t hesitate to get in touch.