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Tile Slip Ratings
Tile Slip Ratings
So what is an R number exactly? Why is a tile rated with A, B or C? What does it all mean? Tile Slip ratings can be quite confusing so we’ve aimed to explain the different tests and how the information can be used to help you decide which tiles may be best for your project or application.
It's important to understand that the surfaces of glazed and unglazed porcelain vary in resistance to slipping when exposed to differing moisture levels and there are various slip rating tests and ratings that apply.
Ramp Test for R Ratings – DIN51130 & DIN51097
The Ramp Test is a test method for slip resistance of a tile and it generates an R-value - the values range from R9 to R13.
This table summarises a German National Standard test method DN51130 which is for shod foot where an individual walks on a wet surface wearing cleated safety boots whilst being held in a harness. The angle of the ramp is adjusted and whilst doing so the degree at which the individual slips is the R value.
DIN 51130 | Slip Angle | Wet Slip Risk | Suitable For |
---|---|---|---|
R9 | 6-10 deg | High Risk | Dry Areas |
R10 | 10-19 deg | Moderate | Areas kept mostly dry |
R11 | 19-27 deg | Moderate | Can be occasionally wet |
R12 | 27-35 deg | Low Risk | Commercial Wet Areas |
R13 | 35 deg | Low Risk | Very Wet Commercial Areas |
An additional layer of ramp testing – DIN 51097 is in wet and barefoot conditions with the same angles repeated. This should be considered where tiles are being used around swimming pools, wetrooms, or any other place footwear would not be worn.
DIN 51097 | Uses |
---|---|
A | Dry barefoot areas (domestic use, kitchen, living rooms, bathroom) |
B | Pool surrounds & showers |
C | Commercial pools, jacuzzi’s & gym showers |
Pendulum Test
The Pendulum CoF test replicates the motion of a slipping foot and the tiles in response to that motion. The value generated is called the PTV or Pendulum Test Value. It’s a different way of testing slip resistance, however, it’s values can be directly compared to the results of the previous two tests.
R-Value (Shod Foot) | PTV |
---|---|
R9 | 11-18 |
R10 | 18-34 |
R11 | 34-51 |
R12 | 51-70 |
R13 | 70+ |
ABC - Value (Bare Foot) | PTV |
A | 21-31 |
B | 32-42 |
C | 45+ |