If you have ever wondered how anti-slip treatments work, you are in the right place. In this article, we will dive into why anti-slip treatments were developed and how they work. One of the biggest misconceptions is that it is a coating, but this is definitely not the case. When developing anti-slip treatments, we always take a scientific approach and a great deal of care is taken in selecting the safest raw materials available.
Why were anti-slip treatments developed?
Tile manufacturers work on specific standards, but they don’t always take safety into account. The fundamental purpose of a floor tile is to cover the floor. The secondary purpose is to make your floor look great. Floor tiles are used in avert 90% of all building applications but are often used in the wrong way. Because of budget constraints, lack of knowledge, or ignorance, tiles are often misused. When we receive inquiries about how anti-slip treatments work, most times, it is caused by the wrong tiles being used.
While the inventor is unknown, the concept has become a standard in flooring for many years. The application of anti-slip treatments have become common practice in public areas and is prescribed by the National Floor Safety Institute
How do anti-slip treatments work?
The treatment is a 3-step process involving cleaning, treating, and neutralizing. When complete, the surface is neutral and hygienic because there is no product left on the floor. No damage is caused to the tile during the process. The core function of the anti-slip treatment is to create microscopic mountains and valleys on the tile by re-arranging the existing glaze on the surface of the tile. By creating the mountains and valleys, the surface allows for water to be dispersed easier and prevents hydroplaning. Another feature is that tiny cup holes occur on the surface, and these act like suction cups when treading on the floor.
So you end up with a surface that disperses water and has a minute vacuum. (Basically, the same principle as a good car tire in wet weather) The advantages are many, the most obvious being safety and cost savings (versus ripping and replacing). The disadvantages are virtually nil.
We have developed a range of slip-prevention products over the past 15 years that are unmatched in the industry. From anti-slip tape to non-slip coatings, we carry it all. CONTACT US for more information on slippery floors.
