Wet Tile Slip Resistance and Surface Traction

Floor Detective® Claims and Conditions Guide

Summary

Wet tile slip resistance and surface traction are influenced by the interaction between flooring surface texture, water exposure, contaminants, maintenance conditions, and pedestrian traffic. Smooth or polished tile surfaces may allow water or contaminants to remain as a continuous film across the surface, while textured surfaces may help interrupt that film and improve direct contact between footwear and the flooring surface. Slip resistance is not determined solely by appearance, as maintenance residue, soap film, oils, environmental exposure, footwear, and surface wear may significantly influence traction behavior. Evaluation focuses on actual field conditions, surface characteristics, environmental exposure, and maintenance history rather than assuming a floor is inherently safe or unsafe based solely on finish type or texture. Related pages include Tile DCOF Slip Resistance Test, ASTM D2047 Static Coefficient of Friction Test, and Tile and Stone Floor Problems.

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