DON’T LET YOUR FLOORS BECOME “SLIP HAZARDS”: WHY THE R RATING MATTERS MORE THAN YOU THINK
12/12/2025
When choosing floor tiles, many people focus on color, size, or price. In real daily use, however, the key factor that determines walking safety often comes from a less noticed technical measure: the slip resistance R rating (R-rating) or the COF (Coefficient of Friction).
These are essential standards in the building materials industry and directly impact safety in wet or moisture-prone areas such as bathrooms, gardens, kitchens, and swimming pool zones.

1. What is the R rating? Why are anti-slip tiles graded from R9 to R13?
Under international standards, the R9–R13 scale reflects how slip-resistant a tile surface is:
R9: Low slip resistance, suitable for dry areas
R10: Medium slip resistance, suitable for living rooms and indoor walkways
R11: Good slip resistance, ideal for kitchens, terraces, and humid areas
R12–R13: Very high slip resistance, recommended for swimming pools, wet outdoor zones, and public spaces
The higher the R rating, the better the grip and the lower the risk of slipping and falling.

2. Why should you care about the R rating?
✔ Safer for the whole family
Tiles with a higher R rating increase friction and improve footing in wet conditions. This is especially important for:
- Homes with young children
- Elderly family members
- Areas that frequently come into contact with water

✔ Choosing the right tile for each area
Different spaces require different safety levels:
- Bathrooms and kitchens: R10–R11 tiles
- Gardens and porches: R11–R12 tiles
- Swimming pools and highly slippery zones: R12–R13 tiles
✔ Durable and easy to maintain
A micro-textured surface helps:
- Increase grip
- Reduce visible dirt
- Make cleaning easier
- Maintain long-term aesthetics

3. Gecko: International-standard anti-slip tiles by Dong Tam
Dong Tam’s Gecko anti-slip tile collection is developed based on:
- Daily habits of Vietnamese families
- Tropical humid climate conditions
- The growing priority of safety in modern architecture

Key advantages of Gecko tiles:
- Enhanced-grip surface for effective slip resistance
- R rating performance aligned with international standards
- Clean, modern design that fits many interior styles
- High durability, easy cleaning, and stable performance in all weather conditions
During the festive season, when families gather and move around more often, Gecko helps create a home environment that is safe, steady, and stylish.
Choose Gecko – Choose safety-driven technology.
Choose Gecko – Choose lasting peace of mind for every moment.