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.

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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.

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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

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✔ 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

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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

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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.

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