Tile Anti-Slip Ratings Explained
The Ramp Test and R Values are the standard methods used to assess the slip resistance of porcelain tiles for safety and usability in different environments.
The Ramp Test, formally known as the Ramp Test for Slip Resistance, is a standardised procedure used to evaluate how slip-resistant a flooring material is. During the test, a person walks on a tile surface set on an inclined plane. The angle of the ramp is gradually increased until the person begins to slip, and the angle at which slippage occurs corresponds to a specific rating — known as the R rating.
R Values are the numerical ratings assigned after the Ramp Test. Higher R values indicate greater slip resistance, making tiles more suitable for areas where safety matters — bathrooms, kitchens, wet rooms, outdoor spaces and commercial environments.
Which R rating do I need?
- Bathrooms and wet rooms R11 recommended for slip resistance in wet conditions Browse bathroom tile pairings
- Kitchen floors (residential) R10 or R11 depending on layout and use Browse kitchen tile pairings
- Living rooms and bedrooms R9 sufficient for dry indoor areas Browse living space pairings
- Outdoor terraces and pool surrounds R11 or R12 recommended for wet exterior use Browse outdoor tile pairings
- High-traction and structured finishes Grip-finish porcelain across multiple R ratings Browse grip-finish porcelain
- Commercial or industrial floors R12 or R13 depending on environment Book a specialist consultation
R rating reference
R ratings are quoted from R9 to R13, with each rating indicating a broader range of suitable applications.
| Rating | Slip resistance | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|
| R9 | Minimal | Dry interior areas — living rooms, bedrooms, hallways |
| R10 | Normal | General residential and light commercial floors |
| R11 | Good | Bathrooms, kitchens and higher-traction areas |
| R12 | Good (wet-rated) | Demanding wet environments and commercial floors |
| R13 | Very high | Heavy-duty commercial and industrial floors |
Testing methodology (DIN 51130)
DIN Standard Ramp Testing (DIN 51130) is the European standard method for measuring slip resistance. It is categorised as an off-site activity because of the equipment required to conduct the test.
Slip Resistance Values (RSV) are factory-gate measurements taken from supplied tiles. In the DIN 51130 method, a lubricated inclined platform is adjusted to a gradually increasing gradient, and the angle at which a person walking on it slips is measured. The resulting angle is converted into an R rating on the standard R9-R13 scale.
A note on ramp angles. We deliberately don’t publish the specific ramp test angles alongside our tiles. This information is sometimes confused with the angle a floor may safely be set to — which is a different measurement entirely. The R rating (R9 to R13) is the appropriate specification for buyers and installers.
Ramp Test Certificates are available on request for any tile in our range. Contact us on 020 3696 0588 or enquiry@emporiosurfaces.com to request certification.
For further information on the Ramp Test procedure, see the Health and Safety Executive’s guidance.
Common questions
Which R rating do I need for a bathroom?
R11 is the recommended rating for bathrooms and wet rooms. It offers good slip resistance for surfaces that regularly encounter water while remaining comfortable underfoot. Browse bathroom tile pairings.
What R rating is best for a kitchen?
R10 is suitable for most residential kitchens. If the kitchen has direct access to outdoor areas or is prone to spills, R11 provides additional slip resistance. Browse kitchen tile pairings.
Do I need an R11 rating in a bathroom?
R11 is recommended but not mandatory in residential bathrooms. Building regulations vary, and factors such as underfloor heating, in-shower use and mobility considerations affect the choice. If you’re unsure, our specialists can advise on the right rating for your specific project.
What R rating is required for outdoor tiles?
R11 is the minimum recommended for outdoor porcelain. R12 is preferred for pool surrounds, seating areas and other zones with prolonged water exposure. Browse outdoor tile pairings.
What’s the difference between R11 and R12?
Both R11 and R12 offer good slip resistance. R11 is suitable for residential wet areas including bathrooms and kitchens. R12 is rated for more demanding wet or commercial environments — outdoor pool surrounds, spa areas, commercial kitchens and shower rooms in gyms or hotels.
Are polished porcelain tiles slip-rated?
Polished porcelain typically isn’t given an R rating. The polished finish produces a smooth reflective surface intended for dry indoor use where slip resistance is not a primary concern — such as living rooms, hallways and feature walls. For applications where slip resistance matters, choose a natural, honed, structured or grip finish instead. Browse grip-finish porcelain.
Which porcelain finish is most slip-resistant?
Structured and grip finishes typically offer the highest slip resistance, often rated R11 or above. Natural and honed finishes fall in the middle range (R10-R11). Polished finishes are not slip-rated and are intended for dry indoor use only. Every tile in our range shows its finish and R rating (where applicable) on the product page.
Can I get a Ramp Test Certificate for a specific tile?
Yes. Ramp Test Certificates are available on request for tiles in our range. Contact us on 020 3696 0588 or email enquiry@emporiosurfaces.com with the product reference.
What is DIN 51130?
DIN 51130 is the European standard method for testing slip resistance using a lubricated inclined platform. The angle at which a person walking on the surface begins to slip is measured and converted to an R rating from R9 to R13.
Not sure which rating is right for your project?
Our specialists have advised on over 20 years of premium tile installations across residential and commercial projects. If you’re planning a renovation and want to check the right R rating for your specific application, we can help.
Or call us on 020 3696 0588 — Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm