Guides / Decision guide
Ask for the slip-resistance rating of wet-area tile
How dynamic coefficient of friction is reported for tile, the wet interior value tile makers cite, and what the number cannot promise.
What is not established
- No DCOF value or classification is established for any quoted tile.
- A DCOF value does not guarantee a slip-free floor.
- This guide is not a safety assessment.
What is measured
The Tile Council of North America describes ANSI A326.3 as the laboratory and field method for DCOF, with product-use classifications that manufacturers must report. TCNA notes that a DCOF value does not guarantee a slip-free floor under specific contaminants.
The wet interior value tile makers cite
Florida Tile's technical data page references ANSI A137.1 and a minimum wet DCOF of 0.42 for level interior floors walked on when wet, and says its products are not recommended for exterior horizontal surfaces. MSI's tile FAQ recommends a wet DCOF of at least 0.42 for bathroom floors. These are manufacturer statements of the standard, not a rating for a quoted tile.
- Ask for the DCOF value and the use classification of the exact tile and finish being quoted.
- Check the finish: a manufacturer may rate a matte finish for wet floors and a polished finish only for dry interior floors.
- Keep exterior and covered-lanai floors as a separate question; interior ratings do not cover them.
Original paraphrase of TCNA, Florida Tile and MSI pages. No tile in this draft has a recorded DCOF value.
Sources: TCNA dynamic coefficient of friction; Florida Tile official pages; MSI official flooring pages
Sources
External references are provided for research context. A source link does not indicate enrollment, endorsement, or availability in your area.
- TCNA dynamic coefficient of friction, accessed
- Florida Tile technical data, accessed
- MSI porcelain and ceramic tile, accessed