When considering tile installation in commercial spaces, safety is paramount. In no commercial zone is this more relevant than
in wet areas.
There are several important boxes that tiles need to tick to be suitable for commercial wet areas. Some concern safety, and others are attached to the viability of the tiles as a long-term investment in such a space. This article looks at these critical factors in more detail.
Slip resistance
Safety is top priority, and so tiles exposed to water need to have anti-slip textures with an R-rating of R11 to R13. This represents the maximum bracket for grip in R-ratings, which are calculated using an incline floor test. In the UK, flooring must also typically meet a Pendulum Test Value (PTV) of 45+ – on the UK measurement system used by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – for commercial wet environments.
Water absorption rate
Commercial wet rooms need impervious tiles – that is, tiles with a water absorption rate of 0.5% or less. This is the highest density classification available for commercial flooring. Choose impervious tiles to prevent cracking and structural water ingress. Porcelain is highly recommended over ceramic because it is denser and less porous.
Durability and hardness
Spaces like public showers or commercial kitchens experience substantial foot traffic. Ensure the tile has a high abrasion resistance, such as a PEI rating of IV or V and a Mohs scratch-hardness rating of 7 or higher.
Chemical and thermal resistance
Commercial washrooms and kitchens are subjected to harsh detergents, sanitisers, and hot steam cleaning. Tiles must be resistant to chemicals and thermal shock so they don’t pit, fade, or delaminate.
Grout and installation systems
The tile is only as good as its installation. Failures in commercial wet areas usually stem from structural water leaks. You must specify appropriate substrate preparation, waterproof membranes, and epoxy or advanced cement-based grouts engineered to bond with and match the extreme durability of porcelain custom ceramic tiles.