Slip-Resistant Flooring

Different types of flooring options serve different functions. Beyond enhancing a living space, they can also help optimize it. Slip-resistant flooring is a type of flooring that is designed with material properties that help reduce the slipperiness of the surface.  

In fact, the roughness of the floor creates a positive traction which decreases the possibility of slipping, skidding and falling. Depending on the type of industry you are in, investing in slip-resistant flooring can be extremely beneficial for your business. Particularly if the individuals occupying the space are prone to accidents. Not only will this type of flooring prevent slip and falls, but it will also help prevent lawsuits. 

Most facilities require slip-resistant flooring, and some industries that should definitely be equipped with it include hospitality, healthcare, education, retail, office building, as well as manufacturing. Basically anywhere that has high foot traffic is at high-risk for falls.

For example, within the hospitality industry, employees working in a commercial kitchen would benefit from slip-resistant flooring because they are in a high-risk environment and securing the floor would minimize potential accidents. The same goes for locations such as hospitals or schools and retirement homes. 

Let’s examine some ideal flooring options from worst to potentially the best:

Laminate Flooring

The unfortunate truth about laminate flooring is that while it is a cost-effective alternative to hardwood flooring, it comes with its own set of drawbacks. Particularly if you’re looking for slip-resistant flooring. Known as perhaps the slipperiest flooring type, laminate flooring is quick to “destabilize” upon accumulation of dirt. Due to how slick they are, even the smallest amount can really affect the traction an individual has.

 

Tile Flooring

With tile flooring, you’re unlikely to trip and fall. Simply because this flooring type is both consistent as well as smooth and durable. While tiles don’t consist of any types of bumps or gaps that could throw someone off, the flat surface does come with some drawbacks. If there’s any type of moisture or grease, it will turn the durable floor into a hazardous one. In fact, glossy tiles are more susceptible to this threat than matte tiles. Though both tile types have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, if you’re looking for slip-resistant flooring – it may be best to avoid this flooring type. 

 

Hardwood Flooring

By nature, hardwood is not slippery. However, this elegant flooring style requires a lot of upkeep. Maintenance is the real culprit here because after cleaning the hardwood, applying any type of coat of wax or polish can significantly increase the chances of anyone slipping on the floor. So while this hardwood is not as slippery as laminate or tile flooring, it can still cause one to slip depending on how you choose to clean it. 

 

Vinyl Flooring

This type of flooring is the best anti-slip solution if you’re looking for a sturdy surface for a home, restaurant, office, or any other type of space. Due to its textured and resin-coated surface, not only is vinyl flooring durable, it also has a more rubbery finish. This helps reduce exposure to moisture, which makes vinyl planks an ideal option if you are in the market for an anti-slip flooring. 

 

Carpet Flooring

Lastly, this one is a no-brainer. If you’re looking for a flooring that is beautiful, warm, comforting and does not make noise, carpet flooring is the optimal choice. In addition, the risk of someone slipping, tripping or falling on carpet is significantly less compared to any other flooring type. So if you are in an industry, where carpet makes sense – such as an office space, that is your best bet. 

 

Of course each flooring type comes with benefits and drawbacks. Even though laminate flooring isn’t the ideal pick if you’re searching for anti-slip flooring, it holds its own in other aspects. The same can be said about tiles and hardwood flooring. 

Each option is a great solution, depending on the industry in which you would want to implement your flooring selection. For example, if you do not like the carpet option for a retirement home, your next best option is vinyl flooring. This isn’t to say, however, that you cannot use tiles or laminate flooring if you wish to. In fact, the market is filled with ways to minimize slipping. From anti-slip coating options, to wearing sensible footwear to the type of cleaning chemicals you can use and everything in between. All flooring is beautiful and usable with a little elbow-grease.

At Flooring Liquidators, our inventory is filled with a large selection of options, from the design, colour, pattern and finishes. So no matter what industry you are a part of, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. If you’re struggling with a decision, simply contact our team of experts. With years of knowledge and expertise, we can assist you in finding the flooring – whether you’re looking for slip-resistant or any other type – that meets your needs.