Tile Guide

V RATINGS

Modern manufacturing techniques, like digital printing, allow tile ranges to replicate the natural variations found in materials such as stone or timber. These tiles can have multiple faces, showing differences in tone, texture, pattern, and color. To assist designers in understanding the expected variation within a tile range, the V Rating scale is applied.

These ratings are provided to help you understand the level of variation you can expect. For tiles rated V2 or higher, you’ll notice distinct differences in color, texture, or pattern between individual pieces. The higher the rating, the more noticeable the variation.

Tiles with V3 and V4 ratings show the most variation, but all categories have some degree of difference. It's important to review your tiles before installation to ensure you’re comfortable with the variation. 

V0: Monochromatic
The tiles are very uniform, monochromatic in colour, with little or no variation. 

V1: Low Variation
The tiles are of uniform appearance, with minimal differences among pieces from the same production run.

V2: Moderate Variation
There are clearly distinguishable differences in tiles of the same colour - in tone, texture and pattern, from tile to tile in the range.

V3: High Variation
There is considerable variation in tiles of the same colour - in tone, texture and pattern, from tile to tile in the range.

V4: Random Variation
A combination of different colours and a high variation in tone texture and pattern, from tile to tile in the range.

SLIP RATINGS

Slip ratings in tiles are essential for determining their suitability and safety in various environments, particularly when it comes to preventing slips and falls in wet conditions. There are two main systems used to evaluate slip resistance: the P Rating and the R Rating.

P Rating

This measures slip resistance using the wet pendulum test, between P0 to P5, with higher P values indicating better slip resistance in wet conditions.

R Rating 

Commonly used in commercial settings, this Oil-Wet Ramp Test  rating measures slip resistance by laying the tiles on a ramp and applying lubricating oil to the surface of them. It ranges from R9 (least slip-resistant) to R13 (most slip-resistant), with higher values offering greater slip resistance.

Slip Rating Requirements

The required slip rating varies depending on whether the tile is intended for residential or commercial use.

For residential settings:

• Bathrooms and kitchens typically require a P3 or R10 rating to ensure safety when the surfaces are wet.
• In living areas or bedrooms, which are less prone to water exposure, a lower rating like P1 or R9 is generally sufficient.

• Restaurants and commercial kitchens require high slip resistance, often needing tiles with a P4-P5 or R12-R13 rating due to frequent wet conditions and high foot traffic.
• Retail spaces and office lobbies tend to use tiles with a P3 or R10 rating, striking a balance between appearance and sufficient slip resistance for moderate traffic.