Every year, thousands of New Zealanders are injured in slip and fall accidents at home — and wet, slippery tiles are among the leading causes. Whether it’s a bathroom floor, a poolside area, or an outdoor deck, slippery tiles pose a serious safety risk, particularly for children and older adults.
Why Do Tiles Become Slippery?
Some tiles are more slip-prone than others by design — polished porcelain and glazed ceramic are beautiful but inherently smooth. But even tiles that start with some texture can become dangerously slick over time due to:
- Soap scum and body oils coating the surface
- Mineral deposits from hard water
- Worn-down surface texture
- Mould or algae growth (especially on outdoor tiles)
- The wrong cleaning products leaving a residue
The Real Cost of a Slip
A fall on a hard tile surface can cause serious injuries — broken wrists, hip fractures, and head injuries are all too common. Beyond the personal toll, liability is also a concern for landlords and business owners. Under New Zealand’s Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, you have a duty to minimise foreseeable hazards.
Anti-Slip Treatment: What It Involves
The Grout Guy’s slippery tile treatment works by creating microscopic pores in the tile surface that provide grip when wet — without changing the look of your tiles. The treatment:
- Is invisible once applied
- Works on ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, and most glazed surfaces
- Dramatically increases wet slip resistance
- Is long-lasting and easy to maintain
- Meets New Zealand building code requirements for slip resistance
Where Is Treatment Most Beneficial?
Anti-slip treatment is especially recommended for: bathrooms and ensuites, shower floors, pool surrounds, outdoor entertaining areas, commercial kitchens, and any tiled area used by elderly residents or young children.
Don’t wait for an accident to happen. Learn more about our anti-slip treatment service or contact us for a quote.