Enhancing Slip Resistance of Porcelain Pavers
A very commonly asked question is: ‘Are porcelain pavers slippery?’
All-porcelain pavers supplied by Archatrak meet slip resistance standards established by the ceramics industry – ANSI A326.3 American National Standard Test Method for Measuring Dynamic Coefficient of Friction (DCOF) of Hard Surface Flooring Materials. This test requires non-slip pavers to achieve a rating of >0.40 on DM236/89 B.C.R.A. DCOF.
However if required for a specific application, this DCOF can be increased to .87 or greater by applying a mildly acidic anti-slip solution that slightly etches the surface, allowing for an increased suction effect between the paver and bottom of shoes when downward pressure is applied. This treatment can be effective for increasing the DCOF of dry and wet porcelain pavers but is ineffective when covered with snow or ice, so under such conditions, even non-slip pavers can become slippery.
CoverTech ‘GripTreat’
CoverTec ‘GripTreat’ contains a blend of mild acids that when applied on Archatrak porcelain pavers, can produce Wet DCOF test results of 0.87 – 1.0. Higher DCOF can be achieved with a second treatment of ‘GripTreat’.
Low odor ‘GripTreat’ is UV resistant, cannot be detected on paver surface and will not cause discoloration. A single application should last 3-5 years depending on the level of foot traffic and cleaning and maintenance methods. Routine cleaning with CoverTec ‘Emerald Floor Maintainer and Cleaner’ or similar products ensures the etched openings on paver surface remain free of dirt and grease, allowing for the suction effect to occur.
After cleaning pavers with CoverTec ‘SurfaceClean’ and letting them air dry, ‘GripTreat’ takes just 8-10 minutes to complete the etching process when applied between 40-100 deg F. ‘SurfaceClean’ is applied again to neutralize GripTreat and stop the etching process, and once pavers are flushed with clean water they are ready for foot traffic in an hour or less.
1 gallon of ‘GripTreat’ will cover approximately 400-600 sq ft.
Instructions and Technical Data Sheet
Note
The above recommendations on how to reduce slippery floors are the result of research, laboratory tests and experience from the field shared by the manufacturer. The performance of materials suggested can vary depending on the nature and location of the installation, the conditions of use, and the surface finish.
Please note that Archatrak will not be liable for any damage arising from the use of materials suggested, and suggests testing materials on a small, inconspicuous area before applying to the entire area. If in doubt contact CoverTec for technical assistance. If suggested materials could come in contact with waterproof membranes, metal railing and flashing, and other components of your project, contact CoverTec or the manufacturer of those products with any concerns and questions.