Non Slip Flooring

Flooring material is more varied than ever and there seem to be an almost infinite number of choices. Obviously the choices depend on function as well as fashion, and will vary depending on the room or area and its intended purpose.

For some areas, non slip flooring is highly recommended, for examples rooms that tend to have excessive moisture or spills, like bathrooms and kitchens, and areas like outdoor patios, basements, garages, and around swimming pools. We list some of several options below.

There is flooring made from materials such as vinyl or linoleum and even cork (beautiful in kitchens) which is non slip. Cork may seem like a strange option, but cork flooring is durable, easy to clean, environmentally friendly, and has the look of hardwood but a feel closer to carpet. It comes in various colors ranging from a honey tone to black. Vinyl is also durable and easy to clean and comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns to complement any decor. Linoleum is another favorite as it's non petroleum based and often referred to as environmentally friendly as well.

There is special slip-resistant tile which has been treated with an abrasive material, roughening up the surface for safety.

In some places non slip rubber flooring may be appropriate, for example in a garage or basement. Often this resembles a large rubber mat and comes in large rolls which can be easily installed using double-sided carpet tape or adhesive, and often makes a relatively easy do it yourself project. Rubber flooring has been traditionally used commercially and industrially, but with the wider array becoming available is starting to be used in residential settings as well, for example in home kitchens. Non slip rubber flooring doesn't necessarily mean ugly!

If you are using a flooring like wood or another which is not non slip, you can always add non slip decorative rugs, for example in hallways, or even non slip tape, for example on stairs.

There are also non slip coatings and treatments that can be applied to varies types of floors including porcelain, fiberglass, and metal which improve the traction.

There are a number of other considerations about flooring as well, such as will the new floor have continuity with other floors in the house, color selection and possible redecorating of the room, whether the floor will be in a high traffic area such as a hallway or front room, cost certainly, care in maintaining and cleaning, and whether you can easily install it yourself.

Which Type of Flooring do I Choose? by Lowes may be a help resource.