In modern shopping centres, ceramic tiles are a popular choice for floor finishes. They are durable, hard-wearing and have a high-quality appearance that suits both retail spaces and central walking routes. However, these same properties also entail a risk: as soon as the floor gets wet, for example due to rain, snow or wet shoe soles, a beautifully tiled floor quickly turns into a slippery and potentially dangerous surface.
This risk also became apparent in this specific shopping centre: visitors reported slipping, staff reported difficulties during cleaning, and increased safety risks arose during the winter months. The owner and managers wanted a solution that:
- increases safety,
- leaves the appearance of the floor intact,
- and is permanently resistant to intensive use.
That is why a treatment with 2C Perma Coat Mat was chosen in combination with Sika anti-slip granules, a permanent and transparent system that ensures lasting grip without affecting the aesthetic character of the ceramic floor.
Problem statement: slippery floors in wet conditions
Ceramic tiles have a naturally slippery surface, especially when they are polished or glazed. In rainy weather or in winter, when people walk in with wet shoes, water can quickly spread across the floor, leading to:
- Reduced grip (especially on walkways and at entrances)
- Hazards of slipping for customers, store employees and cleaning staff
- Risk of injury and legal liability in the event of falls
- An increase in warning signs or temporary emergency solutions
In addition to the physical risks, this also affects the visitor experience, which has a direct impact on store turnover, customer satisfaction and the brand image of the shopping centre.
The solution: 2C Perma Coat Mat + Sika anti-slip granules
The chosen solution consists of two high-quality products that together provide an invisible but effective anti-slip layer:
1. 2C Perma Coat Mat
A matt, transparent two-component coating that has been specially developed for mineral and ceramic substrates. The coating forms a wear-resistant, breathable and moisture-resistant top layer that is resistant to dirt, chemical cleaning and daily intensive use.
2. Sika anti-slip granules
Fine, wear-resistant granules that are sprinkled into the wet coating and ensure an increased R-value (slip resistance value). The grain size is adjusted to the desired balance between comfort and safety.
Step-by-step plan for the treatment
Cleaning and preparation
The tiled floors were intensively cleaned, degreased and roughened where necessary. This ensured a clean and ready-to-bond substrate.
Applying the coating
The 2C Perma Coat Mat was applied evenly with a roller or spray, adjusted to the size of the floor surface.
Sprinkle anti-slip granules
Immediately after application of the coating, the Sika granules are carefully and evenly distributed for optimum slip resistance.
Drying and curing
After drying, a seamless, durable protective layer is formed that not only makes the floor anti-slip, but also more resistant to wear, moisture and dirt.
Technical and functional benefits
- Permanent anti-slip effect, even with intensive use and wet weather
- Transparent and aesthetically neutral: floor retains its original colour and texture
- Wear-resistant and chemically resistant: resistant to cleaning agents and shop traffic
- Fast implementation without closing the shopping centre
- Customised protection: choice of friction level (R9, R10, etc.) depending on location
- Safe for wheelchairs, shopping trolleys, prams and trolleys
Added value for management and shop use
For the owner and manager of the shopping centre, this treatment means:
- Less chance of damage claims or injuries
- No more emergency measures or temporary warning signs required
- Less wear and tear and therefore lower maintenance costs in the long term
- Improved hygiene due to the dirt-repellent effect of the coating
- Higher customer satisfaction and a more pleasant shopping climate
Retailers benefit from an attractive entrance without visual obstacles such as rubber mats or temporary anti-slip striping, which means their shop presentation remains professional.
Application in other sectors
The same technology can be used in:
- Covered shopping arcades
- Supermarkets and food courts
- Stations, airports and parking garages
- Hospitals, healthcare institutions and educational buildings
- Hospitality and leisure environments with tiled floors
This approach is valuable wherever safety, aesthetics and intensive use come together.
The floor in the shopping centre is now not only visibly untouched, but also noticeably safer. Visitors notice the difference immediately: more grip, less risk of slipping, a more pleasant feeling underfoot, without the appearance of the floor having changed. For the owner, it means less risk and less maintenance; for retailers, a more attractive entrance; and for the customer, a safer shopping experience.
