Written by Dano Estermann, Co-Founder of Stellmann Non-Slip Coatings
CSIRO-certified slip resistance specialists serving commercial facilities, aged care operators, and facility managers across Australia since 2019.
Want my team to help you with slip resistance, click here.
If you're searching for a surface gripper solution, you're likely dealing with the very real danger of slippery floor tiles in your home or workplace. That glossy porcelain in your bathroom or the polished concrete in your commercial entry might look fantastic, but when wet, these surfaces can become serious hazards.
Our range of products is designed to increase traction on slippery floor tiles in wet and high-traffic areas. This includes everything from physical aids like mats and adhesive treads through to chemical treatments and professional non-slip coatings. At Stellmann, we offer CSIRO-certified clear coatings that fall into this category, providing a permanent gripper solution without compromising the aesthetics.
Common problem areas across Australia include:

The statistics paint a concerning picture. According to data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, falls are a leading cause of hospitalised injury across all age groups. Safe Work Australia reports that slips, trips, and falls consistently rank among the top causes of workplace compensation claims, with average incident costs exceeding $15,000 per case. For businesses, this doesn't just mean medical expenses it includes lost productivity, potential legal action, and reputational damage.
This is where Australian Standards come into play. AS 4586 sets out slip resistance requirements for new pedestrian surface materials, while AS 4663 covers the assessment of existing surfaces. Any serious tile gripper solution should align with these standards to ensure measurable, documented safety improvements.
Here's the challenge: many off-the-shelf tile gripper solutions don't come with independent slip rating tests. You might purchase a product that claims to improve grip, but without CSIRO testing or documented P3, P4, or P5 ratings, you're essentially guessing at your level of protection. That's a significant gap when WHS compliance and personal safety are on the line.
At Stellmann, our surface gripper products are engineered with both security and ease of use in mind, making them an ideal choice for a wide variety of flooring projects across Australia. Whether you're working on a residential renovation or a large-scale commercial installation, each solution is designed to protect your floor and ensure a secure, even fit for your floor.
Every product page on our website provides comprehensive product details, including package contents, width, depth, and material specifications. This transparency helps you select the right gripper for your specific needs, ensuring a perfect match for your project. We understand that choosing the right product is crucial, which is why we offer a free return policy if the gripper solution you select isn't quite right, you can easily exchange or return it, making your experience with us as happy and hassle-free as possible.
Our products are crafted to create a strong bond between the speciality coat and the floor, delivering long-lasting security and a professional finish. With a wide range of products in stock, you can quickly find the perfect solution for your application.
The Australian market offers several categories of non-slip tile gripper solutions, each with different durability, visual impact, and compliance profiles. Some products are also marketed under the term 'tile grip', and these may include similar categories of solutions. Understanding these categories will help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs, budget, and risk level.
In this section, we'll break down temporary solutions, surface treatments, and permanent coatings before presenting a clear comparison table. The goal is to give you objective information so you can find the right fit whether that's a simple mat for a rental property or a CSIRO-certified coating for a commercial facility.
Temporary gripper for tiles options include non-slip mats, adhesive strips, stick-on treads, and rubber runners. You'll commonly find these in bathrooms, entryways, and on ramps where a quick, removable solution is needed.
Key advantages:
Key drawbacks:
Consider a residential scenario: a homeowner places a rubber bath mat in their shower. It provides immediate grip and costs less than $30. However, after six months, the suction cups have weakened, the mat shifts during use, and mould has started growing underneath. The "solution” has become part of the problem.
In a commercial setting, a small business might place entry mats at their front door during wet weather. While this reduces immediate slip risk, the mats can become saturated, shift position, and lack any compliance documentation if an incident occurs and WorkSafe investigates.
Some tile grip products take a more aggressive approach, using acid-etching or mechanical grinding to roughen ceramic, porcelain, or stone tiles. The idea is to create a permanent texture that improves wet slip resistance without adding any visible product to the surface.
Perceived benefits:
Significant risks and drawbacks:
Once tiles are etched or ground, the change is irreversible. For high-end homes, hotels, or retail spaces where aesthetics matter, this creates a significant problem. Many facility managers across Australia are now moving away from aggressive etching toward tested non-slip coatings that can be renewed without permanently damaging the substrate.
This category includes non-slip paints and clear or coloured coatings designed to bond to tiles and provide ongoing slip resistance. Stellmann's clear CSIRO-certified systems fall into this category, representing the modern approach to permanent tile gripper solutions.
There's an important distinction within this category: generic anti-slip paints are often coloured and change the tile's appearance significantly, while modern clear coatings preserve the original finish while adding a micro-texture that improves grip.
Benefits of quality non-slip coatings:
Stellmann Non-Slip Coatings are independently tested by CSIRO, providing architects, occupational therapists, NDIS project specifiers, and facility managers with documented slip resistance for compliance and audits. These coatings can be applied as DIY kits for homeowners or through certified installers for larger commercial sites across Australia.

| Feature | Temporary Solutions (Mats, Tapes) | Chemical/Etch Treatments | Generic Anti-Slip Paints | Stellmann CSIRO-Certified Coatings |
| Durability | 6-12 months | Permanent (lasts up to 12 months) | 1-2 years | 2-4 years |
| Impact on Aesthetics | Visible product on surface | Permanent damage to glaze | Changes tile colour | Almost clear appearance |
| AS 4586 Compliance | Rarely tested | Difficult to verify | Sometimes tested | CSIRO-tested P3/P4/P5 |
| Maintenance | Frequent replacement | Minimal (cleaning harder) | Periodic recoating | Simple cleaning, periodic renewal |
| Reversibility | Fully removable | Irreversible | Can be stripped | Can be renewed or stripped |
| WHS Audit Ready | No documentation | Limited documentation | Variable | Full compliance documentation |
Our gripper products are built for universal design and adaptability, making them suitable for a broad spectrum of flooring types. This versatility means you can use our grippers in both residential and commercial settings, seamlessly integrating them into existing flooring systems for a secure and professional result.
We offer a diverse selection of grippers with varying widths and depths, allowing you to select the ideal product for your specific application. This ensures a secure, even installation every time, regardless of the flooring material. Our grippers are engineered to work effortlessly with other flooring materials, providing a strong, reliable bond and a flawless finish.
Finding the right gripper for your project is easy with our intuitive website. Simply browse our range, select the product that best suits your needs, and enjoy a straightforward, hassle-free shopping experience. With Stellmann, you can be confident that your flooring installation will be secure, adaptable, and built to last.
Selecting the right tile gripper solution isn't a one-size-fits-all decision. Whether you're a homeowner protecting your family, a facility manager ensuring WHS compliance, or a tradie advising clients, the best choice depends on several key factors.
Key decision factors to consider:
Slip rating guidance by application:
Decision checklist:
Scenario 1: Elderly parent's bathroom in Brisbane Your mother has moved into a single-storey home with polished porcelain tiles in the bathroom. She's had near-misses on the wet floor. A P3-rated clear coating from Stellmann would provide permanent protection without changing the look of her bathroom, giving both of you peace of mind.
Scenario 2: Busy café entry in Melbourne Your café has a heritage-listed tiled entrance that becomes dangerously slippery when customers track in rain. You need AS 4586 compliance documentation for your insurance and WorkSafe obligations. A CSIRO-certified P4 coating maintains the historic aesthetic while providing measurable, documented slip resistance.
Stellmann can help interpret test reports and match the correct P-rating to Australian Building Code and WorkSafe guidance for your specific use case. This ensures you don't over-specify (wasting money) or under-specify (leaving risk on the table).
Proper installation and ongoing maintenance are essential to getting the most out of your tile gripper. At Stellmann, we make it easy for you to select the right gripper for your specific floor type whether you're working with tiles, concrete, or a combination of surfaces. Each product page on our shop provides detailed product information, including application notes and usage tips, so you can confidently add the needed gripper to your package.
To protect your floor and ensure long-term security, always follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and usage. Regular cleaning and periodic inspection of your gripper will help maintain its effectiveness and prevent any potential damage to your tiles. This proactive approach not only extends the life of your flooring but also enhances the overall stability and safety of your installation.
Shopping with Stellmann is designed to be hassle-free. With free shipping across Australia, you can easily find and add the right gripper solution to your order, ensuring you have everything needed for your project. Our wide range of gripper accessories means you can select products tailored to your specific application, making us your one-stop shop for all flooring security needs. For happy customers, we provide clear product details and helpful notes on every page, so you can make an informed decision and achieve the best results for your space.
Modern tile gripper solutions from Stellmann are engineered to make installation work faster, easier, and more productive. By incorporating advanced gripper technology, contractors and installers can handle tiles with greater efficiency, reducing manual labor and minimizing the risk of errors during application. This not only helps protect your tiles and floor but also allows you to measure real improvements in labor efficiency on every project.
Our gripper products are designed for easy application, enabling you to add more projects to your workload without increasing your team size or payroll expenses. The streamlined installation process means you can complete jobs more quickly, maintain high-quality standards, and keep your clients happy with the finished result. Whether you're working on a small residential job or a large commercial installation, Stellmann's gripper solutions add value by making your work easier and more efficient—helping you achieve the productivity and output you need to grow your business.
At Stellmann, we are committed to offering gripper solutions that not only deliver superior performance but also support a more sustainable future. Our products are built for durability and longevity, which means fewer replacements and less waste over the life of your flooring. This approach helps protect both your investment and the environment.
By choosing Stellmann gripper products, you're not only ensuring the security and quality of your flooring installation you're also making a positive contribution to environmental responsibility. Find out more about our commitment to sustainability and how our products can help you protect both your floors and the planet.
Many Australian homeowners search for "best tile gripper for wet areas” expecting a simple DIY-only solution. And for some situations, that's exactly the right approach. However, commercial facilities typically require documented, professionally-applied systems that satisfy compliance requirements.
What's involved in DIY application:
DIY makes sense for:
Professional application involves:
Stellmann offers both pathways. Our DIY non-slip coating kits come with step-by-step guides and instructional videos for homeowners who want to protect their own spaces. For larger or higher-risk sites, our certified installer network covers major Australian cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.
Cost comparison framework:
DIY application is cheaper upfront per square metre—you're providing the labour. Professional installation costs more initially but includes compliance documentation, product warranty, and typically faster application with less downtime for the space.
For a residential bathroom, DIY often makes perfect sense. For an aged care facility or commercial kitchen where an incident could trigger a WorkSafe investigation, professional installation with full documentation is usually the smarter investment.
Stellmann Non-Slip Coatings represent a modern alternative to traditional tile gripper products, designed and tested specifically for Australian conditions and standards. Rather than relying on temporary fixes or irreversible treatments, Stellmann coatings deliver permanent, measurable slip resistance while preserving the appearance of your tiles.
Key differentiators:
Founded in 2019 by Swiss surface-coating specialists, Stellmann now supports both DIY homeowners and commercial facilities nationwide with non-slip solutions. The product range includes clear and coloured options, with VOC-free and low-odour water-based formulas available where suitable.

Case Study 1: Sydney Apartment Bathroom A family in a Sydney apartment was considering rubber mats after their elderly father slipped in the bathroom. Instead, they opted for a Stellmann clear non-slip coating applied by a certified installer. The result? A P3 rating documented to AS 4586, reduced fall risk, and a bathroom that looks exactly as it did before—just safer.
Case Study 2: Queensland Aged Care Facility An aged care facility near Brisbane needed to upgrade their wet corridors to satisfy internal WHS audits and potential WorkSafe inspections. They selected Stellmann's P4/P5 system applied by certified installers. The facility now has full compliance documentation, and staff report noticeably fewer near-miss incidents.
"We were hesitant about coatings because we didn't want to change the look of our marble-effect tiles. After the Stellmann application, you can't tell anything's been done—except the floor is no longer slippery when wet. The invisible finish was exactly what we needed.”
Stellmann solutions help facility managers demonstrate compliance to WorkSafe authorities in NSW, VIC, QLD, and across Australia. Product warranties apply when systems are installed according to specification, giving you additional security.
Ready to take the next step?
Our customers' success stories speak volumes about the effectiveness of Stellmann's tile gripper solutions. On our website, you can find a wide range of case studies and testimonials from happy clients who have used our products to add value to their flooring projects whether in residential homes, commercial spaces, or large-scale installations.
These real-world examples showcase how our gripper solutions have improved labour efficiency, reduced installation costs, and enhanced the overall quality and security of floors and tiles. By reading through these testimonials, you can see firsthand how our products have helped others achieve their goals and why so many customers are happy with their choice.
If you're considering which gripper solution to select for your next project, take a moment to find and review our case studies. They provide valuable insights into the practical benefits of our products and can help you make an informed decision that adds lasting value to your work.
Many tile gripper purchases fail to deliver long-term safety because of a handful of recurring mistakes. Understanding these pitfalls will help you avoid wasted money and, more importantly, prevent incidents that could have been avoided.
Mistake 1: Choosing products with no documented P-rating Many products claim to improve grip but have never been independently tested. Some products marketed as 'tile grip' may fall into this category, lacking proper certification or slip rating documentation. Without AS 4586 testing, you have no way to verify the slip resistance level or satisfy compliance requirements. Better approach: Select products with CSIRO certification and documented P3, P4, or P5 ratings.
Mistake 2: Installing temporary solutions in permanent high-risk areas Placing mats or tapes in commercial entry lobbies, aged care corridors, or restaurant kitchens creates ongoing maintenance burdens and leaves compliance gaps during audits. Better approach: Use permanent coatings for permanent installations where compliance documentation is required.
Mistake 3: Poor surface preparation Rushing the cleaning and prep stage leads to peeling, lifting, or reduced grip within months of application. Contaminants like soap residue and oils prevent proper adhesion. Better approach: Follow manufacturer preparation instructions exactly, or engage certified installers who measure surface cleanliness before application.
Mistake 4: Using aggressive chemical etching without understanding consequences Acid etching permanently damages tile glaze, making surfaces harder to clean and potentially reducing property value. The resulting slip resistance is also difficult to measure precisely. Better approach: Choose non-damaging coatings that can be renewed without harming the substrate.
Mistake 5: Ignoring ongoing maintenance requirements Even the best tile gripper solution will fail if soap scum, oil, or algae is allowed to build up on the surface. Neglected maintenance negates the slip resistance you've paid for. Better approach: Establish a regular cleaning schedule using neutral detergents recommended by your product supplier.
Mistake 6: Overlooking WHS and Building Code obligations Businesses have duty-of-care obligations under Work Health and Safety legislation. Failing to document slip resistance can leave you exposed during audits or after incidents. Better approach: Maintain compliance documentation including product specifications, application records, and AS 4663 test results where applicable.
Mistake 7: Not testing before full application Applying a coating to an entire floor without first testing on a small, inconspicuous area can lead to unexpected results on certain tile types. Better approach: Always apply to a test patch first and allow full curing before assessing appearance and grip.
Stellmann's approach helps avoid these common mistakes through clear installation instructions, technical support, access to certified installers, and independent CSIRO testing with documented slip ratings. When you work with Stellmann, you're not just buying a product—you're accessing a system designed to deliver measurable, lasting results.
This section answers common questions not fully covered above, focused on practical concerns from Australian homeowners and facility managers.
Quality coatings like Stellmann's typically last 2-4 years in residential bathrooms, depending on traffic levels, cleaning regimen, and exposure to UV light. High-traffic commercial spaces may require more frequent renewal. Regular cleaning with neutral detergents helps extend lifespan, while harsh chemical cleaners can accelerate wear.
Temporary products like mats and tapes can be removed easily with no residue. Clear non-slip coatings can usually be stripped or over-coated as part of a professional refurbishment process. However, acid etching is permanent—the physical alteration to the tile glaze cannot be reversed. If future flexibility matters, coatings are a better choice than etching.
Once fully cured (typically 24-48 hours depending on the product), reputable water-based, low-VOC coatings are safe for normal household use, including families with children and pets. Stellmann products are designed with residential spaces in mind. The key is following curing times strictly—keep foot traffic off the surface until the product has fully hardened.
For commercial and high-risk sites, AS 4663 slip testing is recommended to verify the installed slip resistance and provide documentation for compliance purposes. For residential applications, testing is generally not required but can provide peace of mind. Stellmann can help arrange or interpret slip tests where needed for your project.
Quality clear coatings are designed to preserve the original tile appearance. However, a slight change in sheen may be visible on some surfaces, particularly high-gloss tiles, as the micro-texture that provides grip can marginally reduce reflectivity. We recommend applying to a test patch in an inconspicuous area first to assess the visual result before full application.
Tile gripper solutions range from simple mats and tapes through to CSIRO-certified non-slip coatings, each suited to different risk levels, aesthetic requirements, and compliance obligations. The right choice for your space depends on whether you're protecting a family bathroom or managing slip risk across a commercial facility.
Key points to remember:
Whether you need to protect your parents' bathroom, secure compliance for an aged care facility, or add non-slip services to your trade business, Stellmann is here to help.
Take the next step:
Stellmann Non-Slip Coatings is Australian-owned, CSIRO-tested, and has protected thousands of homes and commercial sites across the country. When you're ready to stop worrying about slippery tiles and start enjoying lasting peace of mind, we're here to help you find the right solution.
These ratings indicate the level of slip resistance under wet barefoot conditions, tested according to AS 4586. P3 is suitable for level surfaces with low to moderate slip risk (residential bathrooms). P4 is required for surfaces with higher slip risk such as outdoor stairs and ramps. P5 provides the highest slip resistance for areas like commercial kitchens and industrial wet areas. Selecting the correct rating ensures your surface meets the safety requirements for its intended use.
Can Stellmann non-slip coatings be applied over existing sealers or coatings on tiles?
In most cases, existing sealers or coatings need to be removed or the surface properly prepared before applying a Stellmann non-slip coating. Applying over incompatible existing layers can compromise adhesion and reduce the lifespan of the new coating. Our technical team can advise on preparation requirements for your specific situation, and certified installers will assess surface conditions before application.
For formal measurement, AS 4663 provides the methodology for testing slip resistance on existing surfaces using a pendulum test or other approved methods. For homeowners, a simple "feel test” when the surface is wet can give a general indication, though this isn't suitable for compliance purposes. Commercial facilities should consider professional slip testing to document slip resistance levels for insurance and WHS records. For those evaluating ways to improve slip resistance, exploring the benefits of concrete floor coatings can provide long-term safety solutions.
Regular cleaning with neutral pH detergents is typically all that's required. Avoid harsh acidic or alkaline cleaners that can degrade the coating over time. Remove soap scum, oil, and organic growth (like algae on outdoor surfaces) promptly, as these can reduce effective slip resistance even on coated tiles. With proper maintenance, Stellmann coatings maintain their effectiveness throughout their 2-4 year typical lifespan.
Stellmann's solutions are engineered to work seamlessly with a wide variety of flooring types, making them a versatile choice for any project across Australia. Whether you're installing over concrete, wood, or tile floors, our solutions provide a secure and stable foundation. With a range of gripper products available in different widths and depths, it's easy to find the right fit for your specific floor type and application.
Our grippers are suitable for both residential and commercial settings, offering a reliable and long-lasting solution for any flooring need. In addition to traditional installations, our products are also ideal for specialty applications giving you even more flexibility for creative or high-traffic spaces. Plus, with free shipping available Australia-wide, it's never been easier to get the gripper you need delivered straight to your door.
No matter the size or scope of your flooring project, Stellmann makes it easy to select and add the right gripper to your package. Our commitment to quality and convenience means you can work confidently, knowing your floor is protected and your installation will stand the test of time.
Stellmann's innovative gripper solutions, including the Pattern Oriented Tile Installation System (POTIS™), are trusted by professionals and DIY enthusiasts throughout the construction and flooring industries. Designed to make installation easy and efficient, our products help protect your investment by reducing labor costs and improving installation speed.
Our solutions are a go-to choice for large-scale commercial projects, such as office buildings, hotels, and retail spaces, as well as for smaller residential renovations. The versatility of our system means you can install a wide variety of tile types and patterns with confidence, knowing you'll achieve a secure and professional result every time.
To further support your installation process, we offer a comprehensive range of accessories and tools—including tile grippers and tray liners—making it easy to complete your project from start to finish. By choosing Stellmann, you're not only protecting your flooring, but also your profit margins, thanks to products designed to streamline work and boost productivity. Whether you're a seasoned installer or tackling your first DIY project, our solutions make every step easy and efficient.
At Stellmann, we understand that every flooring project is unique, which is why our range is crafted from high-quality materials and designed to meet the technical requirements of a wide range of floor types. Available in various widths and depths, our products can be tailored to fit different floor sizes and materials, ensuring a precise and secure installation for every application.
Our website provides detailed product information and technical specifications for each gripper, making it easy to select the right product for your needs. Whether you're working with concrete, wood, or tile floors, our grippers are engineered to work seamlessly with your chosen flooring material and can be used alongside other flooring products for a complete solution.
Before making a purchase, we recommend reviewing our product documentation and technical specifications to ensure you select the ideal surface gripper for your specific application.
Health and safety are at the core of everything we do at Stellmann. Our flooring solutions are designed to provide a secure, stable surface for installation, significantly reducing the risk of slips, trips, and other accidents during and after the flooring process.
We supply clear, easy-to-follow instructions and guidelines for the safe use and installation of all our products, helping you work confidently and efficiently. Our commitment to safety extends to the materials we use—our products are made from non-toxic, environmentally friendly components, ensuring a healthy workspace for installers and end users alike.
By prioritising safety in both our products and operations, we help protect not only your floors but also the well-being of everyone involved in your project. Stellmann is dedicated to continuously improving our offerings to meet and exceed the highest safety standards, so you can trust that your flooring installation is in safe hands.
We reply within 24 hours.
Do you need immediate assistance?
Give us a call at 1300 987 095
!