If you’re dealing with a slippery floor, it’s likely you’ve begun your research into fixes and come across three solutions: anti-slip paint, an anti-slip coating, or a professionally applied treatment like NS21.
All three promise the same outcome of better slip resistance, but they all get there in very different ways, which can impact the durability, aesthetic, and disruption it may cause in the installation process.
We’re breaking down how the three compare and how you can work out which is the right option for your space.
What Is Anti-Slip Paint?
Anti-slip paint is a surface-applied product, usually containing a grit additive such as sand or aluminium oxide, that’s rolled or brushed onto a floor. It’s a popular DIY option for decking and steps because it’s widely available and typically a cheaper option for those on a budget.
However, often we see that durability and finish don’t meet the same standard as professional solutions. As the grip comes from the additive sitting on top of the paint film, once that wears down with foot traffic, you’ll likely notice changes in the texture and appearance of the floor. This also means that anti-slip paint more often than not needs replacing periodically to maintain the slip resistance you’re looking for.
What Are Anti-Slip Coatings?
Anti-slip coatings are the next step up from paint. Typically a two-part system of epoxy or polyurethane, they cure into a hard-wearing layer that coats your floor. Coatings typically have added aggregates, which makes them more hard-wearing than paint and a common choice for floors in spaces such as commercial kitchens, warehouses, and external walkways where constant heavy wear is expected.
Although coatings are more robust than paint, they still work by adding a new layer on top of the existing surface. That means the same limitations apply, just usually at a slower rate. The coating can wear, chip, or discolour over time, and reapplication involves stripping back and recoating the floor, which usually means extended downtime.
What Is NS21?
NS21 is an advanced, professionally applied treatment developed by us here at Safety Direct Group. It takes a fundamentally different approach to ensuring slip resistance in flooring by chemically bonding with the existing surface and creating a microscopic honeycomb structure. This increases grip from within the material itself rather than just adding a layer on top of the existing floor.
Because it works at a surface level rather than sitting on top of it, NS21:
- Doesn’t add a visible coating, so the floor keeps its original colour, gloss, and texture
- Doesn’t rely on grit or an applied layer that can wear away or peel
- Creates a mild suction effect underfoot in wet conditions, rather than relying on surface roughness alone
- Is backed by certified slip resistance testing, giving you documented proof of compliance after treatment
If you want to maintain the appearance of your floor in a space such as a hotel entrance, swimming pool surrounds, or tiled bathroom floor, NS21 is a great option to ensure you’re not losing your carefully designed aesthetic in order to meet UK safety standards.
Which Option Should You Choose?
If you need a low-cost, short-term fix for your space that has a lower footfall, anti-slip paint may meet your needs. However, if you’ve got an area that needs to withstand a little more wear and tear and appearance isn’t a priority, we’d recommend looking at an anti-slip coating for more protection.
If you’re looking for an option that ticks all the boxes, from hard-wearing to minimally disruptive in terms of downtime and aesthetic, a bonded treatment like NS21 avoids the compromises that come with adding a layer on top of the floor, while still giving you the certified testing needed to prove compliance.
Get the Right Anti-Slip Protection for Your Floor
Choosing between paint, a coating, and a treatment comes down to your floor type, how it’s used, and how long you need the result to last.
If you’re not sure which approach suits your space, get in touch with our team for advice on the right solution for your floor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NS21 the same as anti-slip paint?
No. Anti-slip paint sits on top of the floor and relies on a grit additive for grip. NS21 chemically bonds with the existing surface, so it doesn’t add a visible layer or change the floor’s appearance.
Does NS21 change the look of my floor?
No. Because NS21 works within the surface rather than adding a coating, the floor keeps its original colour, gloss, and texture after treatment.
How long does anti-slip paint last compared to NS21?
Anti-slip paint typically wears down with foot traffic and needs reapplying periodically. NS21 is designed to be long-lasting, with periodic testing available to confirm the surface remains compliant.
Can NS21 be used on tiled or polished floors?
Yes. NS21 is commonly used on tiled, polished, and natural stone surfaces where a visible coating or gritty texture wouldn’t be suitable, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and pool surrounds.
Do I get proof of compliance after treatment?
Yes. NS21 treatments can be followed by certified slip resistance testing, giving you documented evidence that your floor meets the required safety standard.
