Matt Tiles

Matt tiles carry a low-sheen surface that diffuses rather than reflects light. In commercial specification the matt finish is usually selected for performance rather than appearance: it holds slip resistance in the wet, it does not show traffic marking the way a gloss surface does, and it avoids glare under downlighting.

Specifying matt finishes

• Matt is not automatically slip resistant. A matt appearance and a tested slip value are different things. Confirm the wet PTV to BS 7976-2 for the specific product. Many matt floor tiles reach 36 or above, but the finish name alone is not evidence.
• Glare control. Matt surfaces diffuse reflected light, which matters under continuous downlighting and in daylit atria where a polished floor produces uncomfortable specular reflection.
• Traffic marking. Scuffing and dry footfall marking read far less on matt than on gloss or polished, which is why matt dominates commercial circulation flooring.
• Cleaning. A very fine matt or micro-textured surface can hold residue if cleaned with the wrong product. Confirm the manufacturer's cleaning recommendation and pass it to the facilities team at handover.

For the tested alternative where grip is the governing requirement see slip resistant tiles and PTV rated tiles.

Frequently asked questions

Are matt tiles slip resistant?

Often, but it must be verified. Slip resistance is measured, not inferred from a finish description. Ask for the pendulum test report to BS 7976-2 and check it covers the wet condition and the exact product being ordered.

Are matt tiles harder to clean than gloss?

Not inherently. A smooth matt glaze cleans much like a gloss one. Difficulty arises with deeply textured or structured surfaces, where the profile that provides grip also holds soiling and needs mechanical cleaning.

Where should matt rather than polished tiles be specified?

Entrances, circulation, wet areas, food and beverage floors and anywhere subject to spillage or tracked-in water. Polished finishes are appropriate for dry internal floors and for walls, where slip resistance does not apply.