Stone Tile Lippage vs. Trippage
By Fred Hueston
What Every Stone Restoration Pro Needs to Know: In the world of stone tile flooring, one of the most common problems we come across is lippage, that annoying unevenness at the edge of adjacent tiles. But did you know that not all lippage is created equal? Some is so severe it crosses the line from a cosmetic issue to a genuine safety hazard. That’s when we start talking about trippage.
Let’s break down the difference, when it’s a real problem, and what to do about it.
What Is Lippage?
Lippage occurs when one tile is set slightly higher or lower than the neighboring tiles. Even a slight variation can create shadows that make the floor look uneven, but it’s not always a trip hazard. According to industry standards, specifically the ANSI A108.02, Section 4.3.7, acceptable lippage for stone tile installations is usually no more than 1/32 inch (approximately 1 mm) plus the inherent warpage of the tile.
But let’s be honest. Even within that standard, some clients will find it unsightly, and some situations, like natural stone installations, can make that 1/32 inch stand out more than you’d expect.
When Lippage Becomes Trippage
So what’s the difference between lippage and trippage? Trippage is when lippage goes beyond being just an aesthetic concern and actually creates a trip hazard. Think about thresholds, entryways, or transitions. These are places where foot traffic might catch an unexpected edge and send someone stumbling. If you can snag a shoe on it or it looks like a speed bump in a parking lot, that’s trippage territory.
There’s no official industry term “trippage” in the standards, but it’s a term many of us use in the field when the lippage is bad enough to be a safety hazard. There’s no precise measurement to define it, but you’ll know it when you see it, and your clients will too.
Do You Always Need to Remove Lippage?
Here’s where your expertise as a restoration contractor really makes a difference. Not all lippage, especially minor, within-standards lippage, needs to be removed. Sometimes it’s more cost-effective and less invasive to correct the problem through proper restoration techniques.
Techniques like honing, grinding, and polishing can blend minor lippage into a uniform surface, making it less noticeable and improving slip resistance. This approach can often save time and money compared to a complete tear-out and reset.
However, if the lippage has crossed the line into trippage territory, where safety becomes an issue, removal or more aggressive grinding is usually the best and safest solution.
Understanding the difference between lippage and trippage helps you set client expectations, evaluate safety concerns, and determine the best restoration approach. Always refer to the standards, but remember that even within the guidelines, your expertise makes all the difference.
So next time you see lippage, ask yourself: Is this just an eyesore, or has it become trippage? With the right knowledge and tools, you’ll be able to handle both and keep your clients safe and satisfied
