When you need to upgrade your garage flooring but are unsure where to start, follow this BiGDUG Helpful Buying Guide to decide on the best flooring for your situation! Having the right flooring can make all the difference. Develop an understanding of what type is most suitable for your garage. From providing safe and durable surfaces to improving your space’s overall look and functionality, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Different Types of Garage Flooring
There are many types of garage flooring, each providing unique advantages to your workspace. From durable interlocking tiles to easy-to-apply floor paint, and from anti-slip coatings to comfortable anti-fatigue mats, you can find the perfect solution to improve both the safety and practicality of your garage area.
Interlocking Flooring Tiles
Available in many materials such as rubber, vinyl, vented plastic, and PVC, interlocking tiles offer a versatile and customisable flooring solution. They are easy to install with their simple snap-in-place process, making them a popular choice for DIY projects.
Rubber
Rubber interlocking tiles provide great shock absorption and slip resistance, making them ideal for heavy-duty use and fitness uses. Their material allows them to be durable and able to withstand high traffic and heavy loads.
Vinyl
Vinyl interlocking tiles are available in various colours and patterns, providing a stylish and easy-to-clean surface. They are resistant to chemicals and stains, making them suitable for both residential and commercial garages.
Vented
Vented interlocking tiles allow for airflow and drainage, preventing moisture buildup underneath. They are perfect for garages prone to spills or where a dry surface is essential.
PVC
PVC interlocking tiles are highly durable and resistant to impact, chemicals, and temperature changes. They offer a robust and long-lasting flooring solution for industrial and heavy-duty garage applications.
Floor Paint
Floor paint is an affordable and straightforward way to improve the appearance and resistance of your garage floor. It provides a protective layer that resists stains and spills and is available in various colours so you can choose the one that best suits your garage space.
Epoxy Coating
Epoxy coating creates a hard, impact-resistant surface. It has excellent resistance to chemicals, stains, and liquids. It provides a very smooth surface which is easy to clean and maintain. They last many years and are a cost-effective protective flooring solution.
Other Mentionable Flooring Types
Anti-Slip
Anti-slip coatings or mats improve safety by providing additional traction on the garage floor. They are particularly useful in areas prone to wet conditions, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Available as a paint/coating and a common feature within matting – be sure to check out product descriptions for more details!
Anti Fatigue Mats
Anti-fatigue mats are designed to reduce fatigue caused by standing for long periods on hard surfaces. They provide cushioning and support, making them ideal for work areas within the garage where prolonged standing is common.
What is the best flooring to put over concrete in a garage?
A couple of things to consider when choosing what is best to place on concrete flooring in a garage are the specific use of the garage and the desired balance between durability, ease of installation, and cost. Here are some key points to keep in mind: durability, ease of installation, aesthetics, and course, cost.
Interlocking Tiles
Interlocking tiles, available in materials like rubber, vinyl, and PVC, offer an easy-to-install and customisable solution. They are great for DIY enthusiasts and can be replaced individually if damaged. They provide good durability and resistance to stains and chemicals, making them suitable for general garage use.
Epoxy Coating
Epoxy coating provides a hard, durable surface that can withstand heavy loads, chemicals, and abrasion. It’s ideal for garages used as workshops or for frequent vehicle storage. The professional installation ensures a seamless, long-lasting finish, but it comes at a higher cost.
Roll-Out Vinyl
Roll-out vinyl flooring is simple to install and provides a cushioned surface that is resistant to stains and spills. While not as durable as epoxy or tiles, it is a cost-effective option for garages with moderate use. It can be easily cleaned and is available in various patterns and colours.
Should garage floors be light or dark?
Depending on how you use your garage space can help determine which one you’d prefer. If you carry out heavy-duty tasks on a daily basis or have cars parked and being used within the garage, then you may opt for a dark floor to help reduce the visibility of hide skid marks, dirt, and more that your tyres can drag inside. If your garage is primarily used for light work, storage, or as a clean, organised space, a light floor can enhance visibility and make the area feel more spacious and inviting. Ultimately, the choice between light and dark flooring should align with your needs and preferred aesthetics.
How do I prepare my garage floor for new flooring?
1. To prepare your garage for new flooring, first begin by clearing the space of all items; some flooring such as interlocking tiles can be fitted around items but it is much easier to install when clear.
2. Once cleared, ensure the floor is swept clean of all rubbish and any little bits of debris to have the best chance of a smooth finish. It is good practice to double-check just before installing your new flooring any remaining pieces of dirt, dust, moisture, and items to allow a smooth installation.
3. Repair any damages such as cracks, holes, and flaking/chipping flooring. If unsure, consult professional help for best results.
4. Depending on the flooring, you may need to apply primer or other solutions etc – refer to product and manuals if applicable.
5. Install your new flooring!
Can I install garage flooring myself, or do I need a professional?
If you are competent in your DIY experience, you can successfully install garage flooring such as interlocking tiles, roll-out vinyl, or concrete stains/sealers with ease. These options are straightforward to apply and require minimal tools, making them accessible to most DIY enthusiasts. However, for more complex flooring like epoxy coatings, which demand precise preparation and application techniques, seeking professional installation ensures a flawless finish and long-term durability. So consider your skills and competence to help decide whether you are confident enough to install your new garage flooring yourself.
How long does garage flooring last?
All garage flooring is designed to last many, many years. For example, epoxy flooring can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years or more with proper care and maintenance. Interlocking tiles are also durable, typically lasting between 5 to 10 years depending on the quality of the material and usage. Roll-out vinyl flooring averages a lifespan of 3 to 5 years, while concrete stains or sealers can last between 2 to 5 years. These numbers all depend on traffic and attention to maintenance throughout the years so some flooring can last a shorter or longer amount of time.
Is garage flooring resistant to chemicals and spills?
Garage flooring varies in its resistance to chemicals and spills depending on the material chosen. Epoxy coatings are highly resistant, forming a seamless, easy-to-clean surface. For other types of flooring, be sure to check their product descriptions where we highlight whether they are resistant to chemicals and spills.
Best Garage Flooring Covering
With there being many options available, there is not one best flooring type for a garage. What you do and how you use your garage space will largely dictate which type will be best for you.
For example, due to its resistance to chemicals, stains, and impacts, epoxy coatings are ideal for high-traffic areas. Environments where machinery and heavy equipment are used often would benefit greatly from using epoxy flooring. If you are a car enthusiast who works on vehicles regularly, epoxy flooring is perfect for your situation. The challenge with epoxy flooring is the installation process. It is complex and time-consuming, often requiring professional help to ensure proper application and curing.
Interlocking tiles are easy to install and can also be removed as needed. This makes it a solid solution for garages that need a temporary setup for their floor protection – interlocking tiles are suitable for long-term use too! They can be reorganised into new layouts. They are budget-friendly and come in many sizes and materials. Tiles are a very popular solution for garage flooring due to their versatility which makes them suitable for so many applications.
Best Garage Flooring Covering
BiGDUG Essentials Single Garage Interlocking Floor Tile Set Mega Deal
This interlocking floor tile set offers a durable and solid covering for garage floors. Featuring 91 easy-to-install interlocking tiles (available in black or black & grey), 7 entrance ramps, and a free assembly mallet to cover 3×6-metre worth of floor, this deal provides a complete solution to your garage flooring. Enjoy tiles that reduce noise, and vibrations while being resistant to fire, and water, and are wear-resistant.
BiGDUG Essentials Double Garage Vented Interlocking Tile Mega Deal
This is a robust flooring solution with great drainage abilities thanks to its vented design. Designed for a 6×6-metre double garage, this kit includes 225 tiles, available in different colours (black and royal blue), and comes with a free assembly mallet. These high-strength polypropylene copolymer tiles feature a self-draining channelling system, are highly resistant to weather, chemicals, and UV fading, and can support up to 70,000 lbs of rollover weight, ensuring a durable, slip-resistant, and easy-to-maintain garage floor.
BiGDUG Anti-Fatigue Interlocking Floor Tile
Constructed from smooth PVC, these tiles protect floors from daily wear and tear damage. They are anti-slip, fire, chemical, and impact-resistant. When you need durable and safe garage flooring that provides comfort while you work, these anti-fatigue tiles are a great choice that will last many years to come.
Contact Us
Choosing the right garage flooring for your space can do wonders for your work productivity. From providing comfort with anti-fatigue matting to ensuring a sturdy, durable, and easy-to-clean surface with epoxy coatings and vinyl tiles, the perfect flooring can improve both the functionality and the appearance of your garage. As garage experts, we at BiGDUG stock over 200 flooring solutions ready for you at competitive prices – if you need help finding the right one, contact us today and we’ll help you with our 5-star customer service!