Dec 5,2023
Garages are always the most boring, dull, and colorless spaces in any house. Almost all garages have gray cement floors and are not the places where you would like to stay for an extended period, even if you have to fix your vehicle. But not anymore. With interlocking garage floor tiles, you can easily give your garage an aesthetic appeal, making it a welcoming space. Interlocking garage floor tiles are the hottest-selling product in the market right now. Not only are they available in numerous color and design options, but they can be assembled effortlessly and quickly as each tile interlocks together to make a whole floor, unlike traditional floor tiles that need several days of tedious labor and cost. You can transform your garage into a sanctuary or showroom using these interlocking tiles.
If you think that these kinds of tiles will be fragile, then you are mistaken. They are waterproof and chemical resistant, so if you think they cannot support weight or break easily, you are wrong.
Interlocking tiles come in two versions based on the material and interlocking system. PVC tiles have puzzle-shaped sides that fit into the other tiles like a jigsaw puzzle. The other interlocking tiles are not PVC hard plastic or vinyl ones. They do not have puzzle-shaped sides and lock together in place since they have a hard, raised plastic side that connects together.
The great thing about interlocking tiles is that they can be connected together easily by one person without any manual labor. Here, we will give you a stepwise manual on how to install floor tile on concrete and give your garage a classy look and feel.
Step 1: Start your tile laying task from the square corner of the garage. The first sequence of tiles should be laid with the loop side on the outside. It is useful to imagine the loop sides as arrows that point outwards to denote the direction of expansion of the floor.
Step 2: The next series of tiles should be placed on top of the loop sides so that the loops should point in the same direction. After the second sequence of tiles has been laid, step on the seam with your foot to press the overlapping loop sides together. You will hear a distinct click or snap, and the tile will lock into place. Although interlocking tiles are designed as a DIY project for one person, it is better to have two people to save time. This way, the task can be divided, and one person can lay the tiles while the other steps on them to fix them in place. Repeat the process until tiles cover the floor area completely.
Step 3: In cases where the wall-to-wall floor covering where full tiles cannot be laid, you will need to cut the tile in half. There are several ways to do this. One way is to slice the tile with a saw. The direction of the tile should face in the same direction. Another method to cut the tile is by using a sharp knife. Cutting the tile completely with a knife is not possible, so make the cut and fold the tile over a table edge to snap it. Make the cut in such a way that no stretch marks occur at the surface of the tile when it is being bent.
Like plastic tiles, the fitting and installation of PVC tile is similar. Most of these tiles have jigsaw-shaped sides. Some tiles have a straight-edged seam with a jigsaw seam hidden below it. These soft tiles are widely used to make gym floors that absorb the shock of dropping heavy objects. If your garage is large enough, you can make a PVC tile floor and place gym equipment for a home gym.
These tiles are easy to assemble as they fit like puzzle pieces. Below, we have outlined stepwise how to complete this snap-together garage flooring.
Step 1: Begin by the corner of the room with the interlocks facing outwards.
Step 2: Next, you should push the straight-sided edge of the tile over the interlocking side (made of a jigsaw edge) till the tiles form an even surface. Unlike plastic or vinyl tiles, you don't need to press the tiles with your foot, as pressing them with your hand can make them fit.
Step 3: These tiles are sturdy enough to park the car on the floor. But the tiles can become stained with leaking oil from cars, so the tiles should be sealed properly.
Interlocking tiles have more significant benefits over traditional tiles for various reasons.
Covering your floor with these tiles does not require labor or someone experienced in masonry. Even an ordinary person can make up the tiles swiftly.
When it comes to the range of garage floor tile designs, the interlocking tiles offer innovative design options that can match any traditional tile design. Moreover, they come in various materials, so they can be adapted to suit any space and style.
These tiles have a bendable rubber texture. Such tiles provide a non-slip surface that can be particularly great for gym floors. Moreover, they are resistant to bacteria and mildew.
Another amazing alternative to tile material that can imitate a polished, shiny surface is vinyl. VCT or vinyl composite tiles can make your garage floor look smooth and classy, and there are many designs and colors to choose from. You can make your garage a sophisticated place with such flooring. Unlike conventional tiles, these tiles are also quite stain-resistant since they are made of plastic.
The final choice in our selection is porcelain tile, known for its exceptional density and impressive durability. Porcelain delivers remarkable resilience with a compressive strength exceeding 20,000 lbs. per square inch. Its high-density composition leads to a moisture absorbency rate of less than 0.5%, rendering it virtually impermeable to water and highly resistant to staining, even when exposed to substances like road salts, oils, and automotive fluids.
When correctly installed, porcelain tile garage flooring proves highly resistant to scratches, breakage, and chipping. Moreover, it stands out as one of the most convenient tile options in terms of cleaning and maintenance.
When it comes to the disadvantages of modular tiles, the list is not long. The only downside of these tiles is that they can be more costly than traditional tiles. Although it depends on the material, porcelain tiles are high-end and can weigh heavy on the pocket.
While there's an array of garage floor tile options available, it's undeniable that any choice will significantly enhance your garage's look. To start, consider setting your budget and identifying your top priorities.
For a hassle-free installation, nothing beats interlocking tiles. When it comes to durability and resisting stains, porcelain tiles reign supreme, with interlocking tiles following closely.
If budget-friendliness is key, VCT or self-adhesive tiles could be your most affordable options with a bit of bargain hunting. Just remember, installing them might require some basic DIY skills.
Regardless of the garage flooring tile you opt for, it can bring personality, style, sophistication, and even a touch of attitude based on your design.
Yes, interlocking garage floor tiles are designed for easy DIY installation. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.
Clean the tiles with a mild detergent and water. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.
Some interlocking tiles are suitable for outdoor use, but it's essential to check the manufacturer's recommendations.
While DIY floor preparation is possible, hiring a professional ensures a level surface and proper conditions for installation.
Yes, interlocking tiles are designed to withstand the weight of heavy vehicles, making them an excellent choice for garage flooring.
