The Best Garage Flooring: 6 Garage Flooring Ideas
In 2021, it’s time to turn your garage from a boring, outdated storage room to a stylish, envy-inducing dream garage. Discover exciting, new garage flooring ideas to revamp your favorite room in the house.
Of course, there’s a lot to do if you want to create your dream garage. But I always recommend starting with the floor. It’s the foundation for your whole garage, and chances are, you’ll want to choose the rest of your decor to match.
Choosing your garage floor is a big decision, one you only want to make once. Fortunately, we’re here to help. This guide will walk you through the best flooring options for your garage, so you can pick something functional and eye-catching that will still be 100% in style years from now.
Of course, there’s a lot to do if you want to create your dream garage. But I always recommend starting with the floor. It’s the foundation for your whole garage, and chances are, you’ll want to choose the rest of your decor to match.
Choosing your garage floor is a big decision, one you only want to make once. Fortunately, we’re here to help. This guide will walk you through the best flooring options for your garage, so you can pick something functional and eye-catching that will still be 100% in style years from now.
How to Choose the Best Garage Flooring
This is where people tend to get overwhelmed. Often, we hear “Can you just tell me what to buy?”
Actually, yes. Yes, I can.
The main things you want to look for are durability, loudness (more on this soon), look, cost, maintenance, and installation. It’s up to you to determine the priority for each of these. Maybe you don’t care how loud your floor tiles are. Or, maybe the cost isn’t a factor for you. Every garage is different, so let’s dive a little deeper and discover what’s best for you.
Actually, yes. Yes, I can.
The main things you want to look for are durability, loudness (more on this soon), look, cost, maintenance, and installation. It’s up to you to determine the priority for each of these. Maybe you don’t care how loud your floor tiles are. Or, maybe the cost isn’t a factor for you. Every garage is different, so let’s dive a little deeper and discover what’s best for you.
Durability
I mean, I think this is a deal-breaker for just about everyone. There’s nothing worse than getting your garage just the way you want it and having your floor fall apart right underneath your feet.
In a shocking discovery: cars are heavy! So are tools. And oil, along with other automotive fluids, can be tough on your floor. You need a brawny, durable floor that will stay sharp and intact through any amount of abuse.
Loudness
This one’s more of a personal preference. The truth is, traditional plastic garage tiles are a little noisy when you walk on them. There are some tips and tricks for reducing this (like underlayment – it’s the best!), but they will never sound as smooth and quiet as walking over a garage roll.
Even something like epoxy has a certain degree of loudness. When you drop tools on a harder surface, they make a lot of noise. The softer the flooring material, the quieter your floor. Simple as that.
Look
I mean, let’s be honest; you want your garage to look sharp. Although functionality is important, you get garage flooring because you want your garage to look awesome.
Most garage flooring options come in diamond, coin, smooth, or vented patterns. And that’s just the beginning! If you choose tiles, you can do all sorts of fun patterns with your layout – mix and match colors, create that classic checkered look, or get crazy with full-on designs, like this Super Mario one.
Of course, epoxy is a whole other story, creating more of a speckled look. If you hire a pro, there’s a ton you can do with epoxy. However, it does require a bit more skill to get more than a basic wash, which, to be fair, still looks great!
Cost
Regardless of your budget, there is a garage flooring option for you. I promise.
You can cover a two-car garage in anything from approximately $400 to $6,000+. There are a lot of variables here, including durability, brand, look, etc. But, seriously, you can start right around $400, which is super doable.
Maintenance
Nobody wants to spend more time than is necessary to clean their garage floor. Check out how easy/difficult your floor is to clean and if it requires any special cleaners, tricks, etc. If you love it and you don’t mind giving it a little extra TLC, then by all means! Otherwise, you may want to go with an equally sleek, less needy option.
Installation
A few things to think about:
- Are you installing the floor yourself? If so, how handy are you?
- Do you have room in your budget to hire an installer?
- Do you plan on keeping this floor here for a long time or do you want it to travel with you when you leave?
Best Garage Floor Tiles
Okay, so now that you know what to look for, let’s get to the real thing you’ve been waiting for…
What are the best garage flooring ideas in 2021?
We’ve got a few favorites that always get rave reviews in lots of different types and styles. So there’s a little something for everyone.
What are the best garage flooring ideas in 2021?
We’ve got a few favorites that always get rave reviews in lots of different types and styles. So there’s a little something for everyone.
Nitro Garage Tiles
Nitro Tiles are one of the most popular garage floor tiles on the market. They’re tough and durable, ready to take on even the harshest garage conditions. Beyond the garage, use them for dealerships, workshops, trade shows, and more.
For the most popular looks and patterns, go with the diamond tiles and lay them in a classic checkerboard pattern.
“I purchase the garage flooring in red, blue, and gray. It took a little over three hours. Just a quick note to say how pleased I am with the product. Easy to install with the end product absolutely beautiful. I will definitely be telling everyone how pleased I am.” – Richard from FL
For the most popular looks and patterns, go with the diamond tiles and lay them in a classic checkerboard pattern.
What People Are Saying
“Very easy to install, did it by myself in about four hours for a two-car garage. I would recommend this before putting down stuff like vinyl. This tile is very durable. I like how easy it is to install just snaps into place with each other. Love it.” – Joe from LA
“I purchase the garage flooring in red, blue, and gray. It took a little over three hours. Just a quick note to say how pleased I am with the product. Easy to install with the end product absolutely beautiful. I will definitely be telling everyone how pleased I am.” – Richard from FL
How Nitro Tiles Measure Up
Cost: 2/5 $$$$$
1 - least expensive to 5 - most expensive
Nitro Tiles are the most affordable garage tiles on the market. You won’t find garage flooring for a better price.
Durability: 4/5
1 - least durable to 5 - most durable
These are the most durable hard plastic garage tiles on the market. Vinyl tiles and rolls typically hold up better than hard tiles, but these bad boys do an excellent job holding up to cars, tools, and more.
Sound: 4/5
1 - quietest to 5 - loudest
Hard plastic tiles will always be louder than your other garage flooring options. If sound is a big issue for you, you can add an underlayment, but flex tiles or garage floor rolls will be your best bet if you want a really quiet floor.
Installation: 3/5
1 - least difficult to 5 - most difficult
Easy peasy. You can 100% DIY. They just take a little more time than a couple of other options.
Cleaning Difficulty: 3/5
1 - least difficult to 5 - most difficult
The occasional sweeping and damp mop with gentle cleaning solution and you’re good to go.
Pros of Nitro Tiles
- Cost
- Durability
- Maintenance
- 3-year warranty
Cons of Nitro Tiles
- Sound
- Fewer color options
Coin Flex Tiles
Okay, so we all want that sleek, professional garage look. But many people are hesitant to go with a garage tile to achieve the classic checkerboard look or other patterns because they’ve heard about the sound you get with hard plastic tiles. I’m not gonna lie; hard plastic tiles are noisier.
But soft PVC garage tiles are quiet as a mouse! Sharp looks without the sharp sounds. A win, win if you ask me.
Beyond the garage, use these babies for basements, showrooms, trade shows, and, yes, even kitchens! For the most popular look, go for the classic checkerboard – it will always be in style.
“I have put garage tiles in three garages so far in my life and this one might be my favorite. For the past two garages I did I used plastic tiles, which are great. I always liked the plastic tiles since you can’t see the interlocks and they look great. This time I wanted to try the vinyl since I heard they are quieter. Well, they weren’t lying, these tiles feel almost like a rubber floor and don’t ever have that clicky sound like the plastic tiles sometimes have if your subfloor is uneven. I think these tiles might also be easier to clean since it seems impossible for dirt to get in the cracks. I am very happy with my purchase.” – Jim from WA
But soft PVC garage tiles are quiet as a mouse! Sharp looks without the sharp sounds. A win, win if you ask me.
Beyond the garage, use these babies for basements, showrooms, trade shows, and, yes, even kitchens! For the most popular look, go for the classic checkerboard – it will always be in style.
What People Are Saying
“These tiles are extremely durable, feel great to walk on, and look amazing. I will be spending more time than I should in my garage.” – Craig from IL
“I have put garage tiles in three garages so far in my life and this one might be my favorite. For the past two garages I did I used plastic tiles, which are great. I always liked the plastic tiles since you can’t see the interlocks and they look great. This time I wanted to try the vinyl since I heard they are quieter. Well, they weren’t lying, these tiles feel almost like a rubber floor and don’t ever have that clicky sound like the plastic tiles sometimes have if your subfloor is uneven. I think these tiles might also be easier to clean since it seems impossible for dirt to get in the cracks. I am very happy with my purchase.” – Jim from WA
How Coin Flex Tiles Measure Up
Cost: 3/5 $$$$$
1 - least expensive to 5 - most expensive
Coin Flex Tiles are the most affordable PVC garage tiles on the market. They are middle-of-the-road price-wise, but it’s a great deal for the quality.
Durability: 5/5
1 - least durable to 5 - most durable
I think the 15-year warranty speaks for itself.
Sound: 1/5
1 - quietest to 5 - loudest
They’re even quieter than most in-home floors.
Installation: 1/5
1 - least difficult to 5 - most difficult
These tiles are the easiest to install of any garage tile on the market. Snap the locks together and go. Ain’t nobody got time for complicated.
Cleaning Difficulty: 3/5
1 - least difficult to 5 - most difficult
The occasional sweeping and damp mop with gentle cleaning solution and you’re good to go.
Pros of Coin Flex Tiles
- Durability
- Sound
- Versatility
- Piece of cake installation
- 15-year warranty
Cons of Coin Flex Tiles
- A little more expensive than hard plastic tiles
- Occasional slight color variance between batches
Grid-Loc Garage Tiles
These American-made hard plastic garage tiles are engineered to withstand the heat, tools, chemicals, oil, and more that come from even the grungiest garage. They’ve been around for the long haul and we still think they make our list of the top 5 garage tiles on the market.
Beyond the garage, Grid-Loc Tiles are versatile enough for storage sheds, trade shows, dealerships, and more. They are popular for their large color selection and variety of patterns.
“Installation was a snap. The Diamond Grid-Loc tiles seem indestructable. Several spills wiped right off. We changed our design and it was easy to remove and reinstall tiles in the center of the garage floor. ” – Ken from TX
Beyond the garage, Grid-Loc Tiles are versatile enough for storage sheds, trade shows, dealerships, and more. They are popular for their large color selection and variety of patterns.
What People Are Saying
“Garage looks outstanding! Everything came perfectly. Installation was pretty easy. When cutting tile, first tried a box cutting blade but it was too arduous. The jigsaw worked great and cut my time exponentially. Stomping on the tile to join them worked most effectively. Having a rubber mallet handy proved beneficial for the edges. These tiles are durable but not soft. You will hear the flexing of the tiles when walking on them but since they’ll be in the garage it’s an easy trade-off. Would highly recommend.” – Poolster from NY
“Installation was a snap. The Diamond Grid-Loc tiles seem indestructable. Several spills wiped right off. We changed our design and it was easy to remove and reinstall tiles in the center of the garage floor. ” – Ken from TX
How Grid-Loc Tiles Measure Up
Cost: 3/5 $$$$$
1 - least expensive to 5 - most expensive
These are mid-range. The Nitro Tiles are less expensive, but these will give you more color options if you prefer that.
Durability: 3/5
1 - least durable to 5 - most durable
Grid-Loc Tiles are tough and sturdy, lasting for years. With a lot of wear and tear, however, you will start to see scratches and imperfections.
Sound: 4/5
1 - quietest to 5 - loudest
Hard plastic tiles will always be louder than your other garage flooring options. If sound is a big issue for you, you can add an underlayment, but flex tiles or garage floor rolls will be your best bet if you want a really quiet floor.
Installation: 3/5
1 - least difficult to 5 - most difficult
An easy, straightforward loop system. Any Average Joe can do it themselves.
Cleaning Difficulty: 3/5
1 - least difficult to 5 - most difficult
The occasional sweeping and damp mop with gentle cleaning solution and you’re good to go.
Pros of Grid-Loc Tiles
- American-made
- Large color selection
- Versatility
- 12-year warranty
Cons of Grid-Loc Tiles
- Sound
- Pricier than Nitro Tiles (their competitor hard plastic tile)
Ribtrax by SwissTrax Garage Tiles
Swisstrax is famous for its Ribtrax vented garage tile line. These tiles are extra-large and made right here in the USA. At 3/4″ thick, Ribtrax tiles are the toughest garage floor tiles on the market.
Beyond the garage, use them for boats, docks, around the pool, and pretty much anywhere with a lot of water. The vents allow water to easily flow through with no issues or mess.
Ribtrax tiles are also popular for their huge color selection. Like, ridiculously huge. With 19 different options, if you want it, they’ve got it.
“I ordered the two colors I love and when they arrived my husband and I started snapping them together. It was amazingly simple and fast. After a few hours, we had a classy looking garage. We are extremely happy with our “new looking” garage. And the best thing is should we ever decide to move again, or even simply want a different pattern, these tiles can easily be stacked in a box and carried to a new home to be used again!” – Mark from FL
Beyond the garage, use them for boats, docks, around the pool, and pretty much anywhere with a lot of water. The vents allow water to easily flow through with no issues or mess.
Ribtrax tiles are also popular for their huge color selection. Like, ridiculously huge. With 19 different options, if you want it, they’ve got it.
What People Are Saying
“I installed the snap together about as fast as you can unload the shipping box and it is beautiful. Highly recommended all the way around!” – RxBow from PA
“I ordered the two colors I love and when they arrived my husband and I started snapping them together. It was amazingly simple and fast. After a few hours, we had a classy looking garage. We are extremely happy with our “new looking” garage. And the best thing is should we ever decide to move again, or even simply want a different pattern, these tiles can easily be stacked in a box and carried to a new home to be used again!” – Mark from FL
How Ribtrax Tiles Measure Up
Cost: 4/5 $$$$$
1 - least expensive to 5 - most expensive
With the big brand name, these ultra-thick tiles do come at a higher price point.
Durability: 4/5
1 - least durable to 5 - most durable
These babies come with an impressive 15-year warranty. They’re sticking around for the long haul.
Sound: 2/5
1 - quietest to 5 - loudest
While still louder than PVC, the vented tiles are significantly quieter than other hard plastic tiles.
Installation: 3/5
1 - least difficult to 5 - most difficult
We’ve received so many comments on how easy they are to install. Tiles do take a bit of time, but any novice could easily take on this project.
Cleaning Difficulty: 1/5
1 - least difficult to 5 - most difficult
This is one of the best parts! Because of the vent system, you can just hose ’em down every once in a while. Literally does not get any easier than that.
Pros of Ribtrax Tiles
- American-made
- Durability
- Sharp look and colors
- Great for water
- 15-year warranty
Cons of Ribtrax Tiles
- Price
Smooth Flex Garage Tiles
Now for something a little different. Smooth Flex Tiles don’t look like any other garage floor tile on the market. They are, well, smooth, for one! Instead of diamond or coin patterns, you get a gorgeous, smooth leather look. Their interlocking system is hidden, giving you a flawless, cohesive floor.
Homeowners love how the Smooth Flex Tiles provide versatility. Yes, they’re garage tiles, but, beyond the garage, they look great in laundry rooms, basements, offices, and more.
Looking for style? The classic checkerboard look always looks sharp.
“This was the most amazing look when completed. It was fast AND easy to install and looks GREAT! There was no way we could have achieved this look with any other tile. ” – Chris from VA
Homeowners love how the Smooth Flex Tiles provide versatility. Yes, they’re garage tiles, but, beyond the garage, they look great in laundry rooms, basements, offices, and more.
Looking for style? The classic checkerboard look always looks sharp.
What People Are Saying
“I installed the smooth tiles in my basement laundry room area over a cement floor. It is a wonderful product. The floor looks great and it is good to walk on. The contractor who installed it for me said it was great to work with and he will recommend it to other customers. Very satisfied.” – Amanda from NY
“This was the most amazing look when completed. It was fast AND easy to install and looks GREAT! There was no way we could have achieved this look with any other tile. ” – Chris from VA
How Smooth Flex Tiles Measure Up
Cost: 4/5 $$$$$
1 - least expensive to 5 - most expensive
The striking, professional leather look does come at a higher price point. However, these are pretty affordable compared to similar tiles.
Durability: 5/5
1 - least durable to 5 - most durable
PVC is known for its durability and longevity. Also, they come with an insanely awesome 25-year warranty – that’s sayin’ something!
Sound: 1/5
1 - quietest to 5 - loudest
Vinyl is always a quiet flooring option, especially PVC compared to other garage flooring options.
Installation: 3/5
1 - least difficult to 5 - most difficult
An easy installation, accessible for even a home improvement novice.
Cleaning Difficulty: 3/5
1 - least difficult to 5 - most difficult
You’ll just need to keep up with the standard sweeping and occasionally mopping with a mild cleaning solution.
Pros of Smooth Flex Tiles
- Gorgeous leather look
- Hidden interlock design
- American-made
- Anti-fatigue technologies
- Chemical-resistant
- 25-year warranty
Cons of Smooth Flex Tiles
- Occasional color variance between batches
- Price
Best Garage Flooring Rolls
OIf garage floor tiles aren’t your thing, you can still get that sleek, professional garage look on a lower budget and with even easier installation by choosing a garage floor roll.
What is the best garage flooring roll?
Let’s talk about it!
What is the best garage flooring roll?
Let’s talk about it!
Nitro Garage Floor Rolls
These premium vinyl garage flooring rolls have it all: sharp looks, easy installation and maintenance, and superb durability. It’s no wonder they are the number 1 garage flooring roll on the market.
Beyond the garage, use these stylish coin- and diamond-patterned rolls in workshops, storage sheds, industrial settings, and more.
“Although only as thick as a nickel, this product is tough and very durable. I ordered a 10′ x 7′ mat. I’m a 66-year-old woman and easily rolled out the 65 lb. mat and was able to drag it into place into my golf cart garage. The former home owner’s cart battery acid had eaten dinner plate-sized holes into the garage floor. After getting the concrete flushed and repaired, this mat made the perfect finish. I like how easy it is to sweep and keep clean. Online ordering and delivery were quick and easy. This mat is a terrific value at a great price.” – Janet from CA
Beyond the garage, use these stylish coin- and diamond-patterned rolls in workshops, storage sheds, industrial settings, and more.
What People Are Saying
“The flooring turned out really great and it is the “wow” factor when I show my garage to my friends. I installed it myself and am very proud of it.” – Gary from PA
“Although only as thick as a nickel, this product is tough and very durable. I ordered a 10′ x 7′ mat. I’m a 66-year-old woman and easily rolled out the 65 lb. mat and was able to drag it into place into my golf cart garage. The former home owner’s cart battery acid had eaten dinner plate-sized holes into the garage floor. After getting the concrete flushed and repaired, this mat made the perfect finish. I like how easy it is to sweep and keep clean. Online ordering and delivery were quick and easy. This mat is a terrific value at a great price.” – Janet from CA
How Nitro Rolls Measure Up
Cost: 1/5 $$$$$
1 - least expensive to 5 - most expensive
Nitro Rolls are the least expensive option on this list – they’re a true bargain for garage flooring.
Durability: 5/5
1 - least durable to 5 - most durable
There’s a reason these babies come with a 7-year warranty. They are virtually indestructible, designed to hold up to cars, tools, and more.
Sound: 1/5
1 - quietest to 5 - loudest
Garage rolls are the quietest garage flooring option there is and these Nitro Rolls don’t disappoint.
Installation: 1/5
1 - least difficult to 5 - most difficult
Nitro Rolls are so easy to install, a child could do it. For real. They are a bit heavy/bulky, and you may need to do a little cutting, but it is a very short DIY project.
Cleaning Difficulty: 1/5
1 - least difficult to 5 - most difficult
The occasional sweeping and damp mop with gentle cleaning solution is all it takes.
Pros of Nitro Rolls
- Quiet underfoot
- Easy installation
- Professional look
- Affordable
- 7-year warranty (the longest garage flooring roll warranty on the market!)
Cons of Nitro Rolls
- Patterns on each roll may not always align perfectly with the adjoining roll
Conclusion
Ready to get started? Order samples of your favorite garage flooring today!
