Is Using Tile On A Garage Floor A Good Idea?

If you're interested in upgrading your garage floor but want to consider something other than concrete, then you might be wondering if using tile is a good idea. The answer? Absolutely! Indeed, while you might think of tiles as something that's best for your kitchen backsplash or shower walls, they can also be the ideal material for your garage floor. Granted, you need to be sure to use the right kind of tile. Fortunately, you have plenty of great options. For instance, you could opt for porcelain, ceramic, vinyl composition, polypropylene plastic, or PVC tiles. They can be fully secured with a permanent adhesive or interlocked; there are even peel-and-stick options. 

Aesthetically, these various types of tiles can have a gorgeous sheen and come in a wide range of sizes and colors as well as different textures, which means that you can make choices that truly complement the space. Of course, being nice to look at is also an added bonus. However, it's imperative to choose something that can withstand various elements it may be exposed to in the garage.

Tiles may sound delicate and make you wary. However, some options are actually quite strong and can stand up to the kind of discipline you might put them through in your garage. For instance, porcelain is stronger than marble and granite, thanks to the fact that it's rather thick and receives additional support from the concrete garage floor. This means you won't have to worry about it easily cracking. If a tile does break, you can simply pull it up and put down a new one instead of repairing the entire floor. Beyond porcelain tiles, other excellent options include those made of polypropylene plastic, which is also thick, as well as PVC tiles that are thinner but more flexible. The latter can be installed tightly, meaning that liquids and moisture won't be able to seep through. Vinyl composition tiles will also prevent spills from causing problems. However, you will want to add acrylic wax to keep them from being too slippery.

The nature of these various tiles is resistant to UV rays, certain chemicals, and temperature changes. So they won't lose their sheen or fade like other materials. Beyond that, these tiles aren't as susceptible to stains because they're not porous and won't soak up spills. This protective aspect also keeps dirt on the upper layer, making it easy to clean away. By keeping your tiles tidy, they'll look better and last longer.

Although some tiles are ideal for a garage floor, that doesn't mean that you can grab just anything and throw it down. Unlike porcelain and plastic, tiles made of natural stone are porous and will soak up anything that might leak or spill on them. In turn, they can end up stained with grease, oil, brake fluid, anti-freeze, paint, and general grime, which can make their way deep into the tiles. For this reason, you want to stay away from options made of marble, quartz, and other popular types of stone.

Wood tiles are another option made of a natural material that can be an iffy option. If you want to use your garage as a space to indulge your (non-messy) hobbies or hang out, then wood can be a lovely addition. However, if you intend to use your garage as a workshop or parking space, the porous wood may stain, fade, and crack. If you're determined to get the look of stone or wood tiles in your garage, porcelain, ceramic, plastic, and vinyl products that mimic their appearance are available.