Floor tile options/opinions needed

[grabeb]

I'm just finishing up my garage build and looking for flooring options. Original thought was an epoxy of sorts, I've scrapped that idea I believe and now I'm leaning towards just sealing the concrete so it doesn't stain, but I know that's pretty final on the finish of the concrete end.

Part of the reason for the change is my 4 post lift just got installed and I'm not moving it out and don't want to epoxy in stages. I.e. moving the lift multiple times to apply a finish. With the sealer I don't think that'll be an issue.

After several months of walking on the hard concrete I'm now thinking it might be worth it to put something easier on the knees/legs/feet. Had knee surgery in my early 20s, I'm now nearing the 50 mark and realizing I'm not 20 any longer. Both parents have had knee replacements, my mom needing to badly get the 2nd knee replaced. Point is I'm thinking a few grand for a softer floor might be a worthwhile investment. Plus wouldn't it help insulate and save on heating costs?

So what would you guys recommend? I've been seeing the racedeck advertised a lot. It appears they send out samples, so I'll look into that. I know lots of products work as antifatigue mats, but not sure which ones can support the lift and handle car traffic as well.

Looking for several options to fit these needs. Just want something to help absorb the concrete hardness.

 

[Garage Flooring]

First understand that products like RaceDeck (which we sell) TrueLock HDXT etc are rigid tiles and not 'soft'. PVC tiles are softer but can stain from tires unless you go black. We do offer samples. Have a look around and let me know what you want to see

 

[frankd]

Personally, I'd just stick with some anti-fatigue matts in your work area. I have the rigid tiles (GarageDeck) and I like them but I only installed them because the concrete floor was in terrible shape. My options were to either hide the ugly floor under tile, or hire a concrete company/contractor to redo the entire garage floor.
The tiles are not great if you're using your garage as an actual workshop where you'll spill fluids, etc. The fluid will get in the seams and under the tile and it'll be a huge pain in the *** to clean. I also dont think that kind of floor will be any softer on your knees. At least that's been my experience.
Also, if you're doing any sort of grinding or welding... its going to potentially melt/damage the tile.
I know alot of people go with those free flow tiles. They look really cook but I never quite understood the purpose of them aside from aesthetics.

 

[Armorpoxy]

Take a look at our www.Supratile.com solid PVC tiles.

 

[grabeb]

Personally, I'd just stick with some anti-fatigue matts in your work area. I have the rigid tiles (GarageDeck) and I like them but I only installed them because the concrete floor was in terrible shape. My options were to either hide the ugly floor under tile, or hire a concrete company/contractor to redo the entire garage floor.
The tiles are not great if you're using your garage as an actual workshop where you'll spill fluids, etc. The fluid will get in the seams and under the tile and it'll be a huge pain in the *** to clean. I also dont think that kind of floor will be any softer on your knees. At least that's been my experience.
Also, if you're doing any sort of grinding or welding... its going to potentially melt/damage the tile.
I know alot of people go with those free flow tiles. They look really cook but I never quite understood the purpose of them aside from aesthetics.

Thanks. I know they might not be as easy on joints as the anti-fatigue mats, but can't be as hard as concrete....can they? I do see that GarageDeck sells an anti-fatigue 'pad' that goes under selected tiles to provide some cushion.

The welding/grinding is a good point to consider. Hmmm....

 

[grabeb]

First understand that products like RaceDeck (which we sell) TrueLock HDXT etc are rigid tiles and not 'soft'. PVC tiles are softer but can stain from tires unless you go black. We do offer samples. Have a look around and let me know what you want to see

I'll take a look and see. Thanks

 

[grabeb]

Take a look at our www.Supratile.com solid PVC tiles.

Those look great, how do I get a sample and or price?

 

[Armorpoxy]

Please contact our office at below.

 

[grabeb]

I've been mulling over everything posted here, while I move forward trying to get my final inspection complete. I will likely call some of the places above that said to call, but I'm trying to decide my exact needs before I do this.

It was mentioned above a lot of the options, I originally questioned, aren't good if using it as an actual shop. I do have an old 1960 Suburban that I need to replace some patch panels on, I am planning a rat rod build as well, so there will definitely be welding/grinding going on at times. Won't be everyday and might even be months between, so laying something down or pulling up isn't out of question maybe. I also have a 4 post lift, so whatever goes down will have to be able to support that, be cut around or go between the posts.

That area is about 12-13' wide x 32' (maybe 35' in future) deep. Then the other section is where I'll do most of my woodworking projects, which will see the highest use most likely. Not saying I wouldn't weld or grind something in this area, but I'm trying to separate out to some extent the uses.

My knees are a HUGE concern as I see the writing on that wall. I am trying to think of fairly modular ideas.

I'm thinking maybe some roll out parking mats that could be moved if needed when doing welding/grinding/etc, to keep them in decent shape. Then around the walking paths and work benches, maybe something click together for antifatigue/anti-slip when it rains/snows and water comes into the garage. Haven't looking much into welding blankets, but maybe those would be a quick solution to throw on ground if doing a quick repair and not wanting to move my flooring?

Any feedback is appreciated. I won't and can't move too forward on this until I get the inspections all out of way as I'm trying to limit what might be asked to be moved when they come to do the final!

 

[Garage Flooring]

I've been mulling over everything posted here, while I move forward trying to get my final inspection complete. I will likely call some of the places above that said to call, but I'm trying to decide my exact needs before I do this.

It was mentioned above a lot of the options, I originally questioned, aren't good if using it as an actual shop. I do have an old 1960 Suburban that I need to replace some patch panels on, I am planning a rat rod build as well, so there will definitely be welding/grinding going on at times. Won't be everyday and might even be months between, so laying something down or pulling up isn't out of question maybe. I also have a 4 post lift, so whatever goes down will have to be able to support that, be cut around or go between the posts.

That area is about 12-13' wide x 32' (maybe 35' in future) deep. Then the other section is where I'll do most of my woodworking projects, which will see the highest use most likely. Not saying I wouldn't weld or grind something in this area, but I'm trying to separate out to some extent the uses.

My knees are a HUGE concern as I see the writing on that wall. I am trying to think of fairly modular ideas.

I'm thinking maybe some roll out parking mats that could be moved if needed when doing welding/grinding/etc, to keep them in decent shape. Then around the walking paths and work benches, maybe something click together for antifatigue/anti-slip when it rains/snows and water comes into the garage. Haven't looking much into welding blankets, but maybe those would be a quick solution to throw on ground if doing a quick repair and not wanting to move my flooring?

Any feedback is appreciated. I won't and can't move too forward on this until I get the inspections all out of way as I'm trying to limit what might be asked to be moved when they come to do the final!

Welding blankets are suggested for welding.

I personally use larger exercise mats in my garage over tile and they provide plenty of cushion, but my application is often different. I would suggest looking at something like a wearwell anti-fatigue mat and move it to where your knees are