We don't know what the OP has for a surface. Is it concrete? Wood? Brick? Tile?
A photo would be very helpful here.
Concrete would best covered with a sealant. There's plenty of threads here on various covering options, but all result in a sealed surface that is easy to clean, doesn't generate dust, and usually adds color or decoration to the surface as well. A two car garage can commonly be done for $400 or less.
Wood? I can understand the need to protect this from absorbing contaminants- you know, like *oil*. Varnish, epoxy, or even good stains can help seal the surface. Again, protecting it from being affected by contaminants. Railroad shops would have small squares of wood cut and placed end grain/cut end up as a tiled layer. It seems odd, but was very strong and resistant to damage. If they were damaged, they were readily replaced. But those shops would do the environmentally unfriendly method of using lubricating oils to stain and seal the surface. Those become hazardous waste later if you need to remove them. It can actually devalue the house accordingly.
Tile? No need unless it's a porous clay and those are usually sealed.