Garages are often overlooked when it comes to furniture and design, but a quality floor can make all the difference. Not only can it improve the overall look of a garage, but it can also ensure greater functionality, comfort and protection.
Here are some reasons why it is important to choose an adequate floor for your garage.
Protection of the existing surface: if the garage already has an unfinished concrete floor, it may be worth adding a protective coating to prevent damage, stains, scratches or cracks. A floor specifically designed for garages can help protect your existing floor and make it last longer.
Easier cleaning and maintenance: a good garage floor can make cleaning and maintenance of the area easier and quicker. Some materials can be cleaned simply with a cloth and a specific cleaner. In addition, an adequate garage surface protects the substrate against dust and dirt, keeping the entire environment cleaner.
Safety: a garage floor can improve the safety of the area. For example, a non-slip solution can reduce the risk of falls and accidents. A garage floor can also be designed to absorb shocks, reducing the risk of floor damage.
Versatility: you can choose a garage floor that is suitable for your needs and the activities taking place in your garage, if any. For example, if you use your garage as a gym or work area, you can opt for a custom solution. If, on the other hand, you use the garage mainly for parking your car, a generic concrete floor may be sufficient.
There are several garage flooring solutions to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is an overview of the most common options.
Concrete: concrete is the most common choice for garage floors. It is durable, stain resistant and easy to clean. Furthermore, concrete can be treated with resin-based coatings to make it more resistant to wear, stains, and water.
Vinyl tiles: vinyl tiles are easy to install and come in many different textures and colours. They are also very durable and easy to clean. However, they can be slippery when wet and may need to be replaced if broken or damaged.
Ceramic tiles: ceramic tiles are durable, stain resistant, and come in many shapes and colours. They are rather expensive, though, and can be slippery when wet.
Hardwood floors: a hardwood floor can give your garage a warm look. But in addition to being expensive, wood requires more maintenance than other options. Wood can also be damaged by water, humidity and chemicals that are often used in garages.
Rubber floors: rubber floors are strong, durable and come in different textures and colours. They are also easy to clean and can be installed quickly, but they can be slippery when wet, too.
Garage floor maintenance
Following few guidelines can help you keep your floor in good condition and prevent permanent damage or stains.
Regular cleaning: cleaning the floor regularly is essential to avoid the build-up of dirt, dust and stains. Use a vacuum cleaner or a broom to remove dust and dirt, then use a specific cleaning product for the type of floor you chose.
Preventing stains: to avoid permanent stains on your floor, it’s important to clean up any spilled substance immediately. For example, if you spill oil on your garage area, wipe it off right away with a cloth or towel.
Floor protection: use floor mats to protect the floor from bumps or scratches caused by tools, car wheels or other heavy objects.
Floor sealing: if your garage floor is unfinished concrete, we recommend a sealed finish to prevent the absorption of substances that could cause permanent stains or damage.
Periodic inspection: examine the floor regularly for damage or cracks that may need repairing.
Contact us to learn about all Ideal Work options available for the garage.