Often the last thing on the list when kitting out a garage, floor mats are nonetheless a worthwhile investment. Bought for practicality rather than aesthetics, a floor mat’s main function is to give the garage floor extra protection and help to avoid the expense of replacing a damaged or stained floor. It can also cover unsightly marks and cracks and provide extra traction.
Floor mats are made from a variety of materials including rubber and polyvinyl plastic and in all sizes depending on if you want to cover the entire garage floor or only a specific section.
In order to choose the right floor mat for your garage it is important to know what you will use the mat for. Whichever you choose, the mat should be easy to clean.
Here is a list of some of the best garage floor mats on the market.
COMPARISON CHART
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
  |
1. Traxion 1-500 VersaMat Roll-Up High Density Foam Utility Mat
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
2. G-Floor Lite 7’6″ x 14′ Diamond Tread Rollout Garage Flooring
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
3. Armor All Original Garage Floor Mat
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
4. G-Floor Ribbed Garage Floor Mat
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
 |
5. Shield Family Floor Protector – Premium Absorbent Oil Mat
|
CHECK PRICE ► |
1. Traxion 1-500 VersaMat Roll-Up High Density Foam Utility Mat
Specification
| Mat Size | 46 3/4″ x 25″ |
| Roll Up Size | 25″ X 6″ |
| Thickness | 1″ |
Features
- High density, closed cell foam pad
- Comes in a heavy duty canvas cover
- Roll-up design for easy storage
- Durable double stitched material
A high density, firm, and resilient closed cell foam pad which comes wrapped in a heavy duty canvas cover. Convenient roll-up design ideal for storage. Mat size: 46¾”x25” with a thickness of 1”. Durable double stitched material.
WHAT WE LIKE
A versatile and compact mat. The comfortable foam pad protects your back and knees when working on vehicles. The fabric is easily cleaned with a simple wipe-down. The mat can be used outside, and since it is compact when rolled, it fits in the trunk, making it a great mechanic’s mat.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
Care needs to be taken when using the mat near open flames or blow torches, as the foam is not fireproof or made with fire retardant material. On occasion a lower quality nylon cover rather than the canvas cover (as stated in the specifications) has been sent to buyers.
PROS
- Comfortable foam pad
- Easy to clean
- Fits in the trunk
- Can be used outside
CONS
- Foam is not fire resistant
- Canvas cover replaced with a nylon substitute
2. G-Floor Lite 7’6″ x 14′ Diamond Tread Rollout Garage Flooring
Specification
| Size | 7’6″ x 14′ |
| Color | Slate Grey |
| Thickness | 5 Mil Base & 100 Mil Overall |
| Pattern | Diamond Tread |
Features
- Diamond tread rugged texture
- Easy to install
- Can be trimmed to fit any space
The mat’s diamond tread rugged texture is great for traction and slip-resistance. Can be placed over concrete and wooden floors to form a protective layer. Easy to install and cut to fit any size garage. Made from 100% polyvinyl, it guarantees longevity and durability. Since it is waterproof, there is no need to worry about leaks or rain exposure.
WHAT WE LIKE
Designed to be driven on, this mat provides strong traction. This is important if the garage is used as a main entrance to a house. The mat protects the floor from damage from chemical and oil spillages, as well as covering existing cracks and marks. This mat will give a professional look to your garage at an affordable price.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
Although the mat is being advertised as stain proof, some tires might cause discoloring. Due to its material, it doesn’t provide a comfortable area to lay on or stand on if you are working on a vehicle for any length of time. Fluctuating temperature may pull the mat out of shape, as it contracts and expands.
PROS
- Provides strong traction
- Protects the garage floor from damage
- Covers existing floor defects
- Industrial, professional look
- Affordable price
CONS
- Not stain proof and discoloration might occur
- Mat is not cushioned
- Susceptible to fluctuating temperatures
3. Armor All Original Garage Floor Mat
Specification
| Size | 17′ x 7’4″ |
| Material | Polyester, Polyolefin |
Features
- Protects floors from spillage and tire marks
- Made from polyester and polyolefin
- Roll of double-sided tape included
High quality product that protects floors from oil leaks, spills, and tire marks. Consists of two layers. The top layer is formed from a non-woven polyester fabric which gives the mat a carpeted feel. The waterproof bottom layer is made from polyolefin.The product comes with a roll of double-sided tape to secure the mat in place.
WHAT WE LIKE
This superior quality mat will look great in any space. The absorbent bottom layer creates a moisture barrier preventing water from damaging the floor and vehicles from rusting. It is easy to maintain and remove stains, by simply vacuuming, powerwashing, or hosing-off. If needed, the mat can be trimmed with scissors, and the edges will not fray or break.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
Color varies with different dye batches, so you have to order multiple floor mats together. Could be a problem if you decide later that you do not have enough material.
In the past, the mat’s backing caused marks on epoxy and painted floors. The issue has been resolved but check regularly to make sure your floor is not damaged. Not suitable for studded tires as backing will become punctured.
PROS
- Superior quality and aesthetically attractive
- Protects floor from moisture and vehicle’s from rusting
- Easy to maintain and remove stains
- No frayed or broken edges when trimmed
CONS
- Color can vary from one dye batch to another
- Backing may react with epoxy and painted floors
- Cannot be used with studded tires
4. G-Floor Ribbed Garage Floor Mat
Specification
| Size | 7’6″ x 17′ |
| Material | 100% Polyvinyl |
| Thickness | 55 Mil base & 120 Mil Overall |
| Finish | Sandstone with Ribbed Texture |
Features
- Ingenious rib design
- 100% polyvinyl
- Durable, waterproof, and slip-resistant
- DIY installation and easily trimmed to size
Comes in an attractive sandstone color. Perfect for installing over concrete or wood to protect the floor or hide defects. The clever rib design creates a parallel channel to contain moisture and dirt. Made from 100% polyvinyl, the mat is durable, waterproof, and slip resistant. DIY installation. Easily trimmed to size to fit awkward corners.
WHAT WE LIKE
Most mats come in a single color, but G-floor gives you a choice of colors. Easy to maintain and clean, all you need is a broom or damp map to remove dirt and moisture. This mat protects against damp and fluid spillages. Durable and strong, it will not buckle in sunlight or become discolored.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
Warranty does not cover spillages. Not suitable for studded tires as waterproof backing will become punctured. Although high quality, it is more expensive than other similar items.
PROS
- Easy to maintain and clean
- Protection against dirt and moisture
- Durable and strong
- Will not buckle in sunlight or become discolored
CONS
- Warranty is not comprehensive
- Cannot be used with studded tires
- Expensive
5. Shield Family Floor Protector – Premium Absorbent Oil Mat
Specification
| Size | 5ft x 8ft |
| Material | Nonwoven-Fabric |
| Weight | 4 lbs |
Features
- Protects floors from oil spillages
- High tech impenetrable membrane
- Easy to clean
- Lightweight, easy to store, and transport
This mat is designed to go under a vehicle and to protect floors from oil spills. It is made from an impermeable high tech membrane that prevents leakages. It is simple to install, just lay it down on the floor. Hose down or vacuum to clean. Lightweight, it is easy to store and transport.
WHAT WE LIKE
This practical mat is perfect for lightweight maintenance. Contains spills from oil and battery acid, as well as protects garage floors from stains and grime. Can be used under cars, motorcycles and other recreational vehicles.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
It does not have anti-slip properties, so be careful when walking on it. It is not 100% waterproof, so if moisture is a serious problem, another product might be more suitable. Cannot be used to park heavy or commercial vehicles.
PROS
- Perfect for lightweight vehicle maintenance
- Gives protection from spills
- Protects floor from stains and grime
- Can be used under small vehicles
CONS
- No anti-slip properties
- Not 100% waterproof
- Cannot be used under commercial vehicles
Conclusion
Deciding which garage floor mat to buy depends on what use you want to put it to, how often you work in the garage, and what size you need. For a quality portable floor mat which is comfortable to work on, durable, versatile and ideal for parking a vehicle, consider the Traxion 1-500 VersaMat Roll-Up High Density Foam Utility Mat. If you are looking for a floor mat to cover a larger area we suggest the G-Floor Ribbed Garage Floor Mat. Its clever design and high-quality properties will protect your floor from stains, spillages, scuffs, and moisture. It also comes in a choice of colors as well as different tread patterns (coin, diamond and levant) so you are bound to find a floor mat that is right for you.
