It’s a dangerous world out there for nice floors. Anything from parties to construction, heavy equipment, spills, and dropped objects can scratch or stain the surface. And on most types of permanent flooring, one damaged section could mean that the entire floor has to be replaced, which is expensive and inconvenient. So what should a homeowner or landlord do to protect his/her investment? This is where a type of temporary protective floor covering like an interlocking floor tile makes for an ideal product. Options like interlocking rubber tiles are temporary, affordable, durable, and reusable.

An interlocking floor consists of easy-to-install snap-together tiles that resemble puzzle pieces. Mats interlocking in organized rows are typically made out of rubber, which makes them lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. Furthermore, many types of rubber snap-together tiles, such as the Puzzle Lock, are heavy enough to stay down under their own weight, which means that they don’t require an adhesive. This makes it simple to install and uninstall the tiles, and eliminates the damage that adhesives can cause. It is also a good choice for an impermanent floor because the tiles are modular and can be used in different configurations anywhere from the house to the basement, or even outdoors. This means that the same tiles can be used to protect hardwood floors from gym equipment, or to protect the grass outdoors during a party.

Here are five applications for a temporary protective floor covering:

1. Parties: Parties increase foot traffic inside the home, making the floor subject to scratches, spills, and other costly damage. Whether the party is being held inside the home or outdoors, protecting the surface is a must. Interlocking rubber tiles are the ideal option for parties because they can be used indoors and outdoors, are easy to install, and can be to protect different areas once the event is over. When used indoors, these tiles can be placed in high-traffic areas such as entryways, dining rooms, or living rooms to protect the surfaces. Once the party is over, wipe down the floor using regular household cleaners and simply lift up the pieces to uninstall them. The floor underneath will be left in perfect condition and the tiles can be put away for the next big party or event.
2. Indoor gyms: Indoor gym equipment might be convenient, but it subjects the flooring to heavy equipment and dropped barbells and other weights. Using snap-together tiles can be a great option to protect the floor underneath. As an added bonus, this flooring option also makes the gym safer by providing traction to prevent slips, and cushion to absorb the shock from falls or activities. Use interlocking rubber tiles for individual pieces of equipment, or cover the entire room with the tiles to create a fluid look and a safer environment. Rubber mats interlocking across gym floors is a ubiquitous site in America’s fitness rooms.
3. Construction: Construction in a home is a major hassle. There’s a chance that the regular flooring might be removed, and if it’s not removed, it can easily be scratched or damaged by tools and equipment. Although it is common to install a tarp as a temporary protective floor covering, it is not enough to protect the surface from damage. Interlocking rubber tiles are the better option, as they can create safe pathways in areas with no flooring, or if there is flooring, it provides cushion that can protect it from damage and dropped tools.
4. Indoor basketball courts and recreation centers: The flooring in indoor basketball courts and recreation centers is often expensive, but necessary to provide athletes with the best possible experience. But these areas often host non-athletic events as well, including dances, meetings, graduations, fairs, conferences, seminars, and that is when you see mats interlocking across the floor! Not only is there increased foot traffic from these events, but tables, chairs, and even the wrong type of footwear can scrape, scratch, or even dent the hardwood floor. This damage is unsightly and also creates a tripping hazard for athletes. One common fix for this is a vinyl tarp, but not only does that option lack aesthetic appeal, but it offers the surface little protection from harm. Interlocking rubber tiles, on the other hand, can create a safe environment that protects the floor from damage, is non-slip, and creates a safer environment for guests. With the floor protected from harm, there is little need to worry when the area is used for an event or rented out to host one.
5. Protective mats: It might be necessary to protect a section of the floor without covering the entire surface area. This is where a mat would be useful. These mats can use the same tiles as the floor and protect the surface from pets, gym equipment, water damage, and more. Place a couple of interlocking rubber tiles in front of a kitchen sink to make the area slip-resistant, anti-fatigue, and protect the original surface from spills. Or use rubber mats (interlocking) to protect the flooring from a treadmill, or other heavy equipment. Mats can also be used in playrooms or pet areas to create a safer, cleaner, and softer surface for children and pets alike.

An interlocking floor is the ideal type of temporary protective floor covering because it is temporary, affordable, reusable, and can be used in a variety of situations. These snap-together tiles are also easy to install and create a surface that is slip-resistant, shock-absorbent, and easy to clean.

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