What Are Interlocking Tiles, and Where Are They Used?

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Today, redesigning a house doesn't come that easy. There are so many fine details that one needs to pay attention to before jumping on the wagon. All of this needs to be done keeping in mind that the quality of redesigning has to be top-notch. The master head-scratcher of them all, which is the flooring, is the most important, yet the most underrated aspect of redesigning a home. In most cases, we may end up spending so much on making our homes ornamental that we cut costs on flooring, which compromises the quality. After a few good years, those grout lines start to appear more and more distinct and some of them may even start to shake in their place.

Thanks to modern technology and innovation, interlocking tiles are here to solve all our tiling problems. Not only are they technically equipped with modern flooring solutions but they also come in a wide range of designs that will bring your home projects to life.

What are interlocking tiles?

Interlocking tiles are tiles that interlock each other to form a floating floor. This means that the tiles are not glued down to the main floor. They are interlocked using an interlocking system over a flat surface and are held by the gravity of their own weight.

Where are interlocking tiles used?

Entrance:

A great way to enhance the look of your entryway and make a lasting first impression is by using interlocking tiles at the entrance. It is also possible to use interlocking tiles to create a patio or pathway leading to the entrance of your house.

Steps:

Interlocking tiles also look great on steps, making them easy to install and maintain too. Similarly, they are a safer choice for the same reasons because they are not so slippery in the rain as natural stone or concrete stairs are.

Flower beds:

Adding interlocking tiles to flower beds enhances the look and functionality of the space. It can make the flower bed an attractive spot in your home. You may also build a raised flower bed or a garden walk using interlocking tiles.

Walls:

Using interlocking tiles in retaining walls is a great way to that extra appeal to your homes. The good thing about this is that you get to be creative and use the tiles as per your preference. You can also use interlocking tiles to create a decorative feature or a privacy wall.

Driveway:

Interlocking tiles in the driveway not only create a captivating driveway but also adds value to your home. It is a great update from the conventional paved driveway and adds a beautiful aesthetic. Moreover, interlocking tiles are much more durable and can help reduce rainwater runoff compared to traditional paving tiling materials.

Interlocking tiles Design Ideas

You may wonder what materials are used in interlocking tiles. There are several types of interlocking tiles in different materials that are available in the market.

Slate Interlocking Tiles Design:

Slate is a metamorphic rock formed under great heat and pressure. This is what makes it hard and durable. It is also resistant to water, unlike some other natural stones. Many people may think of slate as stone grey or black, but contrary to this belief, it is available in different colours like purple, green, orange and so on.

Granite Interlocking Tiles Design:

Granite is an igneous material, whose composition is usually dominated by Quartz. It is a high-end paving material, but it has certain drawbacks if used outdoors. Granite interlocking tile is usually highly polished, which means it has a slippery surface. This may not be safe for people walking on it as it may cause accidents. It is also a relatively porous stone compared to the others available. Due to this reason, granite will need regular sealing to prevent staining and water absorption.

Limestone Interlocking Tiles Design:

Limestone is a sedimentary rock made of carbon-based substitutes of marine life that have been forming and compressed over millions of years. Its natural formation is the reason why it has tiny fossils over it. Limestone is a favourite construction material because it is available easily and in abundance and is a versatile stone. Limestone is found in shades of tan, brown, grey and white. It is softer than slate and granite, which makes it susceptible to chipping and wear and tear. It is preferable to use this stone in dry areas like the patio for it to last longer.

Sandstone Interlocking Tiles Design:

Another sedimentary rock which is even softer than limestone, sandstone is formed out of layers of sand compressed over time and it has a beautiful texture. Its softness is what makes it vulnerable to scratching, which is why it needs regular sealing to prevent water penetration. It is best to use this stone for outdoor spaces that are dry for it to last longer.

Travertine Interlocking Floor Tiles Design:

Considered a form of limestone, travertine floor interlocking tiles are mined around natural mineral spring deposits. Even though it is very attractive and hard, it has a slightly pitted surface that may tend to collect dirt and dust unless it is polished. Highly polished travertine can get very slippery, which means it cannot be used in places where there is good footfall. The travertine floor interlocking tiles mined in Turkey or Italy is known to have more water resistance compared to the ones found in Mexico or China.

Soapstone Interlocking Floor Tiles Design:

Known for its smooth, silky texture, soapstone is a non-porous natural stone which comes with good water resistance and heat resistance. This is why this stone is very useful in places that have very hot climates. A great choice to use around swimming pools, soapstone performs exceptionally well in wet areas. It is usually available in shades of black, dark grey, blush grey and green.

Quarry Interlocking Tiles Design:

Unlike the name, quarry tiles are not really mined from natural quarries, but they are a kind of artificial stone that is made from unglazed clay along with other natural materials and fired at high temperatures to make them hard, almost in the same way that traditional bricks are made. They make a great choice for patios and are in a way, created for outdoor uses. They are available in a limited colour range, namely red, brown or grey. They give your spaces a rustic, bohemian kind of vibe. They have great water resistance, which makes them user-friendly even in wet areas. The only downside to quarry tiles is that they may not work well in cold temperatures as they tend to get even cooler.

Ceramic Tiles For Interlocking:

Interlocking ceramic tiles for floors are an acceptable choice for outdoor patios as they are strong and durable. They are made from clay and fired at high temperatures, thus explaining their strength. When we say acceptable choice, we mean that there are better, more durable and stronger options. Ceramic tiles are usually glazed and are used for wall tiling, which may seem to be tricky because they can get slippery sooner than we know. When lightly used, interlocking ceramic tiles can work well on patios.

Porcelain Tiles For Interlocking:

Porcelain tiles are a dense and strong form of ceramic tiles, made from finer clays and fired at higher temperatures than the standard firing. This is what makes them tougher and more durable compared to ceramic tiles. Porcelain interlocking tiles for home come in a vast range offering different textures, colours and designs. The best ones are those that are textured and have a matte surface as they won't be slippery when wet.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of PP Interlocking Tiles. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

Concrete Tiles For Interlocking:

Get the look of natural stone at the best price with concrete tiles. These tiles are moulded from poured concrete and give the textures and colours as that of natural concrete. They are widely used for patios because of their toughness. Although they can get stained easily which may need regular sealing.

Wood deck Tiles For Interlocking:

Wood deck tiles are basically large squares of wood or composite planks attached to backing strips with interlocking edges. They are usually made with water-resistant wood such as cedar or redwood. Super easy to install, they do not need any understructure and create great patio flooring.

Interlocking plastic tiles:

These are relatively new forms of tiles that come with interlocking edges. The good thing about these tiles is that their texture is slip resistant which guards against slips and falls. They can also be installed as a DIY project. They may not fulfil your wish of being aesthetically pleasing but they are extremely durable and long-lasting. All you need to do is to lay them on a flat surface and interlock the edges. It is that easy.

Rubber tiles For Interlocking:

Often used in sports courts, gyms and play areas, they are similar to plastic interlocking tiles that form a resilient surface. They are reasonably priced, which makes them affordable and they are super easy to install. For a project that has a tight budget, this is a great choice as it is an easy DIY project that comes in handy.

Carpet tiles For Interlocking:

Carpet tiles come in a lot of varieties. Depending on the type, carpet tiles may be peeled and stuck, adhered with adhesive tape or have interlocking edges. They can be easily installed on a flat surface and are easy to remove in case of wear and tear.

Also Read: What's the Best Flooring to Use at Home

What are the advantages of interlocking tiles?

There are so many benefits of having interlocking tiles in your spaces. Here are some of the most significant benefits of interlocking tiles.

• Easy installation: Unlike other tiles and pavers, interlocking tiles come in handy when it comes to installation. They do not need to be secured with any kind of glue or screws or any pasting materials. All they need is to be interlocked, which makes the installation quick and super easy
• Built to Last: Interlocking tiles are manufactured with high-quality materials and sound processes to ensure that they bear a good life and a long-lasting flooring solution.
• Load-bearing capacity: Interlocking tiles are made in a way that they can bear a high amount of footfall with activities like dancing or physical performances. These tiles are designed in a way that they make such strenuous activities possible without much difficulty to the feet. They also help in acoustic absorption and provide underfoot comfort.
• Protection: Interlocking floor tiles are durable, stain, scratch and water resistant. This is why they provide all-around protection. Because of their super qualities, they are versatile and can be used in damp spaces like kitchens, bathrooms and even around swimming pools.
• Appearance: It is important to have tiles that are not only great in performance but also enhance the look of your spaces. Interlocking tiles bear both good looks as well as performance. There are a lot of options available in colours and designs that would suit each person's preference.
• Chemical Resistance: Interlocking tiles are made in such a way that they prohibit any kind of chemical reaction. They are resistant to chemicals alongside other substances like petrol, alcohol and harsh abrasives. Because of this feature, interlocking tiles have become famous in the construction industry.

Conclusion

You can find these flooring ideas in an array of materials and styles that can be installed without any hassle. Thanks to their tough, easy-care, and anti-slip design, these interlocking tiles are perfect for your use!
Keeping clean floors requires frequent sweeping. In the case of a spill, you can use a damp mop with detergent on it. On the other hand, some very difficult stains should be removed according to the instructions on the container.

Speak to our Tile Expert

FAQs

Are interlocking tiles good?

Yes, interlocking tiles are good with the advantages of easy installation, durability, damage resistance and waterproofness. They might not fit uneven floors and might not be as nice as permanent flooring solutions.

What are the benefits of interlocking tiles?

Since interlocking tile designs don't require glue or screws, installation is simple! It's an easy task that works well for all types of users. These are made to withstand a lot of foot activity, so they are ideal for active families. Indoors and outdoors, they can be used depending on where you want them since they stay nice looking with maintenance and cleaning.

How long do interlocking tiles last?

The long life of interlocking tiles may be determined by the type of material they are made of, usage, and maintenance. They are known to last long if well taken care of; normally, they can last from five to fifteen years.

Can interlocking tiles be easily removed or reinstalled?

Yes, the interlocking tiles are that simple to remove and install again. Thanks to their interlocking mechanism, you can easily take them off without damaging your flooring. Therefore, they are ideal for situations where you may need to get to the subfloor or for temporary flooring.

How do you clean an interlocking floor?

Keeping clean floors requires frequent sweeping. In the case of a spill, you can use a damp mop with detergent on it. On the other hand, some very difficult stains should be removed according to the instructions on the container.

By Paige Cerulli

How Long Do Interlocking Foam Tiles Last?

It's important to understand that there are many different types of interlocking foam tiles, and they can vary in quality, performance, and durability. How long a tile will last will depend on the specific tile, how it's used, and how well you care for it.


Most interlocking foam tiles have a one-year warranty, but they can last for more than a decade when they're properly cared for. You'll also find that some specialty tiles, particularly those intended for athletic use, have longer warranties.

To maximize the lifespan of your tiles, it's important to start by choosing tiles that are appropriate for how you plan to use them. For example, if you're looking for flooring for a martial arts facility, then you will need to choose a commercial tile that's designed to withstand the increased traffic and use that the flooring will see in that type of setting.







Similarly, if you're looking for tiles to install in a basement that has some moisture issues, then you'll need to choose a tile that is waterproof. A tile that absorbs moisture will be prone to developing mold and mildew, and you will likely have to throw it out if your basement leaks or floods.

It's also important to consider whether you will need to put furniture on top of the tiles. Some tiles are designed to withstand that weight, while other tiles will be damaged by the weight of furniture and may need to be replaced.

Consider whether you will be repeatedly removing the tiles, too. Some tiles are designed specifically to withstand repeated removals and re-installations, and they tend to feature highly durable interlocks.



Alternatively, some tiles are intended to be installed and left in place long-term. Using these tiles for repeated installations could result in damage to the interlocks, and will shorten the useful life of your flooring.

Proper installation plays a role in the lifespan of your tiles. Start by reading the installation instructions provided for your tiles.

You may need to leave gaps at the edges of your flooring (where it meets the walls), allowing the flooring to expand and contract with changing temperatures. The manufacturer will provide details on proper installation technique, including how to cut foam tiles without damaging them.

Be sure to also care for your interlocking foam tiles, too. Take the time to thoroughly read any care instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Depending on the tiles, you may be able to sweep them, damp mop them, or even vacuum them, but only use the cleaning methods approved by the manufacturer. Additionally, it's always a good idea to try any cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area of the flooring to confirm that it doesn't damage the product.

Additional Benefits of Interlocking Foam Tiles

Not only are interlocking foam tiles and mats durable, they offer many other benefits, too. EVA foam mats create a soft surface that can make a room more welcoming, comfortable, and even safer.

These tiles can help to absorb the impact of a fall, making them ideal for spaces used by kids. They can also help to relieve fatigue and minimize the impact on joints, keeping staff more comfortable when they spend long hours on their feet.

At Greatmats, we offer a wide selection of interlocking foam tiles. These include thinner tiles suitable for kids' rooms, all the way up to the extra thick mats needed for MMA facilities.

These mats also include special features, like waterproof designs that make it easy to clean up spills. Many of our MMA mats have a no-burn texture that helps to prevent skin burns, ideal for groundwork.



You'll find that interlocking foam tiles are highly versatile. Many can be installed directly over a hard surface, like wood, and you can even lay the tiles over carpet. Some tiles can be briefly used outdoors.

Thanks to the puzzle-style edges, these tiles are easy to install, and can often be removed and reinstalled again as needed. They're lightweight and easy to transport and store.

You can cut foam tiles to fit a room using a sharp utility knife and a straight edge. Many of our tiles are also available with edge pieces for a clean, finished edge.

Whether you're looking for interlocking foam tiles for your home or for your martial arts studio, you'll have plenty of products to choose from at Greatmats. Our customer service team is happy to help you determine which product is best for your needs.

Interlocking foam tiles are a versatile and popular flooring choice. Whether you're looking for flooring for a kids' playroom, a school, or an exercise room, chances are that you're considering foam tiles. Whenever you buy flooring, it's important to understand how durable it is and how long you can expect it to last. Here's what to know about interlocking foam tiles.It's important to understand that there are many different types of interlocking foam tiles, and they can vary in quality, performance, and durability. How long a tile will last will depend on the specific tile, how it's used, and how well you care for it.You'll also find that some specialty tiles, particularly those intended for athletic use, have longer warranties.To maximize the lifespan of your tiles, it's important to start by choosing tiles that are appropriate for how you plan to use them. For example, if you're looking for flooring for a martial arts facility, then you will need to choose a commercial tile that's designed to withstand the increased traffic and use that the flooring will see in that type of setting. Troy of Stockbridge TKD Academy speaks about their 16-year-old Martial Arts Premium Karate Mats, 'They made it 16 years, and we didn't even have to flip them over,' Troy said. 'The only time we flipped them over was just to change the color of the sparring ring. ' You can find (puzzle mats) anywhere, but to find them durable enough to last' nothing lasts 16 years anymore. It's almost impossible to find anything that's going to last 5 years, let alone 16.'Similarly, if you're looking for tiles to install in a basement that has some moisture issues, then you'll need to choose a tile that is waterproof. A tile that absorbs moisture will be prone to developing mold and mildew, and you will likely have to throw it out if your basement leaks or floods.It's also important to consider whether you will need to put furniture on top of the tiles. Some tiles are designed to withstand that weight, while other tiles will be damaged by the weight of furniture and may need to be replaced.Consider whether you will be repeatedly removing the tiles, too. Some tiles are designed specifically to withstand repeated removals and re-installations, and they tend to feature highly durable interlocks.Alternatively, some tiles are intended to be installed and left in place long-term. Using these tiles for repeated installations could result in damage to the interlocks, and will shorten the useful life of your flooring.Proper installation plays a role in the lifespan of your tiles. Start by reading the installation instructions provided for your tiles.You may need to leave gaps at the edges of your flooring (where it meets the walls), allowing the flooring to expand and contract with changing temperatures. The manufacturer will provide details on proper installation technique, including how to cut foam tiles without damaging them.Be sure to also care for your interlocking foam tiles, too. Take the time to thoroughly read any care instructions provided by the manufacturer.Depending on the tiles, you may be able to sweep them, damp mop them, or even vacuum them, but only use the cleaning methods approved by the manufacturer. Additionally, it's always a good idea to try any cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area of the flooring to confirm that it doesn't damage the product.Not only are interlocking foam tiles and mats durable, they offer many other benefits, too. EVA foam mats create a soft surface that can make a room more welcoming, comfortable, and even safer.These tiles can help to absorb the impact of a fall, making them ideal for spaces used by kids. They can also help to relieve fatigue and minimize the impact on joints, keeping staff more comfortable when they spend long hours on their feet.At Greatmats, we offer a wide selection of interlocking foam tiles. These include thinner tiles suitable for kids' rooms, all the way up to the extra thick mats needed for MMA facilities.These mats also include special features, like waterproof designs that make it easy to clean up spills. Many of our MMA mats have a no-burn texture that helps to prevent skin burns, ideal for groundwork.You'll find that interlocking foam tiles are highly versatile. Many can be installed directly over a hard surface, like wood, and you can even lay the tiles over carpet. Some tiles can be briefly used outdoors.Thanks to the puzzle-style edges, these tiles are easy to install, and can often be removed and reinstalled again as needed. They're lightweight and easy to transport and store.You can cut foam tiles to fit a room using a sharp utility knife and a straight edge. Many of our tiles are also available with edge pieces for a clean, finished edge.Whether you're looking for interlocking foam tiles for your home or for your martial arts studio, you'll have plenty of products to choose from at Greatmats. Our customer service team is happy to help you determine which product is best for your needs.

For more information, please visit Gym Rubber Flooring.