Article Library

One of the most versatile types of flooring we offer at Greatmats is our 18x18 rubber tiles. These tiles offer a high level of durability, making them a good value when installing them in areas that are tough on flooring. They can go in commercial, retail, or residential locations.

One of the biggest benefits of our 18x18 rubber tiles is that they are available in colors beyond the standard black color. We have multiple tiles in this size that include stylish design patterns that provide a more desirable look than most rubber floor options, all without giving up any of rubber’s resilience.

Size and Shape Options

Our 18-by-18-inch rubber tiles all have a squarish shape, but we do offer two different configurations that potentially affect the install process.

To simplify installation, we offer tiles that interlock together, using an edge that resembles a jigsaw puzzle. Because of the tight fit among the interlocking edges, installers do not need to add any glue to the edges to ensure a secure fit.

We also offer straight-edged tiles that slide against each other in the final layout. They do not interlock together. Installers will need to glue each tile to the subfloor to ensure it remains in place without sliding around.

Our 18x18 rubber tiles range in thickness between about 1/8 inches and 1/4 inches (or about 3 mm and 6 mm).

Material Options

By sourcing these rubber tiles from manufacturers in the United States, you can trust the quality of the materials in use. Our 18x18 rubber tiles do not have weak spots or impure materials that could affect the integrity of the layout.

Our tiles provide a great cost benefit, as they have limited manufacturer warranties up to 10 years. Rubber is highly durable, meaning you will not have to replace the floor very often.

Pattern and Texture Options

Although most rubber floors consist of solid black colored tiles, our 18x18 rubber tiles offer both traditional black and other colors, depending on your needs. We also have a few tiles that contain raised patterns on the surface of the tile, making them ideal for a customer-facing location.

Color options in our 18x18 rubber tiles include:
  • Black
  • Shale gray
  • Agate gray
  • Gray
  • Charcoal
  • Beige
  • Forest green
  • Brown
  • Black
  • Navy blue
  • Rocky slate
  • Mocha
  • Clay

Some of these tiles include contrasting color flecks embedded in the rubber flooring, providing an even more interesting look.

For the tiles that offer a raised pattern, we offer round, square, and sculptured shapes.

Common Use Options

Our colored tiles have a design that works well in areas where businesses or organizations need to impress visitors. In a retail setting, the colors of these tiles can match the company’s official colors. Additionally, rubber is easy to clean and reduces any slip hazard in wet conditions.

They also work nicely in a professional setting, such as a museum, a library, a school, or a medical institution. Commercial facilities appreciate the durability that these floors provide.

For areas where you want to create a specific workout space at home or at the gym for a treadmill or a stationary bike, the rubber keeps the exercise equipment from sliding around, even during intense workout sessions.

Installation Options

When making use of the interlocking rubber tiles, the installation process goes quickly. Just line up the tabs on one tile with the slots on the adjacent tile. Then press the two edges together to make them fit together. You may have to step on the tiles to apply enough force.

With interlocking tiles, you can dry lay them. You do not need to glue the edges, and you do not have to glue the tiles to the subfloor (although you can).

With the straight-edge tiles, you must glue them to the subfloor. There is no option for connecting them together, so you must secure them to the subfloor to prevent them from sliding around. Just place the tiles tightly against each other as you glue them down.

Cleaning and Maintenance Requirements

Start any cleaning process by removing fine soils and dry debris. Use a broom, a floor dust mop, or a vacuum cleaner to remove the dust from the surface of the tiles. This should occur on a daily basis in a high or medium traffic area.

You can wet mop the floor on an as needed basis. Mop the rubber flooring with an approved cleaner for the type of rubber flooring that you installed. You sometimes can make use of an auto scrubber.

Allow the floor to dry over a few hours. Do not apply heat to the area to try to speed up the drying process. You can bring floor fans into the area, if desired.