The newest "wrinkle" in garage floor finishing is roll-out vinyl floor mats. Much like the resilient flooring used in kitchens, the mats are available in 8-foot-wide rolls up to 36 feet in length.

Three 8-by-24-foot rolls will cover a typical double (two bay) garage floor. According to Gladiator Garage Works, which introduced this product in 2007, once the mats are installed they will not creep, tear or wrinkle in normal use, even under the weight of automobiles.

There is always the possibility that water can become trapped below the mat, or that insects will take up residence beneath it. Edges, especially those facing the garage doors, also could be vulnerable to curling and casual damage.

Gladiator claims that a bead of silicone applied under the edges prevents the mats from lifting and keeps water from seeping in. --MM