Interlocking floor systems can make it easier for you to get through the long days of trade shows. Trade show floors, which are typically concrete, are notoriously hard to stand on for days on end. Interlocking floors, or puzzle floors, contain Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, or EVA, foam, which is easier to stand on for long periods of time.

Puzzle flooring is set up just as the name implies. A series of tabs along each side of the interlocking floor connect with the next piece. An interlocking floor system takes minutes to set up and take down. Interlocking flooring for events comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns that you can color coordinate with all your other expo display items. Snap lock flooring is easy to clean and easy to carry.

As you consider interlocking floor systems for your next event, keep the following points in mind:

1. You can configure puzzle flooring to any size or shape.

2. You can find different textures of interlocking flooring for expos.

3. You can find different density foam.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Look for quality puzzle flooring that will last a long time

Choose a commercial-grade interlocking flooring product. It should be fire retardant, and oil and other stains should be easy to remove. The puzzle flooring should also be lightweight and easy to pack. Preferably, it should come with its own carrying case.

I recommend: Soft & Safe Floors offers a wide range of products that meet these specifications. Get Rung is another company that offers puzzle flooring.

Search for interlocking flooring products that are at least 5/8-inch thick

This gives you enough anti-fatigue bounce to really save stress on your back, knees and feet while you display your products at a trade show. While thinner products are available, they don't provide the relief you get from the thicker puzzle flooring.

I recommend: If you're looking for dense mats with lots of bright color choices, GreatMats.com is a good choice. Rubber-Cal offers mats in more subdued colors.

Think outside the box when choosing interlocking floor systems

Consider using interlocking flooring for displays that have a carpeted layer on top to give your trade show booth a warm, cozy feel. Interlocking gym mats are another item to consider as you search for just the right puzzle flooring for expos and trade shows. Both of these products still offer all the characteristics of an interlocking floor system, but with a different presentation.

I recommend: PosterGarden.com offers carpeted puzzle flooring for expos. Netfitco.com offers interlocking floor mats for exercise purposes that you can easily adapt to meet your puzzle flooring needs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Clean your puzzle floors before you put them away at the end of each trade show. Clean them with a broom or vacuum cleaner. Wipe up any spills with a soft cloth. Remove sticky substances with any basic household cleaner.
• •  Use duct tape on the back of the puzzle flooring to hold the pieces together if necessary.