Peel and stick backsplash tile is one of the best materials you can use to bring your kitchen or bathroom into this decade. Home improvement novices rejoice: These adhesive-backed plastics or vinyl squares that mimic the look of tile are extremely simple to install, because you don’t have to worry about dealing with mortar, grout, or any other messy substance required for traditional tiles.
The peel-and-stick version might be innovative, but if you’re not using the real thing, can your decor end up looking tacky? Basically, are peel and stick tiles any good? And more importantly, do peel and stick tiles last?
It’s a fine line to toe, which is why we’re here to help you weigh the benefits and drawbacks of peel and stick tile. Here’s what to know about peel-and-stick backsplash tile.
Types of peel-and-stick tile
Peel and stick tile, like traditional tile, comes in a variety of materials. One way to choose the right tile for your home is to think about the material you want to feature and go from there.
Vinyl: Made with foam or plastic backing, this tile tends to be the cheapest on the market.
Metal: Yup, it’s real (lightweight) metal—usually aluminum—with a sticky adhesive.
Glass: This glossy style offers a more glamorous look. Antique mirrored glass will open up your kitchen and make it look more spacious.
Stone: Get the look of a real slate backsplash without having to deal with messy grout or mortar.
Gel: Faux ceramic or glass tiles are made from a 3D gel material. Fancy a white subway tile backsplash? It’s typically made of gel.
Advantages of peel and stick tile
Peel and stick tile is ideal for people who can’t (or don’t want to) install permanent decor in their homes.
They’re “great for renters, provided the material is removable,” says Joy of Bridge-Home product manager.
They’re also far less difficult to install than traditional tile, which requires hours of time and lots of materials (e.g., mortar, grout, tile spacers, etc.). All you have to do is measure the space, peel off the backing, and stick the tile sheet to the wall.
“If you’re looking for a quick update at a good price, a peel-and-stick backsplash fits the bill,” says Joy.
How to install peel-and-stick backsplash tile
Luckily, most of the instructions for installation are in the name!
To apply peel-and-stick backsplash tiles, start with a clean surface. Use a cleaning spray or soap and water to remove any gunk from the wall and let it dry.
Measure the space carefully, and use a ruler and box cutter to cut the amount you’ll need for the space. Remove part of the back sheet and adhere the backsplash to the wall, pulling off more of the back sheet as you adhere the backsplash to the wall. Smooth the surface with the edge of a credit card or the ruler.
That’s it—no grout to clean up and no drying time.
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