Update the appearance of a floor, wall, or backsplash with peel-and-stick tiles while avoiding some common mistakes.
5.DON’T stretch the peel-and-stick tile too much when installing.
After measuring the surface area for the backsplash, wall, or floor, planning out the exact layout of the tiles, and cutting them to the correct size and shape, the job should be relatively straightforward. Just peel and stick the tiles in the correct place and orientation according to the plan and the result should look as you intended. However, some DIYers put too much force into bending, pressing, and flexing the tiles as they install them, which can cause the tile to stretch.
When the tiles become stretched out, they take up more space than originally intended, creating problems with the installation. The stretched tile is susceptible to breaking and doesn’t fit with the established pattern, so it needs to be removed before the job can be completed. If you choose to leave the stretched tile, expect this damaged piece to stand out from the rest of the project, negatively impacting the aesthetic appearance and the quality of the job.
6.DO keep extra peel-and-stick tile for future repairs.
Tile manufacturers and the companies that stock these products regularly update available color palettes, patterns, and tile thicknesses, so there is no guarantee that you will be able to find the same type of tile, even if you return just a few weeks later. For this reason, it’s a good idea to invest in extra tiles. Having about 5 percent more tiles than necessary to complete the project helps to ensure that the color and pattern match the existing tiles in case any pieces are ripped off, cracked, chipped, or otherwise broken.
If damage to the existing tile does occur, use a blow dryer to warm up the adhesive, then gently peel the damaged tile off and prepare the surface for the installation of the new tile. In most cases, small patches can be completed without needing to move or reassemble the surrounding tiles. Just make sure that the replacement tile is facing the correct direction so that the repair blends in seamlessly with the existing pattern.
7.DO use gentle heat for easier removal.
Replace old peel-and-stick tiles before installing a new floor, backsplash, or wall to ensure that the surface is clean and smooth for the best results. Newly installed tiles should also be replaced if they become loose, chipped, or broken, but the strong adhesive on the back of the tile can make removal difficult.
To help prevent damage to the wall or floor behind the tiles, use a heat gun or hairdryer to apply gentle heat to each tile. The heat increases the flexibility of the tile and loosens the adhesive, making it easier to remove the tile from the wall. A putty knife can help to break through stubborn adhesive without damaging the surface of the wall or floor, though the remaining adhesive will need to be sanded or scraped from the surface before the new tile can be laid.
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