Peel-and-stick tile is seemingly everywhere these days. Once regarded as a cheap, low-quality alternative to traditional tile, today it’s accepted by many as a budget-friendly way to upgrade your home.
Peel-and-stick tiles promise a stylish transformation without the hefty price tag or the need for professional installation, making them ideal for renters and DIY enthusiasts alike.
The look and durability of peel-and-stick tile has also come a long way in the past decade or so. We’re not talking about the peel-and-stick tile at your local dollar store here.
But is peel-and-stick tile really all it’s promised to be? Before sticking them to your walls or floors, is there anything you should know? We turned to the experts for insight on this trending DIY solution.
Meet the Expert
- Mike Belk is a flooring and tile expert and the owner and founder of BELK Tile.
- Courtney Batten is the owner and principal designer of Page Studio, an interior design firm based in Dallas, Texas.
- Alexey Beliy is the owner of HEX General Contractors, a home renovation company based in the Sacramento, California, area.
Durability and Longevity
The experts agree that peel-and-stick tiles have made great strides in durability. Many brands can last several years when applied correctly. However, Mike Belk, owner and founder of BELK Tile, says they still lack the durability of traditional ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tiles.
According to Belk, several factors affect the durability and longevity of peel-and-stick tiles, including how well the tiles were installed and the environmental conditions they are subjected to.
Unlike traditional tiles, peel-and-stick tiles don’t hold up well against moisture in the long term. Prolonged moisture exposure can weaken the adhesive, leading to edges curling and tiles shifting or lifting entirely. This means that areas with heavy steam or water exposure should be avoided if longevity is what you’re looking for (think shower walls and bathroom floors).
Peel-and-stick tiles are also more susceptible to surface damage (such as scratches and stains), so consider this when choosing where to install them. Avoiding high-traffic areas is usually a good idea.
Want more home reno project tips and inspiration? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest how-tos, reno guides, and more!
Ideal Applications for Peel-and-Stick Tile
Given their durability limitations, peel-and-stick tiles are generally best used in low-traffic, low-moisture areas of the home.
“Kitchen backsplashes are ideal for peel and stick since it’s a relatively small area that has a huge impact on the feel of your space,” says Courtney Batten, owner and principal designer of Paige Studio. “I’ve also used peel-and-stick tile as a fireplace surround in a rental that completely changed the look without sacrificing the security deposit.”
Peel-and-stick tiles can also be used successfully for laundry rooms, accent walls, and even stair risers, according to Alexey Beliy, owner of HEX General Contractors. Unfortunately, peel-and-stick tiles will not hold up well on rough walls and floors or uneven surfaces.
Installation Tips
Proper installation will determine the longevity of your peel-and-stick tile. In addition to choosing the right location in your home, thoroughly preparing the surface is critical.
“We’ve seen this step is often rushed through, but it’s hugely important,” Beliy says. “This type of tile sticks best to smooth, clean, dry surfaces like primed drywall or painted wood.”
So, do you need to use a primer before installing peel-and-stick tile? Not necessarily, but it can help on certain surfaces, particularly if you’re attempting to install over old paint. It is most important to properly clean the area to remove all dust, grease, and other adhesives and then allow it to dry completely.
Are Peel and Stick Tiles Worth It?
So, are peel-and-stick tiles worth it? According to the pros, it depends.
“These tiles can be great for quick, cost-effective upgrades, especially for DIYers looking for a stylish fix,” Beliy says. “But if you’re aiming for a high-end, durable finish, you might want to save up for professionally installed tile.”
Peel-and-stick tiles are also ideal for renters who want to customize the look of their space without losing their security deposit. As long as you understand that they don’t replace the durability and longevity of high-quality traditional tiles, the experts encourage you to use them however you like.
