Pros and Cons of Peel and Stick Tile
This low-cost, low-commitment tiling method has its appeal
Highlights
Peel and stick tile has adhesive already included on the back of each tile.
Peel and stick tile pros include affordability and ease of installation.
However, there are cons too, including that it may not last as long as regular tile.
Peel and stick tile allows you to update spaces quickly and affordably, since it requires less work and fewer materials than other types of tile. But you’ll still need to be neat and careful if you decide to install it yourself, and it’s not a suitable material for every surface. We’ll go over the pros and cons of peel and stick tile so you can decide whether this budget-friendly option is the right choice for your home.
What Is Peel and Stick Tile?
Peel and stick tile has an adhesive layer which you peel from the paper or plastic backing and then stick to the surface of your choice. Peel and stick tile has its advantages, including convenience, simplicity, and affordability, and you don’t need to be an expert to install it (or remove it). However, the drawbacks to this method include lower durability than traditional tile and the chance that the adhesive will fail over time, causing the edges to lift.
| Pros of Peel and Stick Tile | Cons of Peel and Stick Tile |
|---|---|
| DIY-friendly | Lacks durability |
| Removable | Won’t adhere to all surfaces |
| Affordable | Can look cheap |
Pros of Peel and Stick Tile
Peel and stick tile can be a simple way to freshen your space without a lot of fuss. Here are some advantages of peel and stick tile.
Easier to Install
Because the tile has a self-adhesive backing, you can simply stick it where you want. You can do the job yourself, too, since it’s fairly simple and straightforward.
Requires Fewer Materials
With this method, you won’t need the supplies and equipment necessary for traditional tile installation, such as backer board, mastic, mortar, spacers, or grout. You may not need a tile saw or wet saw, either.
Installs Quickly
Once you’ve peeled the backing and stuck the tile in place, you’re done. You can install a peel and stick backsplash in just six steps. You don’t need to clean up messy grout or mortar, either, although you can grout peel and stick tile if you want to.
Removable
Peel and stick tile is removable, making it a good fit for renters or homeowners who want to change up their spaces frequently.
Less Expensive
Peel and stick tile is often more affordable than traditional tile. For flooring, peel and stick tile typically costs $1 to $5 per square foot, although some designs can cost more. Backsplashes made of peel and stick tile generally cost $4 to $30 per square foot.
You can also save money over traditional tile since you’ll need fewer materials and can DIY the job if you like, lowering tile installation costs.
Cons of Peel and Stick Tile
Of course, peel and stick tile has its limitations, so it won’t be right for every project.
Lower Durability
Peel and stick tile may not last as long as tile installed the traditional way, depending on the quality of the adhesive. If the adhesive breaks down, you could find your tiles starting to lift and peel around the edges.
Must Prep Properly
For a secure installation, you need to prep the surface for your peel and stick tile—and not every surface will be appropriate for this method. That means it may not be an option if the surface you want to tile is too textured or exposed to too much moisture.
Can Look Cheap
With some peel and stick tile options, it can be easy to tell that it’s not traditional tile, which can give your project a cheap look. That’s because peel and stick tile often has a lower profile and shallower depth than true, traditional tile.
Alternatives to Peel and Stick Tile
If peel and stick tile isn’t the right choice for your project, consider some other options:
Ceramic tile: Ceramic tile is longer lasting than peel and stick tile, although you may want to hire a professional to install it properly.
Laminate flooring: For floors, laminate or vinyl flooring can be an option that provides a relatively low-cost but durable alternative.
Carpet tile: Carpet tile can provide a removable, low-commitment alternative for flooring.
Wallpaper: For walls, wallpaper may be suitable as a replacement for peel and stick tile; when installed correctly, it can be long-lasting, and there are even removable options if that’s a consideration.
How to Decide if Peel and Stick Tile Is Right for You
Before you head online or to a big-box store to buy peel and stick tile, consider whether it’s the right choice for your project:
Are you tiling a high-traffic area? If so, peel and stick tile may not provide the durability you’re looking for.
Will the area be exposed to splashes and moisture? If so, that could affect the longevity of the adhesive, causing it to break down faster. Vinyl kitchen flooring may be a better option.
Is the surface level and even? You typically need a smooth, even surface for applying peel and stick tile.
Is appearance paramount? Some peel and stick tile is clearly not real tile, so make sure you enjoy the look of your chosen design before you commit.
If you need help, a local tile contractor can help you choose and install the best type of tile for your space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Peel and stick tile is often less durable than other types of tile. The tile’s durability depends largely on its materials, with low-end materials offering lower durability and shorter longevity. The surface you apply the tile to also must be cleaned and prepped appropriately for the tiles to stick well.
You can often find many types of peel and stick tile at big-box home improvement stores. Other places to shop for this type of material include home decor websites, other types of big-box stores, and even directly from the manufacturer. It’s a good idea to order a tile sample first to see how you like the look and feel before installing it.
You don’t need to grout peel and stick tile. The tiles are self-adhesive and can be placed directly next to each other, making grout unnecessary. However, if you like the look of grout, you can grout peel and stick tile like you would regular tile.