What to Know About Peel-and-Stick Backsplash Tile

The ease of peeling off some backing to slap up a little tile behind the sink is a main reason why peel-and-stick backsplash tile is a popular choice for homeowners. During our kitchen and bath remodels, we’re often tempted to go that route to skip the hassle of mortar and grout.

“Peel-and-stick backsplash offers a new look to the space without having to break the bank to get it,” says Josh Rudin, owner of ASAP Restoration in Tempe, Arizona. “It’s also a great DIY approach because it doesn’t require you to break into walls or have special skills.”

Even so, ultimately, on our projects, we almost always choose traditional tile for a host of reasons. If you’re considering peel-and-stick backsplash tile, here’s what to consider, plus how to cut and install it.

What Is Peel-and-Stick Backsplash Tile?

Peel-and-stick backsplash tiles are sheets or squares with tile on one side and adhesive on the other. They are used in place of traditional mortar-and-grout wall tiles, particularly behind sinks and counters, to enhance the look of a room and protect paint and drywall from water and spills. The tiles can be made of vinyl, ceramic, glass, metal or composites.

“They are easy, fast, affordable and low-maintenance,” says Rotem Eylor, founder of Republic Floor. “It’s a fairly simple way to upgrade any space, but you usually see them in kitchens. There are different designs like Morocco, chevron, etc.”

How long does peel-and-stick backsplash tile last?

When installed and maintained properly, peel-and-stick backsplash tile can last from five to 20 years, but its life will be much shorter in high-water or high-heat areas.

“It won’t hold up through repeated splashes, but it will last long enough to give you some protection and offer a new look without having to fully commit to any one style completely,” says Rudin. “If you get more than a year out of them, then they’ve done their job.”

Can you put peel-and-stick backsplash tile over existing tile?

Yes, you can put peel-and-stick backsplash tile over existing tile, but it’s not ideal. Imperfect or uneven surfaces can cause it to stick poorly or look askew. Additionally, gaps and cracks in the old tile can allow airflow, water and vapor to get behind the new backsplash and inadvertently cause mold, says Rudin.

Is peel-and-stick backsplash tile removable?

Yes and no. Some peel-and-stick backsplash tile products are considered removable, and others are permanent. The backing on removable versions has the consistency of painters tape, whereas the permanent ones are more like duct tape, says Rudin.

According to Erin Hybart, a real estate expert and blogger, removable ones are a great option for renters who want a temporary custom look.

How Much Does Peel-and-Stick Backsplash Tile Cost?

The cost of peel-and-stick backsplash tile varies from $0.15 per square foot to $30, but often lands around the $1 to $3 range.

“The higher-end versions are a good solution for aesthetics, but they don’t offer much in the way of protection from water, which is the purpose of a backsplash,” says Rudin.

Peel-and-Stick Backsplash Tile Pros and Cons

Peel and stick backsplashes are great for a quick fix or home upgrade. “It is affordable, easy to install, and less messy as compared to traditional tiles,” says Jay Sanders, licensed contractor and owner of Maryland Contractors. But, they also have some downsides.

Pros

• Affordable
• Good for quick renovations
• Easy to install, so good for DIYers with no tile/grout skills
• Wide array of designs to choose from

Cons

• Doesn’t last as long as traditional tile
• Products with stronger adhesives are difficult to remove
• Doesn’t stick well to or look good on uneven surfaces
• Poor choice in high-heat and wet areas, such as stoves or shower sinks

“The sticky backer to each tile can hold its own for a long time, but nothing will replace the real thing,” says Rudin. Peel and stick backsplash tiles “also have a stigma, and give off an inauthentic vibe to anyone who knows what real backsplash should look and feel like.”

How To Cut Peel-and-Stick Backsplash Tile

First, line up the tile with where it will be placed on the wall to take measurements and mark where it needs to be cut.

“If for some reason you can’t get into the space easily, you can always make a template out of tape and cardboard, then transpose it onto the front of the tile before making the cuts of whatever you’ve outlined,” says Rudin.

Vinyl Tiles

For vinyl tiles, usually, a pair of strong scissors or a sharp utility knife is enough to cut through the sheet. “Just lay it on a flat surface and use a straight edge to align measurements and cut,” says Eylor.

Ceramic and Glass Tiles

To cut ceramic or glass peel-and-stick tiles, use an angle grinder with a diamond cutting wheel or a wet saw. If the tile pattern allows, for example, if it is in rows, you can also use a utility knife to cut any non-vinyl peel-and-stick tile to size. However, you’ll still need a grinder to trim the ends.

Metal Tiles

To cut metal-clad tiles, use an angle grinder outfitted with an abrasive wheel.

How to Apply Peel-and-Stick Backsplash Tile

If you’re applying it over existing tile, first make sure the surface is even, level and smooth, and that the grout lines are filled and intact. Also, lightly sand off any gloss on the old tile.

“Proper planning and surface prep ensures better adhesion and longer life,” says Hybart. “The first time I used it, I did not use the proper adhesive, but I quickly corrected that issue by using a stronger one.”

Then, whether it’s going over existing tile or straight onto the wall:

• Measure the space, using a straight edge, and cut the tile to fit.
• Clean and dry the area where you intend to stick it.
• Peel off the backing.
• Press it in place.

“Pro-tip: cut slightly larger than needed, then you can trim the excess later,” says Sanders.

About the Experts

• Josh Rudin is the owner of ASAP Restoration in Tempe Arizona. He started the company as a one-man operation in 2008, and today it has grown into one of the city’s top disaster mitigation specialists.
• Rotem Eylor is an entrepreneur and hands-on CEO and founder of Republic Floor, a top 10 US manufacturer and distributor of hard surfaces. He is also a member of the Forbes Business Council.
• Jay Sanders, a licensed contractor based in Baltimore. He owns Maryland Contractor and has been working in construction for more than a decade.
• Erin Hybart is a Louisiana Realtor, ADU and tiny house enthusiast, affordable housing advocate, house flipper and blogger.