Things to Weigh Before Installing Peel and Stick Floor Tiles: Pros and Cons

Since flooring has traditionally been a significant investment, it's no surprise that alternatives like peel and stick tiles have emerged, offering a fresh aesthetic with less cost and effort. These tiles are applied over your existing flooring, similar to the way wallpaper is installed.

But is it the quick solution you've been hoping for, or merely a temporary fix? The answer largely depends on your budget, available space, and personal preferences. To assist in your decision, here's what you can expect from peel and stick flooring.

Advantages of Peel and Stick Flooring

Like many DIY home improvement options, peel and stick flooring has both benefits and drawbacks. Here are some of the pros and cons of using this type of flooring.

1. Minimal Setup Required

Vinyl peel and stick flooring doesn't require an underlayment, so no extra preparation is necessary before installing the tiles. Just peel off the backing and stick them down! This flooring type is favored not only for its affordability but also for its straightforward installation, allowing you to do it yourself without needing professional assistance.

2. Simple Installation

Peel and stick flooring is crafted from vinyl, with a thickness of about 0.3 to 0.5 millimeters (substantially thicker than wallpaper). It's also known as vinyl plank flooring, vinyl tiles, or peel and stick tiles. It's incredibly easy to apply and adheres to most subfloor surfaces.

Peel and stick tiles are compatible with various floor types, including concrete, plywood, tile, and vinyl, depending on the product. Some peel and stick varieties can even be used over linoleum, but this is not always the case. Always verify the product details to ensure compatibility with your chosen materials, as different peel and stick options may vary.

3. Wide Range of Styles

Vinyl flooring has evolved significantly from the dated sheet vinyl used in old kitchens and bathrooms. Today, peel and stick vinyl flooring can mimic the appearance of wood planks or stone tiles, offering options that suit any design aesthetic.

"While you may remember the laminate flooring from years ago—and perhaps not fondly—modern peel and stick flooring offers an extensive selection of designs, and serves as an affordable substitute for engineered or luxury flooring products," says Tamara Day, interior designer and host of HGTV's Bargain Mansions.

4. Budget-Friendly

The price of peel and stick flooring can range from $1 to $5 per square foot, so covering a 200-square foot area could cost anywhere between $200 and $1000. Installing the flooring yourself can save you money, with Day mentioning that it’s surprisingly simple to do.

5. Durable

Peel and stick flooring typically lasts between five and 25 years on average. However, its longevity largely depends on factors like the quality of installation, the amount of foot traffic it receives, and whether it's frequently exposed to moisture.

Proper installation is key, ensuring the subfloor is smooth and in excellent condition before placing the peel and stick planks. "In low-traffic areas, the flooring will last much longer compared to high-traffic zones, but even in busy spaces, well-installed floors can endure for many years," says Tamara Day.

6. Simple to Remove

When it's time to upgrade your floors or you just want to change up the look, removing peel and stick flooring is easy for a few key reasons:

• No need for tools or special solvents. The adhesive backing on peel-and-stick floors is designed to be easily removed. You should be able to remove the flooring without any tools (beyond a basic utility or putty knife) or special solvents.
• Minimal residue. High-quality peel-and-stick tiles shouldn't leave much adhesive residue behind. While there is likely to be some residue, there shouldn't be the need for extensive cleaning or scraping.
• Quick process. Because the tiles of a peel-and-stick floor are typically smaller and lighter, you can quickly lift and remove them without extreme effort or a big time commitment. Depending on how much flooring you have, it should only take a minutes to remove (at least for small sections).
• Easy disposal. Peel-and-stick floor tiles are lightweight and can be easily disposed of without the need for special handling or large waste containers. You can toss them out in your house and take them out with your regular garbage.

Cons of Peel and Stick Flooring

While there are tons of benefits to using peel and stick flooring, it's not necessarily the best solution for everyone.

Not a Long-Term Solution

Peel and stick flooring is especially suitable for spaces where you're seeking a temporary solution or areas where you don't want to make a large financial commitment just yet. "The material is surprisingly durable and moderately resistant to water," says Day.

"For example, I think it's a great choice for a children's room or a flexible space. These vinyl tiles are simple to install and can be easily removed later on, so you can enjoy them while the kids are young and then upgrade to something more sophisticated as they grow out of a playroom," Day adds.

Peel and stick flooring can also be a good option for a guest room, laundry room, or walk-in closet. However, it's not the best long-term investment if you're considering a higher-quality flooring solution in the future.

Challenging for High-Traffic and Large Areas

Day suggests steering clear of using peel and stick flooring in extremely high-traffic areas like living rooms or entryways. For larger spaces, a more durable flooring option might be better, as the adhesive may weaken over time, causing the tiles to shift or curl. Additionally, bubbles or inconsistencies in the adhesion can lead to gaps or uneven surfaces, which could pose tripping risks.

Some individuals choose to lay vinyl plank flooring throughout their home and have had positive results, but it may not be the best choice for larger spaces.

Not Suitable for Moist Areas

Peel-and-stick flooring can potentially damage certain subfloors as it may trap moisture underneath, leading to mold growth. This is why Day advises steering clear of high-moisture areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens. It's important to avoid humid conditions and to promptly clean up any spills before they have a chance to seep into the seams.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do you clean peel and stick flooring?

  Begin by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove any dirt and debris. After that, mop the peel and stick flooring with warm water and a mild detergent. (Be sure the mop is only damp, not soaked, to avoid damaging the adhesive.) You can also spot clean tough stains with a gentle cleaner. Make sure to dry the floor with a clean rag to prevent mold buildup.

  Learn More: How to Clean Vinyl Plank Floors
• Can I install peel and stick flooring by myself?

  Yes, peel and stick flooring is designed to be user-friendly and can likely be installed by yourself. The process includes measuring and cutting the flooring to fit your space, then peeling off the backing and pressing the tiles into place. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for preparing the surface, and take your time to avoid air bubbles or misalignment.

• Does peel and stick tile require grouting?

  Generally, peel and stick tile floors do not require grout. The tiles fit tightly together, which reduces the need for grout between them. This makes peel and stick floors easier to apply and maintain. However, if you prefer the look, you can choose to grout the tiles for aesthetic reasons.