How to Install a Peel-and-Stick Backsplash

If you are looking for a cost-saving project that is sure to add charm to your decor then look no further than a peel-and-stick backsplash. They are cost-saving, make your walls easier to clean, instantly update your kitchen or bathroom, and can even be renter-friendly. What’s not to love?

Let Your Unique Sense of Style Shine

A backsplash can significantly transform the appearance of any room. You can let your own sense of style and your diverse taste preferences guide you when choosing the perfect peel-and-stick backsplash. They come in a wide array of colors and design choices such as mosaic tiles, painted artistic squares, faux metal patterns, and even simple laminate designs. Take the color of your cabinets and walls into consideration when you are narrowing down your choices to ensure that your new backsplash fits in seamlessly with your room. We love this simple, classic white subway tile design.

Where to Apply a Peel-and-Stick Backsplash

A peel-and-stick backsplash can be applied in the kitchen behind the counter’s edge along the wall and behind the kitchen sink. Many people also place a backsplash behind a stovetop and just below an exhaust fan or microwave. Backsplashes also look good in the bathroom behind bathroom sinks. A colorful backsplash may even be installed in the laundry room behind the washer and dryer. Backsplashes are a great addition to any room in your home with running water.

Tools Needed:

• tape measure
• degreasing cleaner
• level
• box cutter
• float
• grout (for more permanent installation)

How to Install a Peel-and-Stick Backsplash

1. Remove any outlet covers that may be in an area that you plan to cover with the peel-and-stick backsplash. Set them aside for later.
2. Measure the area where you want to place the backsplash. If you want to install a backsplash in the kitchen then measure the area above the kitchen counter to the bottom of the kitchen cabinet. To apply a backsplash above the stovetop you will need to measure from the top rim of the stovetop to the bottom of the exhaust fan or microwave. In the bathroom or laundry room, determine the area you want to cover with the backsplash and measure the area’s height and width.
3. Clean the wall thoroughly using a household cleaner that removes greasy buildup. All oils and grease need to be completely removed so the adhesive sticks. Allow the surface to dry.
4. If you are affixing the backsplash over an electrical outlet be sure to measure and cut out the electrical outlet space.
5. Peel away half of the adhesive backing from the backsplash. Install the backsplash from left to right and start at the bottom if you are installing a tile peel-and-stick backsplash.
6. Stick the peeled away area of the backsplash to the wall. Do not apply pressure. If applying tiles, apply the first row and then move on to the next row above the first row. Only apply pressure to the backsplash when you are sure that it has lined up correctly and looks perfect. Peel-and-stick backsplashes are typically designed to be removed one or two times from a surface if needed to make necessary adjustments. However, if you apply excessive pressure when first applying the backsplash it will make removal for realignment almost impossible.

How to Grout A Peel-and-Stick Backsplash

Metal peel-and-stick backsplashes do not require grouting. Some mosaic and tile peel and stick backsplashes also have faux grout and do not require any additional grouting steps. However, many peel-and-stick tiles do not have grout so after affixing the adhesive tiles to the wall’s surface you will need to take additional steps to grout the backsplash and complete the look.

1. Open the grout bag and apply the grout to the surface of the float. Some grout is sold pre-mixed and other types of grout must be mixed with water. Follow the instructions on the grout if it requires pre-mixing.
2. Hold the float at a 45-degree angle and run the float with the grout diagonally across the surface of the tile.
3. Push the grout into the crevices of the tile using the float. The joints of the tile should be completely filled with grout.
4. Cover the entire backsplash with the grout making sure to fill all the joints. Allow the grout to dry. Depending on the humidity and the room temperature the grout may dry in an hour or several hours. Generally, most grout manufacturers provide dry time estimates on their labels.
5. Rub away the dried excess grout from the surface of the tiles using a damp sponge. Continue to clean away all of the grout from the surface of the tiles.
6. Reinstall all outlet covers using a screwdriver over the newly installed backsplash.

Additional Tips

• If you are not installing the backsplash beneath a cabinet then you will want to use a level and draw a chalk line to guarantee alignment and make sure that the backsplash is affixed to the wall level.
• When installing a peel-and-stick mosaic tile backsplash you should always work to ensure that the grout lines correctly line up to create the perfect, professional appearance that you seek.