Vinyl flooring has become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects in recent years. Its affordable price point, easy maintenance, and wide variety of colors and patterns make it an attractive choice for many homeowners. Some people consider using vinyl flooring on their backsplash as well, but is this a good idea? Here is a detailed overview of the pros and cons of using vinyl flooring as a kitchen or bathroom backsplash.
What Is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring, also known as vinyl plank flooring, is a resilient flooring product made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and plasticizers. The top wear layer is a clear vinyl film with a printed décor layer underneath. The core layer is made from limestone or polyvinyl chloride.
There are two main types of vinyl flooring:
- Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) – This has a thicker wear layer and looks more realistic than sheet vinyl. LVP clicks together like laminate flooring and is completely waterproof.
- Sheet vinyl – This comes in rolled sheets, typically 6 or 12 feet wide. The wear layer is thinner than LVP. Sheet vinyl must be professionally installed.
Vinyl flooring is designed for high-traffic areas and is extremely durable, scratch-resistant, and waterproof. It’s a great choice for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms. The planks snap together easily for DIY installation.
Pros Of Using Vinyl Flooring As A Backsplash
Here are some potential benefits of using vinyl flooring on your backsplash:
Waterproof
Vinyl flooring is 100% waterproof, so it can stand up to splashes and spills with no problem. Tile backsplashes can absorb water over time and need re-grouting. Vinyl requires no special maintenance.
Affordable
Good quality vinyl plank flooring costs $2-5 per square foot installed. Tile costs $5-50 per square foot installed. Vinyl is a budget-friendly backsplash solution.
Easy Installation
Peel-and-stick vinyl tiles make DIY installation simple. Just measure, cut, peel, and stick. No need for thinset mortar or grout. Floating vinyl planks snap together with no glue required.
Stylish Looks
Vinyl plank flooring is available in wood looks, stone and tile patterns, and solid colors. There are endless options to match any kitchen or bath décor.
Durable
The top vinyl wear layer is scratch and stain-resistant. It’s designed to hold up to heavy foot traffic for up to 25 years. Vinyl won’t crack or degrade like some tile backsplashes.
Low Maintenance
Vinyl requires no sealing or grouting. Just wipe clean with soap and water as needed. Its durable surface resists most stains.
Cons Of Using Vinyl Flooring As A Backsplash
However, there are also some potential downsides to be aware of:
Not Heat Resistant
Vinyl flooring can melt or burn if exposed to direct high heat. Cooking splatter or touching hot pans could damage the vinyl.
Moisture Damage Over Time
Constant exposure to high humidity above kitchen stoves may cause vinyl planks to swell and warp over many years. Proper ventilation is key.
Difficult to Remove
Peel-and-stick vinyl tiles are not designed for easy removal. They leave adhesive residue behind that is tough to clean off.
Less Visually Appealing
Some people feel that vinyl lacks the aesthetic visual appeal of real ceramic tile, natural stone, glass, or metal backsplashes.
Potential Off-Gassing
Some vinyl flooring emits small amounts of VOCs over time. This may bother those sensitive to chemical odors.
Won’t Increase Home Value
Upscale tile or stone backsplashes add value for resale. Vinyl is unlikely to increase home value like higher end materials.
Best Practices for Using Vinyl Flooring as a Backsplash
If you decide to use vinyl flooring on your backsplash, here are some tips:
- Choose thicker wear layer planks for greater durability and longevity.
- Install proper ventilation over stoves to prevent heat and moisture damage.
- Use peel-and-stick vinyl tiles rather than planks for easier removal later on.
- Select wood look vinyl planks to mimic a shiplap wooden backsplash aesthetic.
- Clean with mild soap and water only. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the vinyl.
- Use caulk to seal all edges and around the perimeter for a waterproof installation.
Conclusion
Vinyl flooring can technically be installed as a backsplash, but it has some limitations. Make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding. For a budget kitchen update, vinyl could be a decent temporary solution. But for a forever home remodel, higher end backsplash materials may be worth the extra investment. Consider your needs, budget, and design goals before choosing vinyl flooring as a backsplash. With proper precautions, vinyl can be a functional, affordable, and stylish backsplash option in the right situations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Vinyl Flooring As a Backsplash
Can I use vinyl flooring on my kitchen backsplash?
Yes, you can install vinyl flooring or vinyl peel-and-stick tiles on your kitchen backsplash. Vinyl is waterproof and affordable, but may not withstand heat or humidity as well as ceramic tile.
What are the best types of vinyl flooring for a backsplash?
Luxury vinyl planks or tiles with a thicker wear layer are best for backsplashes. Look for waterproof, scratch-resistant vinyl rated for kitchens.
Should I use vinyl planks or vinyl tiles for my backsplash?
Vinyl tiles are better since they allow for easier removal. Vinyl planks are snapped together so they may damage the wall when removing later on.
What’s the best way to install vinyl flooring as a backsplash?
Carefully measure and cut planks or tiles to fit. Peel off backing and press firmly onto cleaned wall surface. Use caulk around edges for waterproofing.
Can I use vinyl flooring behind my stove as a backsplash?
Vinyl may discolor or warp from stove heat over time. Proper ventilation is key. Ceramic tile is more heat-resistant.
Is vinyl flooring a good choice for bathroom backsplashes?
Yes, vinyl works well in humid bathroom areas. The waterproof surface withstands splashes and steam with no issues. Easy maintenance too.
Does vinyl flooring look good as a backsplash?
It depends on your tastes. Vinyl comes in many colors and patterns mimicking tile, wood, and stone. But some feel real materials have a more upscale look.
Is vinyl flooring cheaper than a tile backsplash?
Yes, good quality vinyl flooring costs $2-5 per square foot installed compared to tile at $5-50 per square foot installed. Vinyl is the budget-friendly option.
Can I install vinyl flooring backsplash myself?
Yes, vinyl planks and peel-and-stick tiles allow for easy DIY installation. Just clean the wall, measure, cut, peel, and press onto the surface.
How do I clean vinyl backsplash flooring?
Use a soft cloth with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasives. Vinegar and water works to remove hard water stains. Wipe spills up quickly.