Vinyl flooring has become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom backsplashes in recent years. With its durability, low maintenance, and wide range of styles, using vinyl flooring on your backsplash can be an excellent choice. This article will explore the pros and cons of using vinyl flooring as a backsplash and provide tips on how to install it successfully.
What is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring, also known as resilient flooring, is a synthetic polymer material made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It comes in sheets or tiles and is available in a wide variety of colors, textures, and patterns to mimic natural materials like wood, stone, and ceramic tile.
The key benefits of vinyl flooring are that it is:
- Durable – Vinyl is resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture. It can withstand heavy foot traffic.
- Low Maintenance – Vinyl requires no waxing or special cleaners. Just sweep and mop occasionally.
- Affordable – Vinyl flooring is typically cheaper than many other flooring options.
- Versatile – It comes in many styles to match any decor.
These qualities make vinyl a practical and popular choice for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and beyond. In recent years, homeowners have also been using it as an alternative to traditional tile backsplashes.
Pros of Using Vinyl Flooring as Backsplash
Installing vinyl flooring on your backsplash has some great advantages:
1. Low Cost
Vinyl sheets and tiles are far less expensive than ceramic or stone tiles. Pricing can range from $1-5 per square foot on average. This can lead to big savings, especially when covering a large backsplash area behind a stove or sink.
2. Easy Maintenance
Vinyl resists dirt, grease, and moisture. Just use soap and water for routine cleaning. It does not require sealing or special cleaners like natural stone. Vinyl also resists cracking and chipping like tile.
3. Easy Installation
Vinyl sheets can be cut to size and applied directly over existing surfaces with adhesive. The sheets are thicker than backsplash tiles, so no backing is required. Vinyl tiles use peel-and-stick installation for a seamless look. Fewer materials and less labor make vinyl backsplash projects faster and simpler for DIYers.
4. Seamless Look
With no grout lines, vinyl backsplashes have a sleek, contemporary look. The material can mimic patterns and textures like subway tile, marble, stone, and wood grain for a customized finish.
5. Moisture and Mold Resistance
The waterproof vinyl material prevents moisture damage or mold growth in kitchens and bathrooms. This makes it ideal for wet areas like behind sinks.
6. Variety of Looks
From solid colors and abstract patterns to faux finishes, vinyl comes in endless options to match your decor. Coordinating vinyl flooring and backsplash is an easy way to pull a room together.
7. Durability
Vinyl stands up well to heavy use, stains, nicks, and scratches. It retains its look much longer than paint, needing less frequent replacement. The material is designed for high-traffic spaces like kitchens.
Cons of Using Vinyl Flooring as Backsplash
While vinyl flooring has its advantages as a backsplash, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:
1. Less Authentic Look
Some homeowners feel that vinyl lacks the elegance and authenticity of real tile, stone, or stainless steel backsplashes. It may be viewed as a lower-end material.
2. Vulnerable to Heat
Vinyl can scorch, melt, or discolor if pots and pans directly contact the backsplash or if temperatures exceed 150°F. Care must be taken especially behind stoves. Using heat shields or maintaining a small gap is wise.
3. Fewer Style Options
Vinyl selections are not as vast as the varieties of backsplash tile on the market. There are fewer sizes, shapes, colors and textures to choose from, limiting customization and design capabilities.
4. Prone to Scratches
Though durable, vinyl can still be scratched by knives, sharp objects or abrasive cleaners. Stay away from scouring pads. Minor scratches can be buffed but deeper ones are permanent.
5. Environmental Concerns
PVC vinyl contains chemicals some homeowners wish to avoid. However, many leading vinyl flooring brands now use recycled materials and processes that are more eco-friendly than in the past.
6. May Need Replacement Sooner
On average, vinyl may need replacement after around 15 years. Though durable, it does not last nearly as long as some stone, metal, or glass backsplash options which can endure for 50+ years.
Tips for Installing Vinyl Backsplash
If you decide to install vinyl flooring as your kitchen or bathroom backsplash, follow these tips for success:
Choose the Right Vinyl
Opt for commercial-grade vinyl flooring rather than cushioned vinyl intended for whole-room flooring only. The thicker wear layer and backing will better withstand moisture, heat, and damage in backsplash use.
Prepare the Surface
The backsplash area must be smooth, clean, and dry for proper vinyl application. Remove any old backsplash and paint then sand or fill any imperfections for a flat surface.
Cut Precisely
Use a sharp utility knife and metal ruler to cut sheets or tiles to fit your backsplash area accurately. Leave a 1/8″ gap between the vinyl and countertops or cabinets for expansion.
Follow Adhesive Recommendations
Choose the adhesive type specified by the vinyl manufacturer and carefully follow instructions for amount and drying time before applying vinyl sheets to the wall.
Use a Roller
After applying adhesive, firmly roll the entire vinyl surface with a small hand roller to remove any air pockets between the vinyl and wall surface. This prevents bubbling.
Seal Edges
Seal all vinyl edges and seams with clear silicone caulk to prevent moisture ingress that could cause loosening or curling.
Limit direct Heat Exposure
Leave a small gap between vinyl backsplash and heat sources. Consider adding trim or other heat protection to avoid melting.
With proper product selection and installation, a vinyl backsplash can provide a budget-friendly, stylish, and practical option for your home. Take care to limit direct heat exposure and learn to clean vinyl safely to maximize longevity. With some smart design choices, vinyl can be a contemporary, functional backsplash solution.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Vinyl as Backsplash
Many homeowners considering vinyl backsplashes have some common questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
Can you put vinyl flooring on the wall?
Yes, vinyl flooring can be installed directly on wall surfaces to function as a backsplash. Use peel-and stick vinyl tiles or apply vinyl sheets with adhesive just as you would install vinyl flooring. Be sure to use vinyl designed for high-moisture areas.
What kind of adhesive do you use for vinyl backsplash?
Always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations. Typically, latex or acrylic-based adhesives work well for bonding vinyl sheets to backsplash surfaces. Avoid solvent-based adhesives which can cause vinyl to curl or bubble.
Should you caulk vinyl backsplash?
Caulking is highly recommended to seal all edges and gaps where the vinyl backsplash meets countertops, cabinets, or walls. Use a flexible, mold-resistant silicone caulk to prevent water damage. Caulk should also be used around outlets or fixtures.
Can you put vinyl backsplash in a bathroom?
Vinyl makes an excellent moisture-resistant backsplash choice for bathrooms. Its seamless, waterproof surface prevents water damage and resists mold and mildew growth in humid areas around sinks and tubs. A vinyl backsplash is a great option for bathrooms.
Does vinyl backsplash need to be sealed?
Vinyl does not require any special sealing, unlike porous tile or grouted areas. The solid vinyl surface prevents moisture penetration so no sealant is necessary. Ensure edges are well-caulked for water protection.
Can you use contact paper as a backsplash?
Adhesive-backed contact paper is not recommended as a backsplash. It is thinner than vinyl sheets, more prone to peeling, and does not provide a seamless look. Contact paper lacks durability for a high-moisture, heavy-use backsplash area. Vinyl flooring is the better choice.
Is peel and stick vinyl waterproof?
Most peel-and-stick vinyl tiles or sheets are waterproof and designed for wet areas. The vinyl surface repels water while the adhesive backing bonds the tiles solidly together. A quality peel-stick vinyl backsplash resists moisture damage in kitchens and bathrooms.
Can I use leftover vinyl flooring as a backsplash?
Leftover vinyl flooring planks or tiles can be applied to walls as a backsplash. Use the coordinating adhesive or, for peel-and stick tiles, simply trim to size and stick up. This is a budget-friendly way to repurpose extra flooring. Just ensure the vinyl is suitably durable.
Does vinyl backsplash go all the way to ceiling?
A full backsplash goes from counter to ceiling, but vinyl can also be applied partially up the wall. Many backsplashes stop at 4-5 feet high or just below upper cabinets. The height depends on your personal preference and design. You can do full height or partial.
Final Thoughts
Installing vinyl flooring as a backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom provides a streamlined, cost-effective design option. Waterproof vinyl resists damage and moisture while offering many styles to match your space. With proper prep and installation, vinyl backsplashes perform well for years with minimal upkeep required. Just take care to limit direct heat exposure from stoves or other appliances.
With smart product selection and careful installation, vinyl can serve as a contemporary, functional, and budget-friendly backsplash solution. Before committing, weigh the pros and cons carefully against your own decor needs, design tastes, and expectations for longevity. If vinyl flooring fits your goals for affordability and fuss-free maintenance, it can make an excellent choice for backsplash applications.