Peel and stick backsplashes provide a fast, affordable, and stylish way to update your kitchen or bathroom. Made from materials like vinyl, metal, or plastic, these backsplashes come on a roll or in tiles that can be easily peeled off and applied to your wall. With an array of colors, patterns, and textures to choose from, peel and stick backsplashes are a simple DIY solution to revamp your space. But where exactly can you find the best selection of peel and stick backsplashes? This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the places to buy peel and stick backsplash, things to look for when purchasing, pro tips for installation, and recommendations for top brands and stores.
Purchasing Peel and Stick Backsplash at Home Improvement Stores
Home improvement stores likely have the largest in-stock selection of peel and stick backsplash tiles and sheets. Stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards dedicate entire aisles to backsplash materials where you can peruse all the available options. Things to look for when buying peel and stick backsplash at home improvement stores:
Wide Range of Brands
Since these stores specialize in home remodeling products, they carry a diverse lineup of backsplash brands. Look for leading names like Art3d, Smart Tiles, MSI, York Wallcoverings, and NuWallpaper. This makes it easy to compare quality, styles, and prices in one location.
Tiles and Sheets
Home improvement stores stock both backsplash tiles and full sheets. Tiles allow you to create patterns and customize sizes, while sheets provide a seamless application. Consider which application will work best for your design plans.
Store Inventory
One drawback is that home improvement stores may not carry all the colors, patterns or textures available from a brand. Be prepared to compromise if they don’t have your first choice in stock. Keep in mind you can always order more options online and have them shipped to the store.
Pro Tips
When purchasing at home improvement stores:
- Ask associates if they can special order a material if you don’t see what you want. Most are happy to accommodate.
- Feel free to take home samples or open boxes to see the quality first-hand.
- Take measurements of your space so you purchase enough product to complete the job.
- Check for any available discounts, coupons, or rebates to save money.
Recommended Home Improvement Stores for Peel and Stick Backsplash
The three best home improvement chains for peel and stick backsplash selection are:
Home Depot – One of the largest selections with many name brands and exclusives. Frequently runs sales on backsplash.
Lowe’s – Matching Lowe’s exclusives along with all the top brands. Price match guarantee.
Menards – Great variety of patterns and laminate options. Carries unique brands not found elsewhere.
Finding Peel and Stick Backsplashes at Flooring Stores
In addition to home improvement stores, flooring retailers can be an excellent place to buy peel and stick backsplash. Stores like Floor & Decor, Lumber Liquidators, and Carpet One have expanded into offering all types of affordable and trendy wall materials. Benefits of purchasing backsplash at flooring stores:
Unique Options
Flooring stores look for the latest and most stylish materials to differentiate themselves. This means you can find unique peel and stick backsplash tiles and sheets not carried at the big box stores.
Specialization
Since flooring is their specialty, they offer a wider variety of laminates, metals, and stone-look backsplashes. Their product knowledge can be very helpful when selecting the right material.
Contractor Discounts
Many flooring stores offer discounts for contractors and tradespeople. If you’re a contractor or know someone who is, you may be able to save significantly on your backsplash purchase.
Pro Tips
When shopping at flooring stores for backsplash:
- Ask about contractor discounts and any promotions or sales.
- Carefully check the thickness – thinner peel and stick tiles are not as durable.
- Look for materials resistant to moisture, grease, and cleaners.
- Purchase a few extra pieces in case any become damaged during installation.
Top Flooring Stores for Peel and Stick Backsplash
Recommended flooring retailers for finding unique and affordable backsplash options:
Floor & Decor – Massive selection of all materials with great prices. Stores across the U.S.
Lumber Liquidators – More high-end woods, laminates and metals for elegant styles.
Carpet One – Large variety of vinyl and ceramic tiles. Helpful sales staff.
Ordering Peel and Stick Backsplash Online
From the convenience of home, every peel and stick backsplash brand and style is available online. Shopping online opens up more choices and customization options. However, there are some factors to weigh when purchasing backsplash tile or sheets online.
Wider Selection
You’ll find hundreds of backsplash patterns, colors, prints, and materials shopping online. Boutique brands not carried locally and custom printing is also available. This extensive selection allows you to get the exact look you want.
Order Samples
Most brands allow you to order samples so you can view and feel the quality before purchasing. Samples help ensure you get the right color, scale, and finish.
No Ability to See In Person
The biggest downside to ordering online is not being able to see, touch, and hold the product in person. Be sure to carefully read dimensions, specifications, and shipping details.
Potential for Damage
Since the backsplash will be shipped to you, there is a higher risk of tiles arriving broken or sheets getting bent. Inspect deliveries thoroughly and file claims for any damage.
Pro Tips
When ordering backsplash online:
- Order samples from multiple brands to compare quality.
- Read customer reviews about sizing, color accuracy, and durability.
- Calculate precisely how much you need to finish your space.
- Carefully measure your layout to create a grid for tile placement.
Recommended Online Retailers
Top online stores for peel and stick backsplash selection and customization:
Amazon – Massive selection, user reviews, and Prime shipping. Reliable returns.
Wayfair – Hundreds of brands along with their own lines. Virtual design tools.
Etsy – Unique handmade and custom backsplash available. Great for one-of-a-kind projects.
Overstock – Affordable pricing and frequent sales. Helpful customer service.
Home Depot – Same selection online for easy delivery or store pickup.
Things to Look for When Buying Peel and Stick Backsplash
With so many options, there are a few key factors to consider when selecting a peel and stick backsplash for purchase:
Material
Vinyl is the most popular for its low cost and easy application. Metals like tin, stainless, and aluminum provide a contemporary, industrial look. Choose stone, ceramic, or wood laminates for realistic visuals. Glass tile is sleek and modern.
Thickness
Thicker vinyl and laminates are more durable and long-lasting. Look for materials at least .5mm to 1mm thick. Thinner tiles can warp or peel over time.
Texture/Finish
Matte finishes hide flaws and are easy to clean. Metallics, grout lines, and glossy finishes add visual interest. Distressed textures have an antique charm. Get samples to view finishes closely.
Color/Design
Neutrals like white and gray work in any space, while bold colors make a statement. Prints and patterns add whimsical personality. Faux finishes replicate expensive materials like marble or travertine.
Water-Resistance
Bathrooms and kitchens need materials that won’t warp from moisture. Seek out vinyl and laminates with water- and stain-resistant protective coatings. Avoid paper-based products.
Fire Rating
Building codes require kitchen backsplash to be flame-retardant. Check for Class A or Class 1 Fire Rated products made of inorganic materials.
By evaluating these factors, you can select the ideal peel and stick backsplash for functionality, aesthetics, and budget. Carefully measuring your installation space is also key for purchasing the right amounts. With proper planning and preparation, you’ll be ready to tackle this easy, affordable DIY project.
Helpful Tips for Installing Peel and Stick Backsplash
One of the biggest appeals of peel and stick backsplash is the simplicity of installing it yourself without any special skills or tools required. However, there are some helpful techniques to know that will ensure your project goes smoothly:
Prepare the Surface
Remove any existing backsplash and thoroughly clean the wall area. Eliminate grease, soap scum, dust, or particles so the tiles adhere properly. Fill any uneven spots with spackle for a flat surface.
Map Your Layout
Measure the space and sketch a layout for the best visual results. For tiles, create a grid pattern. Account for outlets and fixtures. Plan for 1/8 inch spacing between tiles.
Cut Around Obstacles
Use a utility knife to cut any intricate shapes needed around outlets, pipes, or corners. circular saw with a finishing blade. Make small precision cuts rather than trying to fit whole tiles.
Set Bottom Row First
Start with the bottom row of tiles or sheet to establish your line. Use a level to ensure this row is perfectly straight before adhering.
Hold Tiles in Place
Once tile adhesive is applied to the back, hold each piece in place firmly for 30-60 seconds. This helps fully activate the adhesive and prevent slippage.
Stagger Seams
For tile applications, stagger the seams between rows rather than having them line up. This provides a more seamless pattern.
Use Spacers
Plastic tile spacers keep consistent 1/8 inch grout lines between tiles as you place them. Remove spacers before adhering the final row.
Finish Edges
If needed, install coordinating wall trim pieces along the top or sides for a finished look. Caulk along edges for waterproofing.
Clean Immediately
Wipe away any adhesive that gets on the surface right away using the manufacturer’s recommendations. This prevents residue or damage.
With the right products and some simple techniques, installing peel and stick backsplash is a DIY project anyone can master. Just take your time, follow instructions, and achieve beautiful results!
Top Brands of Peel and Stick Backsplash Tiles
When selecting a brand of peel and stick backsplash, you’ll want to look for options that offer styles you like along with durability and ease of installation. Here are some of the top-rated brands to consider:
Art3d
Overview: Art3d produces beautiful, realistic peel and stick backsplashes that are waterproof and simple to install. Their tiles feature textured finishes with grout lines that mimic high-end ceramic, marble, and stone.
Pros: Thick vinyl material, 1mm thick. Class A Fire Rated. Moisture and heat resistant. Easy to cut and shape. Generous size 12″ x 12″ tiles.
Cons: Limited color choices. Grout lines prone to dirt.
Best Use: Traditional kitchen designs on a budget.
Smart Tiles
Overview: Smart Tiles specializes in metallics that give kitchens and baths an ultra-modern, sleek look. Their peel and stick mosaics come in aluminum, stainless steel, and copper.
Pros: Realistic metal finishes. Small 1” x 2” mosaic format. Moisture resistant for backsplashes. Quick mosaic patterns.
Cons: Prone to scratches. Challenging for DIY install. Limited size options.
Best Use: Contemporary bathrooms or accent walls seeking an industrial feel.
NuWallpaper
Overview: With hundreds of patterns and colors, NuWallpaper’s vinyl backsplashes can match any design aesthetic. Their self-adhesive sheets go up seamlessly.
Pros: Peel and stick sheets for easy install. Formatted to exact measurements. Over 200 colors and patterns to choose from including metallics.
Cons: Not thick vinyl, can warp from moisture. Limited warranties.
Best Use: Rental properties, dorms, or temporary upgrades on a budget.
MSI
Overview: MSI offers a superior peel and stick product made from real cork that provides a stylish, eco-friendly backsplash option. Their tiles have antimicrobial protection.
Pros: Sustainable, naturally antimicrobial cork material. Class A fire rated. Easy installation without messy adhesives.
Cons: Only available in natural cork color. Higher price point.
Best Use: Environmentally-friendly kitchen backsplashes.
Recommended Brick and Mortar Stores for Peel and Stick Backsplash
In addition to big box home improvement stores, here are some surprising brick and mortar retailers that also offer peel and stick backsplash tiles:
Tile Stores
Specialized tile showrooms carry peel and stick tiles alongside their traditional tile offerings. Benefit from knowledgeable staff and ability to see product quality.
Recommend: The Tile Shop, Tile Bar, Bedrosians Tile & Stone
Flooring Stores
Many flooring stores have expanded into carrying backsplash tiles. Look for unique materials like vinyl nickel gap tiles and textured laminates.
Recommend: Carpet One, Lumber Liquidators, Floor & Decor
Hardware Stores
National chains like Ace Hardware and True Value can be a convenient local option for basic peel and stick tiles and popular brand selections.
Recommend: Ace Hardware, True Value, Do it Best
Home Décor Stores
Retailers like At Home, Kirkland’s, and Hobby Lobby sell backsplash tiles alongside other home accents and décor items.
Recommend: At Home, Kirkland’s, Hobby Lobby, Michael’s
Warehouse Clubs
Bulk retailers like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s sometimes stock peel and stick backsplash rolls and multi-pack sets of tiles.
Recommend: Costco, Sam’s Club, BJ’s Wholesale Club
So don’t limit your search to just big home improvement stores. Explore specialty retailers for unique finds and added convenience. With the right planning and preparation, you can find the perfect peel and stick backsplash for your next kitchen or bath upgrade.
FAQs about Purchasing Peel and Stick Backsplash
How much does peel and stick backsplash cost?
Prices depend on the material, brand, and size purchased. On average, expect to pay $5-$10 per square foot for quality vinyl, laminate, or metal peel and stick backsplash. High-end glass tiles can be $15-$30 per square foot.
What tools do I need to install peel and stick backsplash?
Basic tools like a tape measure, utility knife, level, spacers, and caulk gun are all that’s needed. A circular saw with a finishing blade can be helpful for intricate cuts. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Should I use adhesive or grout with peel and stick backsplash?
Peel and stick products are designed to go up without additional adhesive. Some brands include built-in or removable adhesive strips on each tile. Grout is generally not needed except for finishing perimeter edges.
How do I cut peel and stick backsplash?
Use a sharp utility knife and metal ruler. For straight cuts, score the material several times then snap along the line. Remove any jagged edges with sandpaper. Make curved, circular, or hole cuts with a finishing blade on a circular saw.
Can I apply peel and stick backsplash over existing tiles?
This is not recommended. Peel and stick adheres best over a smooth, flat paint or drywall surface. Existing tiles need to be fully removed down to the wall surface for proper application.
Is peel and stick waterproof for kitchen backsplash?
Many vinyl and laminate options are waterproof or water-resistant when properly sealed along edges and seams. However, paper-based products should be avoided near sinks and stoves. Always check product specifications.
Conclusion
Revamping your backsplash with stylish peel and stick tiles or sheets is an easy, affordable DIY upgrade. With a little planning and preparation, you can find the perfect products at your local home improvement store, flooring retailer, or online. Focus on quality materials resistant to moisture, grease, and flame. Smart Tiles, NuWallpaper, and Art3d are leading brands known for style and durability. Set aside a weekend for a simple, peel and stick installation. In just a day, you can change the entire look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom. With this comprehensive guide, you now have all the information on where to buy peel and stick backsplash to create the fresh new backsplash design you’ve been envisioning.