How to Apply Vinyl Tiles as a Backsplash

Vinyl floor tiles are quickly becoming a popular item amongst do-it-yourself homeowners. Not only do these self-adhesive tiles install in a very straightforward manner, but they are also available in a wide array of colors, styles and sizes to choose from. With these characteristics in mind, many people are beginning to use these flexible tiles in new ways, including on the kitchen backsplash. You can lay vinyl tiles in this dry-wall application, lending a lot of style to your kitchen design.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Vinyl tile cutter
• Sandpaper
• Rolling pin

Instructions

1. Measure the area on the kitchen walls where you want the vinyl tiles to be installed. Mark off an identically sized area on a nearby flat surface to lay the tiles out in a trial fit. Most backsplashes measure 18 inches in height, and many vinyl tiles measure 12 inches; lay out the tiles to determine how and where you will make your cuts to best suit the kitchen design.

2. Lightly sand down the kitchen wall. Vinyl tiles show every bump behind them, so smooth out any wall texture for a smooth installation.

3. Cut your vinyl tiles to fit the installation with a vinyl tile cutter. Operate the cutter like a paper cutter; place the vinyl tiles on the plate and depress the handle smoothly to cut.

4. Remove the backing from the tiles and press them on the wall from the bottom edge of the tile, smoothing up to the top. Install the tiles in the same design you laid out on the flat surface, and in the same order for consistency.

5. Roll a rolling pin firmly over the backsplash to help adhere the adhesive to the wall and to ensure a long life for your backsplash.

References

• I Love India: Kitchen Backsplash Tiles
• Creative Homemaking: Getting Creative With Peel and Stick Tile
• The Family Handyman: How to Lay a Vinyl Tile Floor