Peel and Stick Flooring: 5 Myths Debunked

Ari Ziskin - March 20, 2016 29

Peel and stick flooring is one of the most misunderstood flooring options on the market. It is not just placing stickers on your floor. Self-adhesive floor tiles come with a high-quality adhesive, backing a sturdy carpet tile, vinyl tile, or vinyl plank. Peel and stick floor tile has had its fair share of myths throughout the years, and that has discouraged people from buying it. But the truth is a peel and stick floor is a great way to quickly and easily transform your floor without spending a lot of money. When it comes to peel and stick flooring, we know our stuff. So, in this guide, we’re debunking five common myths that give it a bad reputation. <h2>Myth 1: Peel and Stick Flooring Does Not Stick</h2> <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/vinyl/planks/envee-wood-vinyl-plank.html?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="alignnone wp-image-14233" src="https://www.flooringinc.com/media/magefan_blog/2016/03/Envee-Tacky-Back-Vinyl-Planks.jpeg" alt="Envee Tacky Back Vinyl Planks" width="630" height="414" /></a> <h3>Expert Opinion: False</h3> Many peel and stick vinyl tiles, carpet tiles, and vinyl planks have a high-quality adhesive that won’t peel up at the first sign of heavy traffic. For example, <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/vinyl/planks/envee-wood-vinyl-plank.html?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Envee Tacky Back Vinyl Plank</a> flooring comes with patented grip layer backing that ensures a strong hold, even in commercial spaces like restaurants, retail shops, and office buildings. If you want more proof, check out this strength test: <iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9SUb9gYywk4&ab_channel=FlooringInc" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Pro Tip: To ensure the best grip on your floor, make sure that your subfloor is clean and dry, and free of any dust before you begin installation. Any dirt on your floor will reduce the bond of the adhesive, which could cause it to peel up. <h2>Myth 2: Peel and Stick Flooring Isn’t Durable</h2> <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/carpet/tiles/crochet-carpet-tile.html?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="alignnone wp-image-14232" src="https://www.flooringinc.com/media/magefan_blog/2016/03/Weave-Carpet-Tiles.jpeg" alt="Weave Carpet Tiles" width="630" height="414" /></a> <h3>Expert Opinion: Mostly False</h3> Some people assume that because peel and stick flooring is so easy to install, it must not last long, but that’s not the case. Peel and stick floors can last a long time, depending on the type you buy. For example, peel and stick carpet is very durable. You can find many options <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/carpet/tile/peel-and-stick-carpet-tiles.html#!utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths&filter=838" target="_blank" rel="noopener">designed for heavy traffic</a> and commercial use. Peel and stick vinyl floor tile also offers <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/vinyl/tiles/envee-stone-vinyl-tiles.html?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths" target="_blank" rel="noopener">commercial-grade options</a>. Still, this myth has a small bit of truth to it. Specifically, some decorative vinyl tiles are more like vinyl stickers, and they are designed for temporary use as flooring for renters or as wall decor. These tiles may start to show some wear if you use them for a long time. Pro Tip: If you want to make sure you find flooring that will last, check out our peel and stick options designed for heavy traffic. We offer durable <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/carpet/tile/peel-and-stick-carpet-tiles.html#!utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths&filter=838" target="_blank" rel="noopener">carpet tiles</a>, <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/vinyl/tiles/envee-stone-vinyl-tiles.html?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths" target="_blank" rel="noopener">vinyl tiles</a>, and <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/vinyl/planks/envee-wood-vinyl-plank.html?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths" target="_blank" rel="noopener">vinyl planks</a>. <table style="height: 100px; border: 0 !important; box-shadow: none !important;" width="200"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="text-align: center;">Related Content >> <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/blog/best-flooring-resale/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Best Flooring for Resale</a></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <h2>Myth 3: Peel and Stick Tiles Will Damage Your Floors </h2> <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/carpet-tile/shaw-floorigami-dynamic-vision.html?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="alignnone wp-image-11850" src="https://www.flooringinc.com/media/magefan_blog/2020/09/Floorigami-Dynamic-Vision-Carpet-Plank.jpg" alt="Floorigami Dynamic Vision Carpet Plank" width="630" height="414" /></a> <h3>Expert Opinion: Mostly False</h3> Some people believe that peel and stick flooring can damage your existing floor or leave behind a residue when you pull it up. This is an especially big concern for renters worried about keeping their security deposits. Good news! You don’t have to worry anymore. While we don't recommend using peel and stick on natural floors like hardwood, other flooring options are fair game. Our peel and stick flooring is designed to have a sturdy grip while you’re walking around on it, but it also comes up easily when you want to remove it. It won’t pull up parts of your existing floor, and it rarely leaves behind any residue. Pro Tip: If you do find that some adhesive is left behind after you pull up your floor, you can easily remove it with a contact adhesive remover or acetone. <table style="height: 100px; border: 0 !important; box-shadow: none !important;" width="200"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="text-align: center;">Related Content >> <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/blog/temporary-flooring-for-renters/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Temporary Flooring for Renters</a></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <h2>Myth 4: Peel and Stick Flooring is Hard to Install</h2> <iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oP3ziqwavFs" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <h3>Expert Opinion: False</h3> The nice characteristic about laying peel and stick flooring is that it doesn’t take a pro to install it. Peel and stick floor tiles are made for DIY installation. You can peel off the backing and stick the flooring to any smooth, clean surface, and then you’re done! Best of all, you can complete installation quickly, which means you can finish your project in a matter of hours and then move on with your life. Pro Tip: When installing it yourself, make sure to prepare with the right tools and materials for the job. Sometimes you can cut the flooring with scissors, but for thicker products, we recommend using a <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/accessories/utility-knife.html?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths" target="_blank" rel="noopener">utility knife</a> and a <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/accessories/adjustable-t-square.html?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths" target="_blank" rel="noopener">carpenter square</a> to make accurate cuts. <table style="height: 100px; border: 0 !important; box-shadow: none !important;" width="200"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="text-align: center;">Related Content >> <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/buyers-guide/carpet-tile" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Carpet Tile Buying Guide</a></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <h2>Myth 5: Peel and Stick Flooring is Unattractive</h2> <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/vinyl/tiles/floor-adorn-peel-and-stick-vinyl-tiles.html?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="alignnone wp-image-14234" src="https://www.flooringinc.com/media/magefan_blog/2016/03/FloorAdorn-Self-Adhesive-Vinyl-Sticker.jpeg" alt="FloorAdorn Self-Adhesive Vinyl Sticker" width="630" height="414" /></a> <h3>Expert Opinion: False</h3> You may have heard that peel and stick floor tile looks cheap or outdated, or that there are limited style options. However, you’ll find tons of different patterns and designs in peel and stick flooring, including wood looks, stone looks, and even decorative geometric patterns. Plus, with peel and stick carpet tiles, you have a huge range of vibrant colors to choose from. In the end, it’s just like any other flooring option. You’ll get a higher-quality look if you choose higher-quality options. Even then, you won’t have to spend a lot of money to get a trendy, attractive floor. Pro Tip: To create a stylish look for your space, you can use carpet tiles or decorative vinyl tiles to mix and match, and even create custom patterns like stripes and checkerboards. <table style="height: 100px; border: 0 !important; box-shadow: none !important;" width="200"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="text-align: center;">Related Content >> <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/blog/cheap-flooring-ideas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cheap Flooring Ideas: Keep Your Style and Budget</a></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <h2>Conclusion</h2> There are a lot of myths surrounding peel and stick flooring, but hopefully, this guide cleared them up for you. The truth is that this is a great option for almost anyone, from renters to business owners, and everyone in between. If you think peel and stick flooring is a great option for you, why not start with some free samples? <a style='color: #EAF0F5;font-size: 0.875rem;line-height: 1.313rem;height: 52px;text-decoration: none;background: #6993B6;padding: 0.625rem 1rem;' href='https://www.flooringinc.com/samplerequest.aspx?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths'>Order Free Samples</a> <a style='color: #EAF0F5;font-size: 0.875rem;line-height: 1.313rem;height: 52px;text-decoration: none;background: #6993B6;padding: 0.625rem 1rem;' href="https://www.flooringinc.com/all-vinyl.html#!utm_source=blog&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=peel-stick-myths&filter=356">Shop All Peel and Stick Vinyl</a>

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29 Comment(s)

Zara McMullen

Jun 06, 2022 00:18

I have rubber interlocking squares (like those you see in indoor play areas). There isn’t much more than a plywood floor between us and the folks below and the runner works better than carpet to provide sound damping between floor levels.

If thoroughly cleaned, can I keep the rubber squares in place and apply peel and stick tile on top? Either peel and stick carpet or vinyl tile - we would be happy with one or the other.

Ciana Gitre

Jun 20, 2022 06:44

Hi Zara! As a temporary flooring project, you most certainly can put peel and stick carpet/vinyl tiles on top of your rubber tiles.

Alexa

Jul 02, 2021 13:50

Hello,
I want to put a Traffic Master Peel-and-Stick vinyl tile over my existing vinyl sheet floor. What would be the best way to clean the floor before the installation? Also, can the peel-and-stick tile be installed over the in-floor radiant heating?

Sydney Shields

Jul 07, 2021 01:33

Hi Alexa,

Thanks for your questions. When installing any kind of floor over an existing floor, it's best to start with a clean, flat surface. To clean your existing floor sweep and mop the subfloor thoroughly to ensure excellent adhesion.

Typically we wouldn't recommend this type of installation as a vinyl sheet isn't an approved subfloor for peel and stick vinyl tile. To get a better sense of your new floor's features and constraints, it's recommended that you reach out to the manufacturer to verify where this product can be installed and if it is radiant heat approved.

I hope this information helps. Please check out our blog for more cleaning tips and tricks!

Carolyn

May 24, 2021 10:40

Hi, I want to put some Shaw peel and stick carpet planks vertically on a plywood wall. I am worried the thin strip of adhesive that comes on the planks is not enough to keep gravity from pulling the planks down the wall. What kind of glue can I add to the non stick portion of the planks to increase the adhesion?

Sydney Shields

May 25, 2021 08:02

Hi Carolyn,

Thank you for your question!

To ensure excellent adhesion for your vertical carpet plank install, I suggest using either <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/accessories/double-sided-carpet-tape.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Double-Sided Carpet Tape</a> or <a href="https://www.flooringinc.com/accessories/7700-series.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">carpet glue</a>. These options will keep your carpet planks in place whether installed on your wall or floor.

I hope this information helps, please feel free to reach out with any other questions. Thanks again!

Michael Hoffman

May 04, 2021 11:02

Do they stick good to cement floors?

Sydney Shields

May 11, 2021 05:53

Hi Michael,

Thanks for reaching out!

Peel and stick flooring does adhere to cement as long as it's clean, dirt-free, and has no moisture issues. Bare concrete is best when applying peel and stick flooring.

I hope this information helps. Please let us know if you have any other questions!

Julie Conkle

Mar 08, 2021 03:34

I have an enclosed, but not heated, back porch, and it has a sub floor laid. I want the tiles to make it look more appealing, and I am wondering if it being still colder if the tiles will stick?

Sydney Shields

Mar 16, 2021 08:54

Hi Julie,

Thanks so much for reaching out. To start, you should know that peel & stick tiles or any indoor vinyl tile/plank product must be installed in a temperature-controlled area to be covered under warranty. So while you can install the tiles in the area you mentioned, the warranty may be void.

I hope this information helps. Please reach out if you have any other questions and good luck on your project!

Chantelle

Aug 18, 2020 10:10

Hi there, I'm a very amateur home renovator, and I was wondering what the blog post meant about 'indentation' being a risk?

Also, would an on-suite bathroom (no shower or bath, so I don't think humidity would be an issue) be considered a high traffic area, or would the peel and stick tiles be appropriate for that room?

Chelsi Hewitt

Aug 26, 2020 07:42

Hi Chantelle!

Thank you for your questions. By indentation, we mean slight denting from heavy objects or furniture being dropped on the floor. This is a possibility for many flooring types, including vinyl flooring and even wood. For your second question, generally, peel and stick vinyl can be used in bathrooms.

I hope this helps! Please reach out if you have any other questions.

Kuyaromeo1

Apr 27, 2020 23:57

I am a renter, and therefore I am looking for a good but temporary solution to lay peel and stick tiles in my ugly bathroom. I need to put an underlay down (not for any specific reason, other than to NOT stick the tiles directly to the existing floor. As, it will be a nightmare to pull up when I leave this apartment). Yes, I know this is not typically how things are done . . but . . I am looking for a thin underlay that I can lay on the existing tiles (possibly secure to existing tils with rug tape). Then lay the stick and peel tiles with spacers and grout the tiles. The goal here is to provide a nice clean look to the bathroom floor, without damaging the tiles underneath and . . without having a nightmare of removing all the adhesive stuck to the original floor tiles when it comes time to remove the temporary flooring.

Chelsi Hewitt

May 19, 2020 02:57

Hello, and thanks for your question!

The best underlayment for this kind of project is a rubber underlayment with a moisture barrier. You would add this before placing the peel and stick vinyl. Rubber won't be damaged by water, so this is the material you should use.

Please reach out if you have any other questions!

Darlene

Sep 19, 2019 06:16

Can peel & stick be placed directly on AdvanTech flooring? They say it needs the addition of 1/4" board for any vinyl, but wondering if that is just rolled vinyl they are talking about.

Chelsi Hewitt

Sep 26, 2019 01:10

Hi Darlene,

Thank you for your question. If you are referring to an AdvanTech plywood subfloor, then yes, you can directly install peel and stick tiles over plywood. Peel and stick tiles are quite thin, so you need to make sure your subfloor is level.

Kim

Apr 16, 2019 09:36

Can you put padding underneath peel and stick? If I put it directly on the concrete under my existing carpet wont' it be hard? If so what padding is recommended?

Michelle Barichello

Apr 26, 2019 01:51

Hi Kim,

Thank you for your question. Carpet tile installations require a clean and level subfloor, so padding is not typically recommended. Starting with a solid concrete subfloor provides a stable base for installing carpet. It is possible though to install a roll pad and place the carpet tile on top of it, but it is not something manufacturers or installers recommend. You may choose instead to get a rubber underlayment for your carpet for extra comfort.

Thank you!

Arrowkitty1

Feb 12, 2019 02:10

Hi there,
Can you put peel and stick flooring on flat painted walls? Are they removable without damage? Thanks!

Michelle Barichello

Feb 12, 2019 23:12

Hi there, thank you for your question! Yes, you can put peel-and-stick flooring on flat painted walls. The paint must be fully cured and well bonded to the surface, and wait at least two weeks if this is a newly painted wall. It can be removed without damage...if done correctly! To remove, take a blow dryer and warm up each peel-and-stick tile directly, warming it up long enough to soften the adhesive. Then start at the corners and pull softly. You may have some excess glue left on the walls, in which case you can use a degreaser to wash the wall and remove remaining glue.

Hope this helps. Good luck with your project!

Che

Aug 31, 2018 04:04

Can you put peel and stick over carpet?

Michelle Barichello

Sep 07, 2018 04:46

Hi Che,

Peel and stick vinyl plank flooring cannot be installed over any high pile carpet. The “squish” of a plush carpet will prevent vinyl planks from locking properly. However, if the carpet is a tight, low pile style, then thicker, tighter locking vinyl planks may be suitable for installation.

Some people have had success installing vinyl plank flooring by placing plywood over carpet. Though it’s always best to check manufacturer guidelines for these types of installations.

Good luck with your project!

jusung

Jun 19, 2018 23:03

can you put this on exsisting laminate, as the laminate is very stable but we just want a new decor.

Ari Ziskin

Jun 20, 2018 01:20

Hello,

Any clean, level surface will work so you absolutely can put it over your laminate. Just be aware this may ruin or damage the existing laminate.

Terri

Aug 04, 2017 13:27

Can the peel and stick flooring be put on top of ceramic tile that has grout?

Ari Ziskin

Aug 08, 2017 07:43

Hi Terri,

Peel & stick tiles are quite thin so you really need to make sure you have a level subfloor. If you really want to use them, you could always float a plywood subfloor on top, but you could end up with a bit of an echo.

Usman

May 24, 2016 09:02

Do you have suppliers in UAE for peel and stick vinyl texture wood flooring?
Usman

Ari Ziskin

May 25, 2016 04:05

Hi Usman, when you say UAE, are you referring to the United Arab Emirates? We are a United States based company, but we have shipped orders via freight all over the world, and we can absolutely reach you wherever you are. You can also feel free to use code blog28 to receive 28% off your purchase. Please let me know if you have any further questions. Thanks!

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