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Kitchen with blue tile backsplash, white cabinets, and gray granite countertops.
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5 from 9 votes

Peel and Stick Tile Installation

A Step-by-step tutorial for tiling a peel and stick backsplash for a perfect job. This easy DIY upgrade for your kitchen that even a beginner tiler can accomplish!
Prep Time30 minutes
Active Time6 hours
Total Time6 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 1 wall
Author: Rachel
Cost: $200-700

Equipment

Materials

  • Peel and Stick Tile
  • Pencil
  • Marking Pen Dry erase or washable markers work well.
  • Paint optional
  • Caulk one rated for Kitchen and Bathroom
  • Paper for making templates

Instructions

  • Clean the backsplash area well to remove any grease, dirt, or stains. If desired, paint with a similar color to the tile in case there are any gaps.
    Full kitchen with the outlets removed and wall prepped for tiling.
  • Measure the height between the countertop and upper cabinets in several places to check for any slope. Also check for level on both surfaces. If you have a slope, the best place to minimize its visual impact is right underneath the cabinets.
    Woman marking a wall with a pencil and level.
  • Lay out the tile prior to putting on a wall and make sure it fits together as desired. Peel the backing off and stick the wall firmly. I prefer to do all the whole tiles and then come back to the cut areas.
    Peel and stick storm cloud glass tile applied above granite countertops.
  • For vinyl or silica tiles, heavy duty scissors or snips can be used to cut them. For glass or stone peel and stick, glass snips and a wet saw will be used for intricate cuts.
    Man using a wet saw to cut tile.
  • Add a line of caulk around the perimeter where the countertop meets the tile to prevent any moisture from getting behind the tile.
    A caulk smoother tool being used to smooth out caulk on a bathtub.