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Can You Put Vinyl Tiles On Walls? (How To)

We all want our homes to look as good as possible so sometimes, we just want to upgrade and decorate. Perhaps you have considered putting vinyl tiles on your walls to do so. Can you do it?

Vinyl tiles provide an excellent covering for walls because they add both texture and color. They are also very durable and you can use any type of vinyl tile, provided you glue them in place.

Handyman putting on gloves

Throughout this article, we will consider several different factors that can make a difference when it comes to installing vinyl tile on your walls. Perhaps the most important of these is the type of tile that you will use but there are other factors to consider as well.

We will also discuss some of the preparation that is necessary to get the job done. Unless you prepare the walls, you will be very disappointed in the way things turn out.

Can You Put Vinyl Tiles On Walls? (How To)

Many people are surprised to learn that there are different types of vinyl tile. The first thing that they think of is luxury vinyl tile or maybe they also think of the tile that is commonly found in stores.

In reality, vinyl tile comes in a wide range of colors and styles that will meet almost any need and desire. If you want color on your wall, vinyl tile can provide it. If you want a beautiful design or texture, then vinyl tiles work well.

That being said, one of the considerations for installing vinyl tile has to do with the price you will pay. Many people just want to use the peel-and-stick tile and there certainly is nothing wrong with doing so.

You should realize, however, that peel-and-stick vinyl tile is not of the highest quality. It does come in a lot of different colors and designs, however, making it possible to decorate and redecorate on a budget.

If you’re looking for something that will stand the test of time and provide a little luxury along with the design, you should opt for a luxury vinyl tile. Otherwise, a peel-and-stick tile will work just fine.

Perhaps what is most interesting is the fact that the installation process when hanging tile on a wall is the same. The only real difference is the fact that you have to peel the backing off of one of the tiles before you stick it.

In the end, any vinyl tile that you put on the floor can also be hung on the wall. If you want, you can even put them on the ceiling! As long as you’re gluing them in place, they will last for a very long time and provide you and your family with a beautiful living space.

Should You Put Vinyl Tiles On Walls?

Handyman gives ok

It is relatively easy to install vinyl tiles on walls. You just need to follow the step-by-step process we have outlined for you in this article. That doesn’t stop people from asking, however, should you install them on your wall?

It is always a good idea to look at both the benefits and potential problems associated with any DIY project. This also includes installing vinyl tiles on walls. What problem should you watch out for?

Discoloration – If the wall where you install the vinyl tile is in direct sunlight during parts of the day, you will likely find that your floor is fading and becoming discolored. This is a problem with vinyl flooring and it doesn’t change when it is on the wall.

Some people avoid using it in those parts of the home and only use it as accents or as a way to add to the design, rather than including it as the primary design.

Gasses – There are many different chemicals used in the process of making vinyl tiles. Immediately after they are made, they are shipped to the stores and installed in homes in no time at all. That doesn’t give enough time for those gasses to release completely.

One of the biggest problems with vinyl tiles is the fact that they can off-gas those chemicals continually. You might find that it is a problem for you, especially if you live in a home that is closed up at all times and is susceptible to those chemicals.

Repair – Although vinyl tile is very easy to install on walls, it is not so easy to repair when there is a problem. You may just find that you have to tear out too many tiles to get to the problematic one.

This isn’t generally a problem because vinyl tiles that are installed on walls are not typically bumped or scratched. They take a lot more abuse when they are installed on the floor.

That being said, if you do have one that is damaged, it will be highly visible and it is not going to be an easy repair.

Glue – One of the reasons why peel-and-stick tiles stick so well is because we walk on the tiles regularly. The pressure that we apply to the tiles as we walk on them causes the tile to adhere even better.

Since you are gluing vinyl tiles to walls, there is not going to be foot traffic or any pressure on them. The glue may not stick as well as a result.

What Tools Do You Need To Put Vinyl Tiles On Walls?

Tool set in belt

It is always beneficial to have the tools we need on hand when we need them. This is also true when you are putting vinyl tiles on walls, as you would want to have everything set up and ready to go from the start.

Copyright protected content owner: ReadyToDIY.com and was initially posted on October 2, 2022.

Here are some of the tools you should have on hand:

Tape measure – This will be used to measure the wall as well as to measure the individual tiles when you have to trim them.

Pencil – You will mark the tiles before you cut them. If you are using peel-and-stick tiles, you should mark the paper on the back of the tile.

Straight Edge – You will need to have a straight edge so you can cut the tile properly. Although you can use a laminate cutter for this process, most people don’t have one and it is almost as easy to use a utility knife.

Utility Knife – Having a quality utility knife is imperative. It will allow you to get the job done and will work well without slipping. Be sure to have plenty of blades available.

Level – A level is imperative for getting things lined up properly so you are starting on the right foot. If the first tile you install is not level, none of the other tiles are going to be level. It will look worse as you continue to install more tiles.

Cleaning Tools – It is important to have cleaning tools on hand to get the wall cleaned and also clean up after yourself when you’re done.

Drywall Tools – Any imperfections in the drywall will show through on the vinyl tile. Use drywall tools to remove any high spots and fill any holes.

Paint Brushes and Rollers – You will be priming the wall so have paint brushes and rollers on hand to do so.

PPE – Be sure to have safety glasses, gloves, and kneepads available for the job.

What Preparations Do You Need To Install Vinyl Tiles On Walls?

Handyman on job site

It is always important to prepare for a job before you get started with the actual chore. Here’s how to prepare for installing vinyl tiles on walls.

Step 1: Scrape – Run a drywall knife over the wall and scrape off the high points. These are typically found in areas where there is a hole. If you notice any other bumps on the wall, make sure they are fixed before the tile is glued on.

Step 2: Repair – The next step in the process is to repair the drywall by filling any holes. You can consider the drywall to be the subfloor for the vinyl tile. You need it to be perfect because any flaws will show through.

Step 3: Prime – Finally, use a high-quality primer on the wall. This will help to encase anything that would keep the adhesive from sticking properly.

How To Install Vinyl Tiles On Walls

Handyman putting on gloves

Now that you have your wall prepared, it’s time to install the vinyl tiles. You can use this process for any type of vinyl tile.

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Step 1: Measure and Cut – Measure the wall and cut the tile to match. It is typically best if you start with a full tile and then work from it.

Step 2: Adhesive – Regardless of whether you are using peel-and-stick tiles or not, you should spray some adhesive on the wall and give it a few seconds to tack.

Step 3: Peel – If you are using peel-and-stick tile, you should peel the backing off of the tile at this point. Otherwise, move on to step 4.

Step 4: Stick – Put the first tile in place. Make sure that you use a level and ensure that the tile is perfectly level. If there is any issue with the first tile you install then it is going to show up in each subsequent tile.

Step 5: Complete – Continue to install all of the tiles until the wall is full. You should then press on the tiles to make sure that the adhesive is sticking properly.

You can use vinyl tiles on walls to add color, design, and beauty. Any type of vinyl tile can be used for this purpose, although most people tend to prefer using peel-and-stick tiles. Make sure you glue the tile to the wall.

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ReadyToDIY is the owner of this article. This post was published on October 2, 2022.

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