I Tried Installing Peel-and-Stick Floor Tiling in Two Different Rooms—Here Are My Thoughts
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When I first heard about Chasing Paper's new peel-and-stick tile, I was immediately intrigued—and just a tad skeptical. So of course, I had to try it out myself. As someone constantly on the search for low-lift upgrades that don't require calling a professional, my journey into DIY has been a fun way to bring personality, style, and color into my home.
Initially known for its stylish wallpaper designs in traditional and peel-and-stick applications, the brand stepped into flooring as a natural extension of its existing lines. With over 30 patterns to choose from—like speckled quartz and granite, subway tile, and marble–there's something for everyone! The water-resistant adhesive vinyl floor tiles are laminated with a top coat to prevent fading and stains. Before you embark on your peel-and-stick journey, it's important to note that Chasing Paper suggests using floor tiles on smooth, nontextured surfaces like ceramic tile or sealed wood.
What You'll Need to Install Peel-and-Stick Floor Tiles
A broom or vacuum
Mop
Utility knife, scissors, or razor blade
Squeegee or smoothing tool
Felt discs
Patience!
My Experience With Chasing Paper Floor Tiles
I chose to test the floor tiles in my kitchen and bathroom, selecting the Dark Terrazzo pattern for my kitchen and Watercolor for my bathroom floor. The tiles are available in a set of eight 12"x12" squares or 2'x4' panels. Chasing Paper recommended the latter for fewer seams and to cover the larger tiles in both rooms.
Like most DIY projects, patience is the number one unseen but effective essential needed for tackling a project. I will be the first to say I was definitely lacking in that department when it came to adding the tiles to my kitchen. After removing my kitchen dining furniture, I swept the floors and used a wet vacuum to make sure the floor was spotless. While the floor dried, I laid out the panels in my living room to get an idea of how to cut the tiles.
With my sister's eyes to double-check alignment, I began in the corner and added four panels first, quickly getting a hang of the process. Bit by bit, I peeled the backing off of the tile and smoothed it down with my forearms (pro tip: use a squeegee) to smooth the application. Since I started the project late in the evening, I decided to bring in a few chairs, take a short dinner break and resume the next day. When I got back to the project the next morning, I realized my mistake: My tiles had streaks from sliding the metal table and chair legs across the floor. Chasing Paper does recommend adding floor pads to furniture but in the spirit of DIY, I broke the rules.
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The marks definitely bugged me, but I finished the installation, double-checking that the panels were perfectly lined up against each other so there weren't any gaps. I cut off the excess wallpaper with scissors and the kitchen was complete.
Taking heed of my dos and don'ts, I installed the Watercolor panels in my bathroom. I wasn't sure how I could maneuver around my toilet or the curved base but the razor blade helped me cut precisely to where I wanted the tiles to end. My bathroom is pretty compact so it was a simple install once I worked around the awkward angles like my vanity and toilet. I added my bath mats (I'm obsessed with Dorai's bath stone) and felt incredibly proud of the results. The tiles aren't shiny or slippery, my bathroom looks completely brand new, and I feel more confident about doing this again.
Overall Thoughts
A few months post-installation, I am definitely a fan of the peel-and-stick floor tiles in my bathroom. The tiles are water resistant but not waterproof so I was worried but I don't get my floor wet with my bath stone. If water gets on the floor from my bathroom sink, I wipe the floor until it's dry. Chasing Paper advises using a damp mop and gentle floor cleaning solutions free of bleach (it can affect the color of your tiles).
As for my kitchen, I have a few pros and cons. It's a high-traffic area in my home and since everyone is a mini Gordon Ramsay, there's a lot of cleaning up that takes place. From the tomato that got away to water on the floor after washing dishes, I oversaturate my floors with water on a regular basis. This will impact the quality of the tiles and they might lift up. But, if you don't have too many cooks in your kitchen, this won't affect your experience! Whether you're in an "in-between phase" while renovating or planning to spruce up your powder room, the tiles are a great way to personalize your space with a worthwhile, low-lift commitment.
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