How to Remove Peel-and-Stick Tile (Without Damaging Your Walls!)

Use these three simple tips to take down peel-and-stick tiles without damaging your walls.

Renters and DIY pros have discovered many ways around the age-old dilemma of making a rental space your own. From wallpaper to flooring to backsplash tiles, peel-and-stick products are game-changers for making rentals look custom.

There are many benefits to using peel-and-stick products, even if you aren’t a renter. For one, peel-and-stick products are often much cheaper than installing traditional tile. Peel-and-stick tiles are also easier to install compared to tiles applied with mortar and grout, and they don’t require any time to set before use. Because peel-and-stick products are easier to work with, anyone can install the products themselves without having to hire a contractor.

While peel-and-stick products come with plenty of perks, the low cost and ease go out the window if you can’t properly remove the tile before your lease is up. Keep reading to learn how to remove peel-and-stick tile (and save yourself a headache) without damaging your walls or floors.

Related: The 10 Best Peel and Stick Tiles to Dress Up Your Home, DIY Style

How to Remove Peel-and-Stick Tile

Use these three easy tips to remove temporary tiles with ease. The following method for removing peel-and-stick tile will work for both backsplash and floor tiles.

1. Apply Heat

The key to removing peel-and-stick tile without causing damage to the wall or floor underneath is applying heat. Use a hairdryer or heat gun and apply heat to the tile from at least 1 inch away. If you don’t own a hairdryer, you can also warm the tiles by laying down a towel on top of the tiles, and ironing on top of the towel. Do not iron directly on the tiles, as it can cause them to melt and further attach to the wall or floor.

Related: Peel-and-Stick Backsplash Tiles Are the Renter-Friendly Kitchen Solution

2. Start at the Corners

As you are steadily applying heat to the tiles, hold the hairdryer or heat gun in one hand, and with the other, beginning lifting at the corner of a tile. If the tiles are vinyl and are attached in a sheet, continue slowly pulling at the tile sheet until it is completely removed. Switch the angle of the hairdryer to heat both sides of the tiles as you pull. If the tiles are individually attached, repeat this process with each tile.

If the peel-and-stick tiles are made from a stiffer material—like stone or mother of pearl—and don’t easily pull off, use a pry bar to lift the corner of a tile. Continue to slowly pry the tile from the wall or floor, using a paint scraper if necessary, until completely removed.

Related: How to Apply Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper for Long-Lasting Results

3. Remove Remaining Adhesive

After the tiles are removed, it’s possible there may be remaining tile adhesive residue stuck to the wall or floor. Use an adhesive removal spray, such as WD-40 or Goo Gone to loosen the glue. Let it sit on the surface for a few minutes, then scrub clean with water and soap. If you don’t have a removal spray, consider scrubbing the floor with water and dish soap.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do peel-and-stick tiles last?

Peel-and-stick tiles can last up to 25 years, but it depends on their durability, exposure to water, and how much traffic the tiles receive.

What do I do with the removed tiles?

Because peel-and-stick tiles are lightweight, they can be disposed of along with with your regular garbage.

When can I lay new peel-and-stick tiles?

You can lay new tiles (peel-and-stick or traditional) as soon as the wall or floor is clean and dry. If there is still residue left on the surface you can’t remove, you can apply the new tile on top of the residue as long as it doesn’t cause any bumps or bubbles.

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