Given that flooring is traditionally such a major commitment, it makes sense that a handful of alternatives have sprouted up that offer a fresh look for less money and less hassle. Peel and stick flooring, which is applied over your existing floors in a manner similar to wallpaper, is one such option. But is it the quick fix of your dreams or just a temporary improvement? Ultimately, the answer depends on your overall budget, space, and personal preferences. To help you make the decision, it’ll help to know exactly what you’re dealing with and what you can expect from peel and stick flooring.
Peel and Stick Flooring Facts
“While you might think of the laminate flooring from decades ago—and maybe cringe a bit—peel and stick flooring comes in a huge variety of patterns and styles, and can be an affordable alternative to engineered or more luxury products,” says Tamara Day, an interior designer and the host of HGTV’s Bargain Mansions. “The material is actually very durable and somewhat water-resistant,” says Day. “For instance, I consider them a great solution for a kids’ space or a multi-purpose room. Because these vinyl tiles are easy to install yourself and pretty easy to remove later on, you can use them while the kids are young and upgrade the space to something more sophisticated when they’ve outgrown a playroom.” Peel and stick flooring could also work in a guest bedroom, the laundry room, or even in a walk-in closet. On the other hand, Day recommends avoiding super high-traffic areas, such as the living room or an entryway, or major “splash zones,” including bathrooms and kitchens. That said, some people opt to install vinyl plank flooring throughout their house and have had a positive experience doing so. Excellent installation means that the subfloor is in good shape and completely even before you apply the peel and stick planks. “In a space that is rarely used you will get a lot more life out of it than you would from a high traffic area, but even in your high traffic area, you will have years of use if the flooring installed well,” Day says.
