The Pros and Cons of Stick-on Tiles vs Non-Stick Tiles

Are you planning to revamp your home’s flooring or add a stylish backsplash to your kitchen or bathroom? With so many options out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. From installation and material options to costs and durability, we’ll take you through a comprehensive comparison of stick-on tiles and non-stick tiles. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a first-time homeowner, we’ll guide you in making the right choice for your dream project.

Comparing Stick-on Tiles and Non-Stick Tiles

When it comes to choosing the right tiles for your home, you need to consider the installation process, available materials, and cost differences. Stick-on tiles, also known as peel-and-stick tiles, are self-adhesive, making them an ideal choice for those who prefer a quick and easy installation. On the other hand, non-stick tiles require additional tools and materials, such as grout and mortar, and may take more time and effort to install. That said, you should expect any non-stick tiling in bathrooms or kitchens to be far more durable than stick-on tiles.

Stick-on-floor tiles are typically made from vinyl, whereas non-stick tiles offer a wider range of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, stone, and more. As for the costs, stick-on tiles are generally more budget-friendly than their non-stick counterparts. However, there’s more to consider than just the price tag.

Installation Process

For DIY enthusiasts or those looking for a quick home makeover, self-adhesive tiles, also known as stick-on tiles or peel-and-stick tiles, are a convenient go-to. With their adhesive backing, all you need to do is peel away the paper, position the tiles on a flat surface, and press them down to secure them in place. Just make sure to fill in any existing grout lines and ensure a level surface for the best results. However, it’s worth noting that peel-and-stick tiles may be more vulnerable to water damage in areas like the kitchen backsplash, where gaps between tiles can allow moisture to seep in.

Non-stick tiles, on the other hand, require more skill and time for installation. In addition to the tiles themselves, you’ll need grout, mortar, a level, tape measure, and a utility knife. Ensuring a perfectly flat surface and accurate measurements are crucial for a secure and seamless finish. While the installation process may be more challenging, the resulting durability and longevity of non-stick tiles can make it worth the extra effort. What's more, you can expect your non-stick tiles in kitchens, bathrooms or outdoor areas to retain a sparkling, pristine appearance for decades.

For more information on how to install non-stick tiles, check out our learn how to tile blogs.

Material Options

Stick-on tiles come in various materials, including vinyl, metal, gel, glass, and stone. The price range for these materials can vary greatly, with glass, metal, or stone options typically costing three to five times more than vinyl or gel options. Despite this variety, non-stick tiles offer an even wider range of tile materials, allowing you to choose from ceramic, porcelain, stone, a variety of patterns, and more. So, while both types of tiles offer an array of material choices, non-stick tiles take the lead in terms of versatility and variety.

When deciding between stick-on and non-stick tiles, consider the specific needs of your space and your budget. For instance, if you’re looking for a more affordable option for a temporary upgrade, stick-on tiles might be the right choice. However, if you’re willing to invest more for a longer-lasting, durable, and more customisable solution, non-stick tiles would be the better option.

Advantages of Stick on Tiles

Stick-on tiles offer some undeniable advantages, particularly for those who love DIY projects or are looking for temporary solutions. Their ease of installation, thanks to the peel-and-stick tile adhesive, makes them a perfect choice for beginners and DIY enthusiasts alike. Additionally, their ability to be easily removed without damaging the subfloor or wall makes them an excellent option for rental properties or temporary upgrades.

Disadvantages of Stick-on Tiles

While stick-on tiles come with some benefits, there are also some downsides to consider. The durability of self-adhesive vinyl tiles may not be on par with non-stick tiles, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic or moisture. Indeed, you should expect your stick on tiling to last between three and 10 years, and their appearance could become quite tatty over the years. Additionally, the environmental impact of certain stick-on tiles, particularly vinyl tiles, can be a cause for concern.

Here are some of those disadvantages:

Durability Concerns

Although stick-on tiles are a popular choice for their ease of installation and affordability, their durability may not be as impressive as non-stick tiles. In high-traffic areas or wet environments, such as kitchens and bathrooms, stick-on tiles may not hold up as well as their non-stick counterparts. Additionally, the adhesive used in stick-on tiles can deteriorate over time, compromising the tiles’ ability to stay securely in place.

It’s important to consider the specific needs of your space when deciding between stick-on and non-stick tiles. If you’re looking for a temporary solution or quick DIY project, they may be a viable option; however, for long-lasting performance and quality, consider using a traditional non-stick ceramic, porcelain or stone tile.

These gorgeous porcelain blue hexagon tiles will stand the test of time in a hardworking kitchen. 

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of stick-on tiles can vary depending on the material used. Peel-and-stick vinyl tiles, in particular, can have a negative impact on the environment throughout their production, life cycle, and disposal period. They can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during production, and their non-biodegradable nature means they can take a long time to decompose in landfills.

Advantages of Non-Stick Tiles

Traditional non-stick tiles offer many notable advantages over stick-on tiles, including their longevity, quality, and potential to increase resale value. They also provide better grip and slip resistance, making them ideal for busy areas requiring extra safety or wet environments, such as outdoor areas.

Patterned tiles, such as Remor, add extra decoration to your outdoor floors and walls.

Here are some of the advantages of using traditional non-stick tiles:

Longevity and Quality

One of the most significant advantages of non-stick tiles is their durability and long-lasting performance. When installed and cared for properly, non-stick tiles can last for 25 years or more.

If you’re looking for a floor tile or kitchen splashback solutions that will stand the test of time, backsplash tiles and non-stick tiles are great choices. Their longevity and quality make them solid investments, ensuring your home remains stylish and functional for years to come.

Gloss tiles make easy-to-clean and durable kitchen splashbacks. What's more, non-stick tiles come in a variety of colours and patterns; perfect for personalising your space...

Customisation

Non-stick tiles provide a wide range of customisation options, allowing you to create unique, bespoke designs for your space. With various floor tiles types, such as hexagon tiles, marble effect tiles and classic metro tiles, as well as a range of colours, you can mix and match to achieve a look that perfectly reflects your personal style and design preferences.

From wood, stone, and ceramic to marble, granite, and terrazzo, non-stick tiles offer a huge selection of materials to choose from, including the longevity option of a real tile. Their versatility and variety give you the freedom to experiment with different styles and designs, ensuring your space remains fresh and up-to-date.

Disadvantages of Non-Stick Tiles

While non-stick tiles offer numerous advantages, they also come with their own set of drawbacks. The installation process can be challenging, often requiring professional help, and the costs associated with non-stick tiles tend to be higher than stick-on tiles. That said, it's worth paying a little more for a more durable tiling solution that will withstand weather conditions and high traffic.

In conclusion, both stick-on and non-stick tiles have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Stick-on tiles are perfect for DIY enthusiasts and those looking for temporary solutions, offering easy installation and affordability. However, they may not be as durable as non-stick tiles, and their environmental impact should be considered.

Traditional non-stick tiles, on the other hand, offer longevity, quality, and personalisation.

Ultimately, the choice between stick-on and non-stick tiles will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. By carefully considering the various factors discussed in this blog post, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision that best suits your home renovation project.

Contact us to discover just how affordable non-stick tiling can be!