Smart Vinyl Peel and Stick Wall Tiles vs. Ceramic Wall Tiles - Comparison Guide: Which Is Best for You?
You are looking to install some new tiles in your home but not sure which type to choose? You're not alone. There are many different types of tiles on the market, and it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you. When it comes to wall tiles, there are a lot of choices to make. Do you want faux peel and stick wall tiles or ceramic wall tile? What color should you choose? How do you know which type of tile is best for your home?
If you're in the market for new tiles options, you may be wondering if vinyl wall tiles or ceramic wall tiles are the best choices for your home. Vinyl wall tiles are made from a premium synthetic material. This material is known for its durability and resistance to water damage. This material is heated and pressed into thin layers that are adhered to form vinyl wall tiles or sheets. While Ceramic wall tiles are made from clay and other natural materials. After being shaped, the tiles are dried and then fired in a kiln. This kiln firing process makes the tiles impervious to water and other liquids, making them a good choice for wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
Both of these materials have their pros and cons, so it can be tough to decide which is right for you. This guide will compare vinyl self-stick wall tiles and ceramic wall tiles in terms of price, durability, ease of installation, and more. We'll help you decide which material is the best fit for your needs and budget. So, read on!
Vinyl Wall Tiles vs. Ceramic Wall Tiles: Which Is Best for You?
So, what are the significant differences between vinyl wall tiles and ceramic wall tiles? Here's a look at some of the most important factors to consider:
Aesthetic Appeal
Vinyl wall tiles:
Vinyl wall tiles come in various colors and styles similar to tile, so you can find the perfect vinyl wall tile to match your décor. These tiles are available in matte and glossy finishes, so you can choose the look you prefer. The photographic technology allows the vinyl to mimic the appearance of ceramic in a way that's nearly indistinguishable from the real thing. This means that you can find vinyl wall tiles that look like natural stone, including marble and granite, or you can find vinyl wall tiles with a more traditional look. This added layer allows the vinyl self adhesive wall tiles to withstand extended use.
Ceramic wall tiles:
Ceramic wall tiles come in various colors and styles, but they are not as varied as vinyl wall tiles. You'll find ceramic wall tiles with different textures, such as wood grain or slate, but the color selection is more limited than vinyl wall tiles. And, because vinyl wall tile can be printed to look like natural stone or other materials, you can find vinyl wall tiles with a more unique look than ceramic wall tiles.
Best For Aesthetic Appeal: Vinyl Wall Tiles
When it comes to aesthetic appeal, vinyl wall tiles come out on top. They are available in a wider variety of colors and styles than ceramic wall tiles, and they can be printed to look like natural stone or other materials. This gives vinyl wall tiles a more unique look than ceramic wall tiles. Plus, vinyl wall tiles are available in matte and glossy finishes, so you can choose the look you prefer.
Replacement
Vinyl wall tiles:
Replacing vinyl wall tiles is easy because vinyl wall tile can be cut to fit any space. You'll need a sharp knife or scissors and some vinyl adhesive, but otherwise, replacing vinyl wall tiles is relatively simple. If you have an entire room of vinyl self-adhesive wall tiles that are damaged, this may be the best option for you - vinyl wall tiles are relatively affordable, and they're easy to install.
Ceramic wall tiles:
Replacing ceramic wall tiles is not as simple as vinyl wall tile replacement - it will require the help of a professional. Ceramic wall tiles cannot be cut to fit any space, so if you have damaged or broken tiles, you'll need to replace them all in one go. This is more expensive than vinyl wall tile replacement, and it requires the help of a professional if you're not experienced with vinyl wall tile installation.
Best For Replacement: Vinyl Wall Tiles
When it comes to replacing self-adhesive tiles or ceramic wall tiles, vinyl wall tiles come out on top because they can be cut to fit any space. You'll need vinyl adhesive, but otherwise, replacing vinyl wall tiles is relatively simple.
Less mess
Vinyl wall tiles:
Vinyl wall tile installation is a relatively clean process - you'll only need to be careful not to get vinyl adhesive on your clothes or skin. The vinyl adhesive dries quickly and is non-toxic, so there's no need to worry about fumes or messes.
Ceramic wall tiles:
ceramic wall tile installation is a messy process - you'll need to be careful not to get grout on your clothes or skin.
Best For Less Mess: Vinyl Wall Tiles
When it comes to vinyl wall tiles or ceramic wall tiles, they are better for less mess. The vinyl adhesive dries quickly and is non-toxic, making vinyl wall tile installation a relatively clean process.
Installation
Vinyl wall tiles:
vinyl wall tile installation is simple. There's no need to use mortar to attach the vinyl wall tiles, making it ideal for do-it-yourself projects. If you need to cut vinyl wall tiles to fit a specific space. Measure the space and cut the vinyl wall tiles to size with a sharp utility knife or a table saw. This makes vinyl wall tiles a great option for a custom fit. And then peel and stick the vinyl wall tiles to your wall surface, and you're good to go.
Ceramic wall tiles:
ceramic wall tile installation is more complicated than vinyl wall tile installation. You'll need to use mortar to attach the tiles to your wall surface, and you'll also need to use grout between the tiles. This makes ceramic wall tile installation more labor-intensive than vinyl wall tile installation. And, if you need to cut ceramic wall tiles to fit a specific space, you'll need to use either a tile cutter or a wet saw. Overall, ceramic wall tiles are more difficult to install than vinyl wall tiles and require professional help if you're not experienced in installing vinyl flooring.
Best For Installation: Vinyl Wall Tiles
When it comes to installation, vinyl is the clear winner. Vinyl self adhesive wall tiles are simple to install - you don't need any special tools or skills. They can be easily cut to fit a specific space, and they attach to your wall surface with peel-and-stick adhesive. Ceramic wall tiles are more complicated to install and require some professional help if you're not experienced in vinyl wall tile installation.
Care and Cleaning
Vinyl wall tiles:
Vinyl wall tiles are easy to care for and clean. All you need is a damp cloth or a mop and some mild detergent or soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the vinyl wall tiles.
Ceramic wall tile:
ceramic wall tiles are also easy to care for and clean. The only difference between vinyl wall tile and ceramic wall tile cleaning is that you'll need to use a special grout sealant after installing the tiles to prevent water from seeping into the grout and causing damage over time.
Best For Care & Cleaning: Vinyl Wall Tiles
When it comes to care & cleaning, vinyl is the clear winner compared to vinyl wall tiles. You can clean vinyl wall tiles with a damp rag or mop and some mild detergent without worrying about water damage or mold growth. The only difference is that you'll need to use a grout sealant after installing ceramic wall tiles to prevent water from seeping into the grout over time, which can cause damage.
Feel
Vinyl wall tiles:
Vinyl wall tiles have a soft, cushioned feel. They are also warm to the touch, which can be a plus in colder climates or winter.
Ceramic wall tiles:
ceramic wall tiles have a hard, cold feel. They are not warm to the touch, which can disadvantage in colder climates or winter.
Best Feel: Vinyl Wall Tiles
When it comes to vinyl wall tiles or ceramic wall tiles, they are the best choice for a soft, cushioned feel. They're also warm to the touch, which can be a plus in colder climates or during winter months.
Cost
Vinyl wall tiles:
Vinyl wall tiles are a relatively inexpensive option, making them an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget. This is because vinyl wall tiles are made from cheap materials like polyvinyl chloride plastic and are mass-produced in factories, which keeps the cost low.
Ceramic wall tile:
ceramic wall tiles are more expensive than vinyl wall tiles, but they are still a relatively affordable option compared to other tiling materials like marble and granite. This is because ceramic wall tiles are made from natural materials like clay and fired in kilns, making them more labor-intensive to produce, which drives up the cost.
Best For Cost: Vinyl Wall Tiles
When it comes to cost, vinyl wall tiles are the clear winner. They are a more affordable option than ceramic wall tiles, and they still look great. If you're on a budget, vinyl wall tiles are the way to go.
No Wait Time
Vinyl wall tiles:
You can install vinyl wall tiles immediately after purchase - there's no need to wait for them to dry. This means that you can start using your vinyl wall tiles as soon as they're installed, which is a plus if you're looking for a quick turnaround.
Ceramic wall tile:
ceramic wall tile installation requires time for the adhesive to dry, so you won't be able to start using your ceramic wall tiles until a few hours after installation. If you're looking for a quick turnaround, vinyl wall tiles are the better option.
Best For Quick Use After Installation: Vinyl Wall Tiles
When it comes to vinyl peel and stick wall tiles or ceramic wall tiles, they are the best option for a quick installation. Vinyl wall tiles can be installed immediately after purchase, while ceramic wall tiles require the adhesive to dry.
Premium Vinyl Peel and Stick Wall Tile Grout vs. Ceramic Wall Tile Grout: Which Is Best for You?
The difference between vinyl and ceramic tiles doesn't stop installation. There are also differences in the grout. Grout holds both vinyl wall tiles and ceramic wall tiles together, and it's a thin material that you can use to fill in gaps between tiles.
Vinyl grout is made of siliconized acrylic polymer resin and is a great option for people who want a grout that will prevent mold growth, which can happen if the adhesive gets wet. On the other hand, ceramic wall tiles have a traditional grout made of cement and sand. These two materials work together to create a strong bond between your tiles.
If you've got a certain aesthetic in mind for your home but aren't sure which grout material to use, we've created this handy reference guide so you can figure out whether vinyl wall tiles or ceramic wall tiles are the best choices for you. Let's take a close look at Vinyl Peel and Stick Tile grout vs. ceramic wall tile grout:
Peel and Stick Vinyl Wall Tile vs. Ceramic Wall Tile Grout - Maintenance:
Both vinyl and ceramic tiles need to be grouted to form a bond between the tiles and fill in any gaps. Vinyl wall tiles are easier to maintain than ceramic wall tiles. Unlike ceramic wall tile grout, vinyl wall tile grout doesn't require sealing because it's hydrophobic, meaning that it repels water. This means that you won't have to seal your tiles as often with a vinyl wall tile installation. However, you will still need to clean them regularly with a lot of water and a mild detergent or soap.
On the other hand, ceramic wall tiles require regular sealing to prevent damage to the adhesive and grout. If you've got a ceramic wall tile installation, it's best to seal them at least once a year with an impregnating sealant to maintain your ceramic wall tiles.
Peel and Stick Vinyl Wall Tile vs. Ceramic Wall Tile Grout - Appearance:
The biggest difference between the vinyl peel and stick wall tiles vs. ceramic wall tiles is how they look. Vinyl self-stick wall tiles grout is available in a wide variety of patterns and colors, giving you many design options. Meanwhile, ceramic wall tiles grout come in limited patterns and colors.
If you're looking for something more than just a solid color or patterned tile, we've got plenty of peel and stick tiles that can match your needs. We also go the extra mile to ensure that our vinyl wall tiles are true to color, so you can have a complete look just by using our tiles.
Premium Vinyl Peel and Stick Wall Tile vs. Ceramic Wall Tile Grout - Time:
If you're looking for a quick turnaround, vinyl wall tiles are the better option. Ceramic wall tile installation requires time for the adhesive to dry, so you won't be able to start using your ceramic wall tiles until a few hours after installation. In contrast, vinyl wall tiles can be installed immediately after purchase.
Vinyl Peel and Stick Wall Tile vs. Ceramic Wall Tile Grout - Lifespan:
If you start with a high-quality adhesive and grout, both vinyl wall tiles and ceramic wall tiles can last up to a long time. Vinyl peel and stick wall tiles tend to last longer, up to 15 years, because they're less likely to chip or crack due to their nonporous surface. However, ceramic wall tiles can last just as long, depending on your adhesive and grouting quality.
Peel and Stick Tile vs. Ceramic Wall Tile Grout - Cost:
If you're looking for an inexpensive option, vinyl wall tiles are a great choice because they come at a lower cost than ceramic wall tiles. If you've got a tight budget, then vinyl wall tiles provide you with enough options to choose from so that you can get the look you want while sticking to your budget. Ceramic wall tiles grout tend to come at a higher cost, increasing the total budget.
Vinyl Peel and Stick Wall Tile vs. Ceramic Wall Tile Grout - Durability:
Both peel and stick tiles and ceramic wall tile grout are durable, but the latter is more resistant to temperature changes. This means it's less likely to crack or chip if moisture gets inside or if the temperature in the room changes.
Vinyl Peel and Stick Wall Tile vs. Ceramic Wall Tile Grout - Safer for Kids:
Finally, our last difference between the vinyl peel and stick tiles vs. ceramic wall tiles is safety. Vinyl self-stick wall tiles are safer for kids than ceramic wall tiles because you can smooth out edges and cover any sharp tile pieces with a bit of grout.
Pros of Vinyl Wall Tiles:
Highly Durable:
Vinyl wall tiles are highly durable and can last for many years with regular use. This is because vinyl wall tiles are resistant to fading, scratching, and staining.
Water-resistant:
Vinyl wall tiles are water-resistant, making them an excellent choice for rooms with high moisture levels like kitchens and bathrooms. When appropriately installed in these areas, you don't have to worry about vinyl wall tiles getting damaged by splashes of water or spills from liquids like soap suds or shampoo.
Heat-resistant:
Vinyl wall tiles are resistant to heat and are hard to damage unless they are burned by an open fire, so they are used in kitchen backsplash and fireplace backsplash.
Environment Friendly:
Peel and stick wall tiles are environmentally friendly because they're made from recycled vinyl and polyvinyl chloride plastic that would otherwise end up in landfills. Plus, vinyl wall tiles are recyclable, which means you can recycle them at the end of their lifespan rather than toss them into a dumpster or trashcan.
Cons of Vinyl Wall Tiles:
May Fade in Direct Sunlight:
Peel and stick wall tiles may fade in direct sunlight, so it's best to avoid installing them in areas where they will be exposed to the sun for extended periods.
Not Good For Outdoors:
Self adhesive wall tiles are not suitable for outdoors because they are not resistant to the weather and can become damaged when exposed to heavy rain, snow, or ice.
Where Are the Best Places to Use Vinyl Wall Tiles?
Vinyl wall tiles are incredibly versatile - they can be installed in any room, including basements, bathrooms, and kitchens (any level of the home), as luxury Vinyl is highly resistant to water. Thicker vinyl wall tiles can also be used in commercial settings, making them a versatile option for businesses. Vinyl wall tiles with a thicker wear layer can withstand more traffic and are less likely to show wear and tear over time.
How Thicker Are Vinyl Wall Tiles?
vinyl wall tiles are available in thicknesses of 2mm to 10mm. The thicker vinyl wall tiles have a more durable wear layer and are typically used as kitchen and shower backsplash and bath areas where moisture is present. The thinner vinyl wall tiles are best for dry areas like living rooms and bedrooms. The thickness you choose will depend on the situation and desired wear layer. Generally, vinyl wall tiles with a thickness of 3mm are commonly used.
Are Vinyl Wall Tiles Resisted To Scratch and Dent?
The layer of vinyl wall tile over the substrate helps protect it from scratches and dents. This means that vinyl wall tiles are less likely to show wear and tear over time, making them an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
Shop Vinyl Wall Tiles At Linentree Store:
Smart peel and stick wall tiles are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to install new tiles on walls. They're easy to install and maintain, water-resistant, and scratch-resistant. Vinyl wall tiles can be installed in any room with moisture present on walls(kitchens, bathrooms). The thicker vinyl wall tiles have a more durable wear layer and are resistant to denting, making them perfect for high-traffic areas. Vinyl wall tiles with a thickness of three millimeters are the most common size.
If you're looking for faux wall tiles, your best bet is to head to a Linentree store. We are experts in self stick wall tiles and can help you find the perfect option for your needs. We have a wide selection of vinyl wall tiles to choose from, and we can help you find the right color and style for your home. Plus, we offer free shipping on orders in the USA, Canada, UK, and Australia. So, what are you waiting for? Shop vinyl wall tiles today from us in the best price range. Here is the article about " Modern DIY Peel and Stick Kitchen Backsplash Trends for 2022 ", and there are more home wall decor ideas from our Pinterest and Instagram channels.