Can You Seal Peel and Stick Tiles?

Peel and Stick

• Peel and stick tiles are generally inexpensive compared to other flooring materials, such as ceramic and wood. They are also easy to install for the average do-it-yourselfer. Peel and stick tiles are typically made from vinyl. To adhere the tiles to the floor, the backing is peeled away to reveal the glue; then they are pressed to the floor. Note that while peel and stick tiles are easy to install, they are usually difficult to remove.

Installing the Tiles

• You can install peel and stick tiles right over a concrete or plywood underlayment. Sweep and clean the surface with a moist rag first. If the tile manufacturer recommends a layer of primer first, prime the surfaces with the recommended primer. A clean and primed surface ensures better adhesion and a more watertight installation. Plan out the tile arrangement by measuring and marking the floors with a pencil and straightedge or a chalk line to show where the rows of tiles should go. Remove the backing and start to lay the tiles on the lines and make sure that they all face the same direction. Tiles should be installed flush against each other.

Seal Peel and Stick Tiles?

• After rolling the floor with a floor roller, you can seal the lines to prevent moisture from seeping in between the tiles where they meet one another. This may be an optional step, or the tile manufacturer may recommend it. To seal the seams, you will need a liquid seam sealer or seam sealing kit, usually available where vinyl tiles are sold.

How to Seal

• Clean the tiles and seams with a rag moistened with lacquer thinner or soapy water. Wipe the tiles with a wet rag and wait for the area to dry. Then squeeze a thin line of seam sealer, per the manufacturer's directions, along the seam lines and wipe away the excess sealer on the tiles with a clean rag or sponge.