How Long Do Adhesive Tiles Last?

Vinyl Floor Tiles

• Peel-and-stick self-adhesive vinyl floor tiles are inexpensive and simple to install. The length of time the tile will remain in position depends on successful preparation of the floor surface before installation. The floor should be completely clean and smooth, so it is necessary to remove any old molding and debris from the surface. Install a plywood underlayment a quarter of an inch thick, cover the seams with leveling compound and sand it down once it is dry. This helps to provide a solid base for the tiles, which will ensure that you lay them securely and the adhesive lasts as long as the tiles do.

Ceramic Floor Tiles

• Self-adhesive ceramic floor tiles also require a solid foundation to prevent them from moving, lifting and breaking. Remove the existing flooring and sand down the concrete foundation until it is smooth and level before installing the tiles. Alternatively, install an underlayment such as the one recommended for vinyl floor tiles to ensure that you provide a good basis for the tiles. Ceramic tiles laid correctly will last until they are broken or removed.

Wall Tiles

• The lifespan of porcelain or ceramic wall tile adhesive depends once again on the preparation and the quality of the substrate, or the wall beneath the tiles. A wall underlayment provides the same support for wall tiles that a floor underlayment does for floor tiles. The wall tiles can often be laid over existing tiles, however, if the surface is relatively flat and free of obstructions. Roughen the surface using sandpaper and fill any gaps to ensure a level, even base, then peel and stick self-adhesive wall tiles directly onto the wall. The adhesive on the tiles will last as long as the tiles do, provided you avoid allowing excessive quantities of moisture behind the tiles.

Carpet Tiles

• Carpet tiles generally sell with self-adhesive backing for easy laying. Floor preparation is important for successfully laying of the tiles. Clean the floor of all dust, debris and uneven patches. You can lay carpet tiles directly on top of wood, vinyl or ceramic floor tiles, but existing carpets must be removed and the floor beneath cleaned of old glue residue. The adhesive of carpet tiles last for several years in the absence of excess moisture. Frequent steam-cleaning of the carpets using water-based products, however, could cause deterioration of the adhesive and the lifting of sections of the carpet.