I thought I was done tiling for a bit

[Gozo]

My daughter owns a condo in a converted 1920’s broom factory. I’ve helped her fix some odd bits here and there within, as any old building has its quirks.
She was impressed by the tile work when I remodeled the bath, kitchen, and bedroom and asked if I’d retire the kitchen backsplash.
It’s the common space between the granite counter tops and wall cabinets, probably about 15’ length in all. I told her if she’d get the current tile off (4x4 rough faced tile), I’d put the new tile up. I gave her the tools and know how to remove the current tile. I suspect the drywall will get a bit chewed up in the process.
She’s chosen a peel and stick mosaic tile. I’ve never used such before, but I suspect it’d be more work to resurface the drywall than to just thinset tiles to the wall and accommodate for lippage along the way. Also, she currently plans on staying there for a while and I’m concerned about the peel and stick eventually coming lose, especially behind the sink and stove top areas. That means I’d be doing all over again (and get “the look” in the process).
Your thoughts on these types of products?
I expect to get to work mid April and will of course post progress pictures along the way (unless it comes out embarrassingly horrible).

[Tool Guy - Kg]

I’m all for being open-minded to new products and technologies. That said, it’s hard to image a peel and stick product would be capable of lasting for a few decades. Do you have a link to this product?

[Gozo]

This is what she’s looking at: https://www.flooranddecor.com/glass-...ssionlist=tile
It ain’t cheap, but I haven’t seen it in person, so I’m going to reserve judgment. It’s the “peel and stick” part I’m concerned about. Thanks.

[ss3964spd]

I think I'd be hesitant also, Jeff, that the adhesive would eventually dry out. I see that the product is groutless, yet still has gaps - small though they might be, between each piece which I imagine will readily hold onto food and water splatters. Finally, I am guessing the adhesive sheet is pretty thin, which will probably require a really, really flat substrate.

[cx]

Hate to just pile on, Joseph, but this reminds me of Custom's Simple Mat that was gonna change the tile world (according to a Custom rep). Some applications I tested lasted a year or so before the tile dropped off the vertical surface.

Kitchen backsplash that can't be grouted? Not a good idea. Mosaic tile sheets that self-stick with no ability to adjust? Not for me. Not to mention the need for not only flat, but smooth substrate.

I think I would stick to using thinset mortar (pun fully intended) Or even an organic adhesive, if you prefer. But something that allows you to move the tiles while setting and tiles that allow for grouting. But that's:

My opinion; worh price charged.

[Gozo]

Thanks guys. I’ll let her know to do some more shopping around for real tile. I just didn’t want it to be based on only my temerity about scotch tape holding things together forever. I was worried I was being overly paranoid.

[cx]

Just because you're not paranoid, Jeff, doesn't mean nobody's out to get you.

[Gozo]

Just because you're not paranoid, Jeff, doesn't mean nobody's out to get you.

Quite true. Some days it seems everyone’s out to get me.
Project starts mid-April. I’ll post project pics from there. At least there’s no Kerdi overlaps or floor leveling to do.

[makethatkerdistick]

Glad you’re back, Jeff. Now, we have to just get Dan back with a new project, just like the olden times.

Another no vote on those peel and stick backsplash elements from my end here. Not something a tile grump like myself can stomach. For good scrubbability and integrity in general a good ceramic tile is superior.

I have got a colleague who has gone crazy on this peel and stick stuff. Every time she brags about her accomplishments, I have to bite my tongue.

[ss3964spd]

No new tiling projects on the horizon for me, Wolfgang, but do still need to replace 3 windows, install an expansion tank for the water heater, and a few odds-n-ends here and there. Tons of yardwork as usual.

[makethatkerdistick]

Dan, did you ever finish your guest bathroom redo? Maybe I missed that thread.
Seems like you are focussed on smaller, more manageable projects.
I’ve been doing some window and door replacements, too.

Anyway, back to Jeff’s thread topic…. Not trying to hijack his peel-and-stick abomination

[ss3964spd]

I did finish it, Wolfgang. Pretty pleased with how it turned out. I do remain, however, consistently inconsistent with tile layout though!