Peel and Stick Outdoor Vinyl Flooring Buying and Installation Guide

Peel and stick outdoor vinyl flooring for patios and entertainment areas has been the top choice for many homeowners for decades. Here is a simple guide about whether this is the right flooring for you.

There are many benefits to installing outdoor peel and stick tile flooring. It’s affordable, super easy to install, and offers homeowners a wide variety of design choices to suit their desired aesthetics.

If you’re considering installing outdoor vinyl flooring, here is everything you need to know about outdoor peel and stick tile flooring. We aim to help you make an informed decision using this buyer's guide.

Outdoor Vinyl Flooring Buying Guide

Let’s start with the advantages and disadvantages of outdoor vinyl flooring. If you are reading this guide then chances are you may never have installed vinyl sticky floor tiles.

It is therefore a good idea we start with the benefits and downsides so that you can weigh up everything accordingly.

Benefits of Peel and Stick Tiles

Peel and Stick Outdoor Tiles are Cheap

This is perhaps the main reason why people love outdoor vinyl flooring. Compared to other types of flooring, its market price is highly affordable. Outdoor peel and stick tile flooring is available from many reputable brick-and-mortar stores and online retailers.

Furthermore, there are many trustworthy brands to choose from which we will also outline for you later in this article. You don’t have to break the bank when it comes to improving the aesthetic appearance of your home's outdoor flooring. 

The Installation Procedure is Relatively Simple

Wikihow describes the installation of vinyl sticky floor tiles as “straightforward and simple”. You don’t need to be an expert at floor installation to carry out this simple DIY task.

We will cover how to install outdoor vinyl flooring a little later.

Fast Installation

Depending on the size of your floor, it could take an hour or two to install an average-sized floor space fully. Compared to other types of flooring, it will take you far less time to install a peel and stick vinyl floors. 

Variety of Designs

There is a plethora of designs and styles to choose from when looking at outdoor peel and stick tile flooring. You could pick a design with a wood/floor-like pattern or something more earthy like a stone-based design.

There are both simple and luxurious designs for you to choose from at affordable prices, ultimately giving you a lot of creative freedom to fashion your space as desired. 

Peel and Stick Outdoor Tiles are Water Resistant

The biggest challenge when it comes to maintaining a superb outdoor floor is water damage, especially with wooden floors. By installing vinyl sticky floor tiles, you will not need to worry about this problem since it is water resistant, extremely hardy and weatherproof.

You Can Install it Yourself

As mentioned earlier, you don’t need to be a professional to install this kind of flooring. A razor knife and measuring tape are the primary tools required for a successful installation.

Not to mention, installing peel and stick vinyl flooring is mess-free.

Outdoor Vinyl Flooring is Highly Durable

These floor tiles are great for areas where you don’t want to invest a lot of capital just yet. They can be an excellent short-term solution, allowing you time to save up for more costly flooring solutions.

Furthermore, the material is actually very durable, perfect for areas that get a lot of foot traffic. Most vinyl sticky floor tiles also have a wear layer on their surface that resists scratches and stains.

If installed correctly and a premium product is being used, this flooring can last upwards of 10 years.

Disadvantages of Peel and Stick Tiles

Looking at the downsides, outdoor vinyl flooring will never fully be able to replicate real wood or stone flooring. Its overall appeal is less realistic.

This is irrespective of how luxurious the product is. It would be relatively easy for people to distinguish between stone vinyl flooring with actual stone tiles.

Additionally, this flooring won’t increase the resale value of your home like hardwood flooring or stone tiles would.

What to Consider When Buying Outdoor Peel and Stick Tiles

Buying peel and stick vinyl flooring is relatively easy but you will want to consider a few things beforehand. It is important not to just buy anything you come across.

Here are a few considerations to help you pick the best outdoor vinyl flooring for your needs. 

Different Types of Peel and Stick Vinyl Floor 

Most people are unfamiliar with the fact that there are many different types of products to choose from. According to Flooring Clarity, there are several types of peel and stick vinyl floors for buyers to consider. 

They include:

• Vinyl Composition Tile – It’s a bit tough, durable and affordable. 
• Vinyl Enhanced Tile – It’s more robust than the above type since it is ‘enhanced’. 
• Solid Vinyl Tiles – These are more suitable for commercial properties such as banks, offices and schools where there is a lot of traffic. They come in at a higher price point but they are far more durable and require very little maintenance.

Picking the Perfect Style to Elevate Your Space

Once you have identified the suitable type of vinyl flooring for your needs, the next step is to pick the style or design that best suits your space's aesthetic. We all have different tastes and preferences. 

One thing you need to know is that there is a design, color and pattern for everyone. Therefore, it is all up to you to pick a design that suits you the most.

Make sure that the design you pick elevates and compliments your furniture and décor. If you do happen to pick the wrong design and only realize this after installing it, peel and stick vinyl tiles are luckily easy to remove and replace.

Many retailers should stock sample tiles for you to take home and access how it works in your space before you commit to anything.

Styles and types can include:

• Metallic designs and finishes
• Wooden designs and finishes
• Patterned designs 
• Ceramic designs and finishes
• And much more

Choosing the Right Outdoor Vinyl Flooring Size 

The size of the outdoor peel and stick tile flooring you pick naturally depends on the size of the floor you wish to cover. The most common sizes are 12″ x12″ and 16″ x16″. However, some vendors do sell peel and stick vinyl floor tiles measuring up to 20″.

It is also recommended to choose peel and stick tiles with thickness of 3mm to 4mm or more for good durability.

Cost of Purchase and Installation

For every square foot of peel-and-stick floor tiles you buy, you can expect to pay something between $0.20 to $2. This can naturally vary depending on the quality and brand of tiles you choose.

Most patterns go for at least $1 per square foot. When you install the vinyl floor tiles yourself, you can minimize the installation costs. As mentioned earlier, installing this kind of tile is relatively easy but can be a little time-consuming. 

Installing Peel and Stick Vinyl Flooring

Surface Preparation

Should your floor be uneven or have a rough texture, you will need to smooth it out as vinyl tiles will take on the underlying texture of the floor they are installed on top of.

Tools you may need for prepping:

• Hand sander
• Alcohol and water solution
• Vacuum and mop
• Spirit leveler

It will be best to remove any trims and baseboards, thresholds or outlet covers. For outdoor floors, be sure to remove any nails that may be sticking out.

Start by giving your floor a good clean by vacuuming and mopping it. Remove any other nails, screws, dirt build-up and other defects that may impede the installation of the vinyl sticky floor tiles. 

If any existing vinyl is on the floor, be sure it is in good condition, is adhering properly across the floor and is clean. Use your leveler and sander to level out the subfloor or wood to create the smoothest possible surface. 

Be sure to sand any uneven or rough surfaces as well. Once you have a smooth and even floor surface, you can then give your floor another good clean by vacuuming and mopping it again. 

You are now about ready for installation. As you go, be sure to remove any dirt or dust that may be gathering until the vinyl planks are installed.

Installing the Outdoor Vinyl Flooring

Before you lay the vinyl tiles, be sure your wooden floors are secured properly and if needed, add any additional screws or nails.

If you desire to level out the seams between the wooden planks, you will need to use a leveling compound and give it the proper time to dry sufficiently. Once dried, be sure to sand the compound evenly and give the floor another good clean.

Using a measuring tape or two if needed, measure and plan the layout of your floor. Then, measure the size of one of the vinyl tiles so you can ascertain how many tiles you will need.

Divide the area of your floor space by the tiles area to find out how many tiles you need. It is recommended to get at least 10% more planks than you need in case of mistakes later on. 

Gently peel the backing paper off the planks, being careful not to touch the adhesive side. Immediately start laying the vinyl tiles one by one, sticking to the sides and corners of the floor.

It is best to install tiles in rows and work your way across. As you get to the end of your rows and corners, cut the vinyl tiles with your utility knife as needed to adjust their size for a seamless fit. 

Once you have covered the entire floor space with the outdoor peel and stick tile flooring, use a roller tool to flatten and firmly adhere the tiles, forcing out any air bubbles and smoothing out any lifting corners. 

Give the flooring some time to settle and for the adhesive to stick properly. Thereafter, you can start enjoying your new floor. You can follow this same process for installation on any floor type.

Where to Buy Outdoor Peel and Stick Tiles

In the past few years, there has been a decline in the number of peel and stick vinyl brands on the market. This is mostly due to the stiff competition from luxury vinyl planks and floating tiles.

When it comes to buying the right tiles for your needs, it is always best to choose products from reputable brands and buy the most premium product you possibly can.

Some of the esteemed brands in the market include but are not limited to: 

• Armstrong 
• WallPops 
• TrafficMaster

Outdoor Vinyl Flooring Frequently Asked Questions

Can vinyl flooring be installed outside?

Vinyl floor tiles are a great choice outside as they are usually very water-resistant and tough against foot traffic and scratches. Just be sure to check if the tiles you want are suitable for your climate before buying them.

Can peel and stick vinyl flooring be used on concrete?

Yes, as long as the concrete has been prepped properly. Be sure to give the concrete a good clean, smooth it out and allow it to dry before installation. If needed, repair and fill any holes and cracks.

How long will vinyl flooring last outside?

Depending on the quality of the outdoor peel and stick tile flooring you invest in, these tiles can last anywhere between 5 years and 25 years. If cared for properly, they will naturally last longer. However, eventually, they will need to be replaced to maintain aesthetics. 

Will peel and stick tiles work on brick?

Unfortunately, due to the highly uneven nature of brick walls and surfaces, these tiles won’t adhere properly even if the brick is painted. The best solution is to install the tiles on an extra panel like a thin acrylic panel for permanent adherence. 

Will vinyl flooring crack in cold weather?

Unfortunately, these tiles can be susceptible to cracking in very long and cold weather. You can always add a layer of weatherproofing to give them more durability if you live in a particularly cold region.  

Does vinyl flooring warp in the sun?

Warping is a more common occurrence in laminate and hardwood flooring but is not completely unheard of in vinyl as well. The primary cause of warping in vinyl floor tiles is direct exposure to harsh direct sunlight during the installation process.

This can cause the planks to expand. Try to install your vinyl floor tiles in the morning or evening when temperatures are less hostile. 

A World of Outdoor Vinyl Flooring Designs Awaits 

Outdoor vinyl flooring is a cost-effective way for you to improve the aesthetic appeal of your home’s outdoor patio in a snap. The floor plays an integral part in most homes, being the foundation of our aesthetics and décor inspirations.

This is why as a homeowner; you should always try to ensure your floors look their best, both indoors and outdoors. We hope with this guide, you are able to find the perfect outdoor vinyl flooring solutions for your needs. 

Take advantage of the many benefits outdoor vinyl flooring offers and elevate your living spaces with a world of design options to choose from.