Want to refresh the look of a kitchen without spending a lot of time and money? Install peel-and-stick vinyl tiles as a backsplash to the wall below the cabinets that join the surface of the countertop. This is a quick-fix solution and easy job that protects the wall surface, often prone to splashes of food or sauce during food preparation. These easy-to-apply tiles come in 12-inch squares with a peel-away backing in a nice selection of colors and designs. You’ll find them sold online and at home centers.
To install a 10-foot-long, 2-foot-wide backsplash with these tiles, a handyman will charge $980, which includes labor and material. You can buy the materials, do it yourself for $340 and save 65 percent. If your backsplash area has many electrical outlets or window framing to cut around, consider hiring out the job to a contractor who has the tools needed.
To help you visualize the effect of this job, try this trick. Cut construction paper as a make-believe tile in the color of tile you want into 12-inch squares. Tape them to the wall as a test to see if you like it.
Clear the countertop of everything so the wall behind it is accessible and easy to work on. Thoroughly clean the wall surface to remove dirt and grease that may have accumulated. Use soap and water and a degreaser, if needed. The surface should be flat, level and dry, free of oil and moisture. Plan the layout of tiles, then using a utility knife to cut them to fit, if necessary. Remove the film backing and carefully apply pressure in the middle, center, and all four corners of the tiles.
To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.
Pro Cost—DIY Cost—Pro time—DIY Time—DIY Savings—Percent Saved
$980—$340—1.0—8.5—$640—65 percent
