Frequently Asked Questions

Smart Tiles were invented over 25 years ago in Canada as the original peel and stick wall tiles. Designed to offer a fast, affordable, and mess-free alternative to traditional tiling, they quickly became a favorite among DIYers, renters, and interior designers. Still proudly manufactured in Canada, Smart Tiles are a trusted choice for easy-to-install, self-adhesive wall tiles used in kitchens, bathrooms, RVs, and more.

Smart Tiles are self adhesive wall tiles designed for quick and mess free installation without grout, glue, or special tools. They are renter friendly and easy to apply on smooth surfaces, making them a smart choice for any kitchen renovation or backsplash upgrade. Designed to last as long as you want, each tile features our patented Gel O layer, a clear flexible gel that protects against yellowing and cracking over time. Smart Tiles are a high quality solution that delivers long lasting value and a polished look you can trust.

Smart Tiles are based on a simple peel and stick concept that makes wall tiling quick and accessible for anyone. Their lightweight and flexible design makes them easy to cut, handle, and clean. No grout or drying time required. Perfect for DIY projects and small updates, Smart Tiles can be installed in minutes on a smooth surface without special tools, making them a popular choice for backsplash updates, kitchen refreshes, and renter friendly renovations.

Smart Tiles offer a wide range of benefits that make them a practical and stylish choice for wall coverings. They are easy to install without grout or glue and are specially designed to resist heat and humidity, making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. Built with our patented Gel O technology, they offer long lasting durability and a clean, finished look. Made in Canada, Smart Tiles are produced with a focus on quality, sustainability, and supply chain reliability. They are also fire resistant, emit low VOCs, and are certified safe for indoor use, making them a smart solution for renters, homeowners, and DIYers alike.

Once installed, Smart Tiles closely resemble traditional ceramic or glass tiles in look and feel. Their high quality materials and precise finish make them almost indistinguishable, especially in backsplashes and accent walls. The difference lies in the details: Smart Tiles are lighter, more flexible, and much easier to install, with no grout, glue, or special tools needed. They’re also often more affordable while still offering a refined and modern appearance, making them a smart alternative for DIY upgrades, rentals, and kitchen or bathroom renovations.

Smart Tiles products are certified for fire resistance (NFPA, ASTM E84, and IBC Class B). Our products have also received the A+ certification for the emission of volatile organic compounds and aldehydes under the ISO 16000 standard. This standard classifies emission levels from A+ to C (A+ indicating a very low level of emissions and C indicating a very high level).

Increasingly popular for interior decoration due to their easy installation and modern design, Smart Tiles raise questions about their resistance to heat, humidity, and water.

Heat resistance: Smart Tiles are designed to withstand the heat from stoves once properly installed. It is important to follow our installation requirements to ensure optimal heat resistance.

Moisture resistance: Smart Tiles are also designed to withstand moisture from bathrooms and water splashes once properly installed. Again, be sure to adhere to our installation requirements.

Water resistance: Regarding water resistance, Smart Tiles can withstand water splashes and humidity once properly installed. However, they should not be installed on a surface directly exposed to water, such as a shower cabin, as this could affect their adhesion.

Smart Tiles products come with a warranty against manufacturing or design defects for a period of 30 days from the date of purchase. For more information, please visit our dedicated page here or our general terms and conditions of sale.

Smart Tiles are renowned for their long-term durability, thanks to their ability to maintain their appearance without yellowing or cracking. Furthermore, we promise that your Smart Tiles will stick to your wall for as long as you desire! However, to ensure this durability, it is essential to follow Smart Tiles' specific recommendations:

• Make sure to adhere to our requirements regarding appropriate substrate surfaces and their preparations. This will ensure optimal adhesion and increased durability of your Smart Tiles.
• Follow our installation guides properly to ensure a perfect installation.
• Use gentle, non-abrasive products during maintenance to avoid damaging the Smart Tiles.

By following these simple yet important tips, you can ensure that your Smart Tiles remain durable and attractive for many years to come. Remember that taking care of your Smart Tiles from the moment of installation will guarantee their longevity and allow you to fully enjoy their beauty in your living space.

Want to keep your Smart Tiles in perfect condition? Here are some simple tips for effectively cleaning, maintaining, and caring for your adhesive tiles.

1. Use a soft sponge: To restore the shine to your Smart Tiles, use a soft sponge soaked in warm water. Avoid using abrasive sponges that could scratch the surface of the tiles.
2. Choose the right cleaning products: Opt for mild, non-abrasive household products such as dish soap, cream cleaner, or glass cleaner. These products will help remove dirt and stains without damaging the surface of the tiles. If your Smart Tiles are installed near a fireplace, you can use an orange cleaner.
3. Avoid harsh cleaners: Avoid using strong cleaners or aggressive chemicals that could react negatively with the tile surface. These products could not only damage the finish of the tiles but also compromise the validity of the Smart Tiles warranty.
   It's also important to note that some spices rich in colorants like turmeric can permanently stain the tiles.

If you are unsure which Smart Tiles model is best suited for your project, our interior design team is here to help. Whether you are planning a kitchen backsplash, a bathroom refresh, or a full DIY home update, we offer free personalized guidance.

To receive assistance, contact us by email at: decorateur@thesmarttiles.com

In your message, include details such as your preferred style (modern, classic, minimalist, etc.), the type of room you are decorating, and any color or material preferences. The more information you provide, the better we can help you choose the ideal peel and stick tile for your space.

If you're considering a renovation or construction project, whether it's for the bathroom or even your kitchen, it's important to know how many tiles you'll need. This will help you estimate the cost of your project and complete it as quickly as possible.

Measure the surface to be covered

The first step is to measure the surface you plan to cover. Use a tape measure to measure the width and height of the surface. If the surface to be covered is not a perfect rectangle, try to divide it into smaller sections that are rectangles or squares and measure these sections individually.

Use our tile calculator

Once you have measured the surface to be covered, enter the information into our tile calculator. This calculator is available on each product page of our website and will help you estimate the number of tiles for your project.
Enter the width and height of each section into the appropriate fields of the calculator as illustrated on our calculator. It will give you an estimate of the number of tiles needed. Please note that the Smart Tiles calculator automatically adds a 10% markup to account for minor incidents during installation (cuts, breakages, etc).

To ensure successful installation, it is imperative that Smart Tiles are applied to a smooth, even, clean, and dry surface. For cleaning the surface, make sure to use a degreasing product (TSP). We do not recommend using dish soap, which could leave a slight greasy film on your wall and compromise the adhesion of Smart Tiles.

If your surface is not smooth and/or even, you need to properly prepare the surface you will be working on. First, make sure to fill in any gaps between panels using plaster to achieve a surface that promotes optimal adhesion.

Next, apply a coat of primer to the entire prepared surface. Let the primer dry for 72 hours to allow for perfect bonding of the coating. If you prefer to use paint instead of primer, make sure to wait for 21 days to ensure complete drying before proceeding with installation.

By following these preparation steps, you ensure an ideal surface for your Smart Tiles.

To install your Smart Tiles around an electrical outlet, start by measuring the outlet and transferring the measurements onto the tile. Then, use a retractable blade knife to cut the tile according to the measurements taken. Once the cut is made, apply the tile to the wall, making sure to fit it snugly around the outlet. If you encounter difficulties during this step, feel free to consult our detailed tutorial video on installing Smart Tiles around electrical outlets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51vJ0J23oWM.

If you want to install your Smart Tiles on a wall with a concave or convex angle, here's what you need to do.

When dealing with a concave angle or a curved wall, our Smart Tiles are flexible enough to be installed directly.

When encountering a convex angle, make sure not to cut the Smart Tile in half. It's better to make a shallow cut and place the tile directly on the angle. This method helps avoid unnecessary pressure on the Gel-O.

To visualize this technique, we recommend watching our explanatory video that will guide you step by step in installing Smart Tiles on curved or angled surfaces: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51vJ0J23oWM.

To properly align your Smart Tiles during installation, follow these simple steps:

Mark the wall

Use a level to draw a horizontal line at the height of the first row of tiles. This will serve as a guide to maintain the alignment of your tiles during installation.

Realign the tiles if necessary

Our Smart Tiles come with a specially formulated adhesive that allows for repositioning during installation if firm pressure has not been applied. So, you can easily peel them off the wall to reposition them correctly without risking damage to the product or the wall.

It is recommended to add caulking between your tiles and your countertop to limit the risk of water infiltration. A silicone-based caulking is particularly effective for this task.

Our Smart Edge adhesive strips allow you to create an elegant finishing border for your Smart Tiles. By adding a refined final touch, they enhance the aesthetics of your peel-and-stick tiles. Available in various designs, Smart Edge matches perfectly with the colors of your tiles.

Designed with the same principles as Smart Tiles, Smart Edge strips are easy to handle, cut, and install. This makes the installation quick and hassle-free.

If you need to remove Smart Tiles after installation, don't worry! The tiles are equipped with a specially designed adhesive that allows for repositioning during installation if firm pressure has not been applied. If firm pressure has been applied or if more than 48 hours have passed, the tiles can be removed practically without damage, depending on the surface they were initially installed on. To facilitate the process, heat each tile with a hairdryer to soften the adhesive, then start gently pulling on each corner. Next, use a cleaning product to wash the wall and remove any excess glue left by the Smart Tiles. The ease of removing Smart Tiles makes them your preferred ally for all your decoration projects, even if you are a tenant!

The letters and numbers printed on Smart Tiles are only there for production purposes and should not be visible once the tiles are installed on the wall. To determine the desired pattern of your Smart Tiles, we recommend arranging them on your workspace before fixing them to the wall. During installation, ensure that the letters and numbers overlap along the grout lines so they are not visible once installed. It is important not to cut them as it would compromise the proper installation of your Smart Tiles.

Smart Tiles can be installed on various indoor surfaces as long as they are smooth and even. Here is a list of ideal surfaces for Smart Tiles installation:

• Painted drywall (after a waiting period of 21 days if the paint is fresh)
• Smooth ceramic tile
• Acrylic wall panel
• Wall linoleum
• Mirror
• Wallpaper and wallpaper

If your surface is not listed here or if it is not perfectly smooth, we ask you to follow our detailed preparation prerequisites outlined in the article 'How to prepare my surface for Smart Tiles installation'.

See the recommended surfaces in images

Certain uneven or porous surfaces should be avoided when it comes to installing Smart Tiles. Also, your Smart Tiles shouldn't be installed outdoor.

Here is a list of surfaces on which your Smart Tiles should not be installed:

• Textured wall
• Unpainted drywall
• Porous wood
• Textured ceramic tiles
• Textured wallpaper
• Inside shower
• Floor
• Countertop
• Ceiling
• Brick
• Stone

In general, textured or uneven surfaces, as well as surfaces with relief, do not allow Smart Tiles to adhere optimally. Therefore, it's important not to install them on such surfaces. In some cases, it may be possible to smooth the surface by sanding it and applying a primer (letting it dry for 72 hours). To help you prepare your installation surface, you can refer to our detailed article 'How to prepare my surface for Smart Tiles installation'.

Smart Tiles can be installed on a surface with a temperature not exceeding 49°C (120°F). However, it is important to avoid direct contact with a heat source, as well as direct exposure to an open flame. Therefore, you can install them outdoors and around the fireplace. Please note that if your fireplace is not 100% a tight seal and fumes are escaping, your Smart Tiles might burn or yellow.

Yes, Smart Tiles can be installed behind a stove or gas cooktop as they are heat-resistant. However, it is important to follow certain recommendations. If your stove does not have a rear control panel or metal plate, you should leave a safety zone of 8 inches without Smart Tiles behind your stove or cooktop to avoid contact with the flame.

To avoid direct exposure to steam, ventilation, or an open flame (in the case of gas stoves), we recommend installing our Smart Panel.

If you have countertop appliances such as ovens, toasters, or toaster ovens, keep a space of 2 inches between the peel-and-stick tiles and the appliance. It is also important to note that some spices rich in colorants like turmeric can permanently stain the tiles.

Our tiles are designed to withstand heat and humidity, making them suitable for bathrooms. However, it is not recommended to use them directly in the shower or bathtub, where they would be exposed to large amounts of water, and if the installation is not done correctly, leaks could occur. They can be used in areas only exposed to water splashes. If you want to apply them above the shower wall, make sure the surface is completely dry before installation to ensure optimal adhesion.

You can install Smart Tiles adhesive wall tiles directly over your old backsplash, whether it's glass or ceramic, as long as the surface is smooth and texture-free. It's important to consider the width and depth of your existing grout lines, as this could affect the final outcome of the installation.

Some designs of textured tiles may make underlying textures more apparent. To avoid surprises, we recommend testing with one or two Smart Tiles before covering the entire wall.

Finally, some Smart Tiles models have specific recommendations. You can check our dedicated page for more information: https://www.thesmarttiles.com/installation

Smart Tiles are indeed an ideal solution for revitalizing your rental property. Their ease of installation allows for easy application and removal without leaving any traces when you move out. Therefore, you can install them in your rental property to personalize your space without compromising your security deposit.

You can purchase Smart Tiles products in various ways.

Online: You can find a wide selection of Smart Tiles products on our official website or on popular online selling platforms. Buying online allows you to browse through our different models, sizes, and colors and place your order with just a few clicks, without having to leave your home.

In-Store: Smart Tiles are also available in most major home improvement stores, where you can find them in the wall covering or kitchen and bathroom accessories section.

Whichever option you choose, purchasing Smart Tiles is simple and convenient, allowing you to easily and quickly transform your interior spaces with style and functionality. Don't wait any longer, find a retailer to purchase your Smart Tiles today.

You can pay securely for your Smart Tiles order using Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or PayPal. All online payments are encrypted and processed through trusted providers to ensure your information is protected. Checkout is fast, simple, and safe.

Each product page features a dedicated button that allows you to order samples. It is important to note that our samples have dimensions of 4x4 inches.

You have the option to order up to 6 samples and enjoy free delivery for this quantity. Beyond 6 samples, delivery charges will apply. This option allows you to visualize and compare the different models and colors available, ensuring that you make the best choice for your decorating project. Don't hesitate to take advantage of this opportunity to be fully satisfied with your Smart Tiles purchase! Unfortunately, free shipping is not available for sample orders shipped to Australia and New Zealand. Shipping fees will apply for these destinations.

Your order will be processed within 2 business days upon receipt. Please also allow 3 to 7 business days for delivery. It is important to note that the delivery time begins once the package is shipped and you have received your tracking number via email.

When making a purchase and selecting delivery to Canada, the United States, or the European Union, no customs or import fees apply. However, if you choose delivery to another country, please note that customs or import fees may apply and are your responsibility. Therefore, be sure to inquire before making your purchase.

To cancel your Smart Tiles order, follow these steps:

1- Go to your Smart Tiles customer account
2- Find the order you wish to cancel
3- If the order has not yet been shipped, you will have the option to cancel it directly from your customer account
4- Follow the instructions to confirm the cancellation of the order

Please remember that only orders that have not been shipped can be canceled. If your order is already in transit, please refer to our article 'How can I return my order?'

If you made a purchase on our website, it is possible to return or exchange a product within 30 days of receiving the order. However, please keep in mind that some products may be excluded from this policy, such as those purchased during final sales or those for which it is clearly stated that returns are not accepted.

To return a product purchased online, please follow the procedure below: first, contact our customer service at info@thesmarttiles.com to obtain a return authorization number. This number is essential to ensure the efficient processing of your return. Once you have received this number, please carefully package the product to be returned and include all original parts, accessories, and packaging.

Ensure that the returned product is in perfect condition and has not been used. Once your package is ready, please send it to the address specified when requesting the return authorization number. Upon receipt of the package, our team will inspect the returned product and inform you of the status of your refund or proposed exchange.

If you made a purchase in-store, please note that specific return policies for that establishment apply.

Unfortunately, the sale of samples is considered a final sale. This means that once you have purchased samples, it is not possible to return them or obtain a refund. If you have any doubts or questions, feel free to contact customer service for additional clarification before placing your order.

As a retailer or decorator, it's essential to be able to distribute quality products to your clients. If you wish to distribute our products and benefit from exclusive discounts, early access to new releases, or our Smart Tiles Pro newsletter, follow these steps:

1. Visit our dedicated professionals page.
2. Fill out the registration form: Once registered on our professional page, fill out the registration form to become an authorized distributor. Make sure to provide all the required information, including your contact details, type of business, and registration documents.
3. The Smart Tiles Pro team validates your registration.
4. Start shopping now with your Pro account!

To become an affiliate, visit our Become an Affiliate Program

A Smart Tiles panel is a decorative wall panel designed to create a premium-looking backsplash that mimics marble or stone — while offering simple installation that’s accessible to any DIY enthusiast. Rigid, durable, and easy to install with construction adhesive, the panels are easy to cut and align seamlessly from one to the next, creating a continuous look that replicates real marble across multiple wall sections.

Each panel features a realistic marble print and is available in three standard formats:

· Panel A: left side of the stove

· Panel B: right side of the stove

· Panel C: central panel behind the stove

Together, these panels form a complete, cohesive backsplash that replicates the look of high-end slab installation — without the weight, cost, or complexity of real marble.

Panel kits are designed to simplify installation. Each kit contains several panels identified by a letter (A, B, C), corresponding to a specific part of the design layout. By following the indicated order, you’ll achieve a harmonious and cohesive arrangement.

Yes! The panels are designed for easy installation with construction adhesive and a few basic tools. Just prepare the surface properly and follow the steps in the installation guide.

We recommend installing the panels on a smooth or slightly uneven surface. They can be applied to drywall or over existing tiles. Installation is not recommended on very uneven or bumpy surfaces.

Make sure the surface is clean, dry, and smooth. Use a powerful degreaser, like TSP (trisodium phosphate), to remove any dust, grease, or residue.

If there is a silicone joint between the countertop and existing backsplash, remove it to ensure full contact between the panel and the wall.

Before installation, also clean the back of each panel with a clean cloth or paper towel dampened with isopropyl alcohol to promote optimal adhesive grip.

We recommend using a construction adhesive, preferably water- or silicone-based (such as PVI). Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure a safe and long-lasting installation.

Panels are folded to facilitate shipping and reduce packaging, minimizing environmental impact. This folding does not affect the quality of the product.

It’s normal for a small gap to remain at the back when installing a panel in a corner. If the fold aligns properly, you can bend the panel directly to fit the angle.

While panel overlap is generally unnecessary, it's acceptable to slightly overlap one panel over another when needed to achieve the best result and avoid visible gaps in the back. This method is especially useful in corners or areas where surfaces aren’t perfectly straight.

Yes, the panels can be trimmed to the desired size. Place the panel face down and mark the cut line with a pencil on the back. Use a retractable utility knife with a cutting mat, and make several light passes (3 to 4) along the line until the cut is complete. This method ensures a clean cut, ideal for adjusting height or making openings (e.g., for electrical outlets).

Always cut power before beginning. Mark the location on the panel, cut carefully with a utility knife or hole saw, then install as usual. Replace the outlet cover once the panel is installed.

Heat resistance

The panels are durable and designed to withstand heat from a stove. However, temperatures should not exceed 60 °C (140 °F).

Flame resistance

The panels meet stringent international fire resistance standards:

· Classification B, s2, d0 under EN 13501

· Classification V-0 under UL 94

Moisture resistance

Once properly installed, the panels resist ambient moisture (e.g., in a bathroom) and occasional water splashes.

Water resistance

Panels can tolerate splashes but should not be exposed to standing water or direct immersion (e.g., inside a shower or in constantly wet areas), as this could compromise their adhesion

To clean your panels, simply use a soft cloth with warm water and mild soap. Avoid abrasive products, harsh cleaners, or chemicals, as they may damage the surface.

Yes. To ensure a neat finish and protect against moisture infiltration, it’s recommended to apply a bead of latex sealant. If using white construction adhesive such as No More Nails or UniBond, it can also be used as a finishing joint for a seamless look.