Customer Reviews for Custom Building Products SimpleMat 10 sq. ft. Tile Setting Mat

The Simple Mat was very easy to use. The glue is super sticky, so we had no problem with tiles falling off the wall. I used metal tile edging to complete the look. I wish I would have attached this to the wall and then added the mat over it rather than sticking it onto the mat since I then had to add more mat which made the tile angle ever so slightly (pretty sure only I notice). I broke the rules on tile size. The mosaic tile I really wanted to use had some accent pieces smaller than the minimum recommend size. Because they were too small, they weren't stuck in place well enough and angled a bit when I was grouting. It isn't too bad, but would look better if they were straight. I would highly recommend this material as long as you have the correct size tiles!

The mat does indeed claim what it says, which is to hold tile in place sans mortar; this is great because I don't have to mess with mortar and wait at least 24hrs before I can grout the tile. Since the mat is rolled onto itself, only a thick wax paper substance separated the mat from itself - less trash to be thrown away Since I have used the Simplemat sheets in 10sq ft box before for a tub surround about 5 yrs ago (and it's still holding up on the wall), using the Simplemat on the roll wasn't that different when I used it to tile a table. With both applications it was easier to remove tiles if lightly placed incorrectly; however, if the tiles are heavily placed incorrectly on either sheet or roll, good luck trying to remove them without damaging the surface bonded to the Simplemat. The minor differences between the sheet and the roll are as follows: - it's more for sq ft for the money with the roll. - the roll is probably better for larger applications (i.e. backsplashes, shower surrounds, tub surrounds, countertops, etc) rather than the sheets because large areas can be covered quicker; for the small project I was completing, I rather use the sheets so I wouldn't have to bother as much with the scissors to cut the roll - but I like more product for my money so I'd more than likely purchase the roll. TIP: make sure to lightly lubricate the cutting instrument (scissors, utility knife, etc) so it can cut through the roll easily without sticking to the Simplemat. In my project, I used simple vegetable oil on the scissor blades. - the roll seems thicker than the sheets; maybe it's not but it appeared to be thicker than sheets I used for the tiled tub surround.

Purchased this product after a home depot associate suggested it to me when I told him that I was going to tackle my kitchen backsplash alone.I am a 38 year old woman who has no experience in this area and I must say it was very easy to use and my backsplash came out beautiful

My sister and I took a "Do It Herself" class at our local Home Depot to learn how to install backsplashes using Simplemat. Boy were we impressed! We decided that we could tackle a home project. The Simplemat was great to work with! We got the sheets, but will probably use the roll next time because it is cheaper, and then just cut sections ourselves. The tile we used was the bright white subway tiles. They come attached to a mesh, so when you pressed them onto the Simplemat they were spaced correctly. We got the spacers, but didn't have to use very many of them. A male friend came over and had to try it out for himself. He was so impressed with our handiwork and how easy it was to put up the Simplemat and the tiles. I would definitely recommend this product. The next thing we are going to do is use the Simplemat to put tile up around the top of the tub enclosure.

I've never tiled before and I just wanted to finish my kitchen. I picked up the 30 sqft package at Home Depot figuring it was worth a try and, if successful, far cleaner than mortar. The wall is painted drywall with various spots patched up with drywall compound, sanded relatively smooth. Wiped the entire wall with a damp sponge to clean. The mat went on with minimal fuss. Used the grout float to force the mat against the wall and just regular boxcutter to cut as needed. Pulled the front piece off and started sticking tiles. It's a little tricky at first because you need to 'tilt' the tile in starting with the tile corner when using spacers, since it obviously can't slide side-to-side like mortar'd tile can. You also need to be a little more careful marking for outlets, since the tile will easily adhere to the mat. I lined up the tile to be cut over the tile below / to the side of the outlet, marked the tile edges, then used a speed square to mark the backside of the tiles where they needed to be cut. Some reviews state their large tiles fell. The instructions and box clearly state the tiles shouldn't be larger than 8"x8". I used 6"x6" ceramic tile and every single one held in place throughout the grouting process. The tile has been in place over a month now. It came out beautiful and I will absolutely be using the Simplemat again when I replace the cabinets on the other side of my kitchen. It's pricier than tile but there's absolutely no mixing or mess to clean up.

We used Simplemat to do a backsplash around a kitchen and had an overall positive experience. Having never done a backspalsh before, this allowed me to take my tile setting tiles and adjusting for complications along the way. I would recommend 2 things. One: make sure tiles are 100% dry before sticking them onto the Simplemat. In the past, traditional mud allowed us to get away with placing damp tiles. If a tile is too wet it falls off the Simplemat. 2. Simplemat is probably best for larger tiles. We ran into problems while putting on thin strips of piano tile since we would be left with small .5"x.5" pieces that didn't have much to stick to. I would definitely use thin in the future.

This product was awesome and so easy to use and it took a short period of time to complete the task. I wanted to wrap Mosaic Glass Tile around my bathroom sink and make a border and did not want to have to remove my wallpaper. It turned out great and this was the first time I have ever attempted a tile project which was small and successful with the assistance of this product.

Installed flat pebbles on mesh backing as a kitchen backsplash. Simplemat began peeling away from the walls before grout was installed. The problem began behind the stove, then went from there to all areas of the kitchen. Awful! Now, I'm going to have to remove all those pebbles from the sticky mat and start all over - this time with good old fashioned mortar. All the instructions included with the product were followed. Very disappointing! I put a lot of hard work into this project - all for nothing. I am hoping Home Depot will return my money.

I did the glass tile installation all on my own using 1x2 inch glass tile with a mesh backing. I couldn't have done this without the Simple Mat. Why in the world would anybody use anything but this product. I am a 43 year old female and proud as heck of myself for a job well done!

I've used this item on a few jobs around the house- bathroom & kitchen backsplashes. So much easier than using quickset - especially with small mosaic tiles. It's a bit hard to cut in a straight line, the scissors can get stuck on the glue easily :)

We've done extensive remodeling in several home and the two lodging properties we operate in Grand Lake, CO (Mountain Lakes Lodge and North Shore Resort). Prior to discovering this product, I dreaded using adhesive to attach tiles. Frankly, I'm really bad at it and it it was messy and time consuming. Simple Mat has changed that. It's fast, easy and clean. There's no mixing, wrestling or washing a bucket of adhesive or waiting for it to set. The clean-up involves throwing away some backing paper. I've had some pros tell me they wouldn't trust it. I have been using it for several years to tile (2) kitchen counters, (3) showers and (6) back splashes countless small projects like serving trays and drink coasters and have never had a problem. YOU DO HAVE TO FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS!!! Here are my tips for a successful experience: 1) FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS!!! 2) Use the big roll instead of the sheets. It's much stickier, more economical and less waste. 3) Use a razor rather than scissors to cut through the material. 4) For a larger project, apply Simple Mat one day and tile and grout the next day. 5) Leave the backing on until you're ready to do a section. Protect it from dust!!! 6) Wash and dry your tile. You can wipe whole pieces with a damp cloth. Any you cut should be rinsed. I set up an oil filled electric heater and prop the tiles in the fins to dry them. Use hot pads to handle them afterward. Porcelain tile really soaks up the water and needs to feel HOT to be dry or it won't stick. I find some heat helps with adhesion, too. 7) If tile won't stick it's because 1) the tile is not clean and dry or 2) you've allowed dust on the Simple Mat. If you mess up the adhesive, lay another piece in that small section, staggering the bumps so it's as flat as possible. 8) If you have an slightly uneven spot and the tile rocks, fill it with layers of Simple Mat to even it out. 9) You MUST tile and grout within 24 hours, so on a bigger project like a tub surround, do the back wall one day and the side walls another day. 10) Use spacers so the tile doesn't start to droop before you can grout. Yes, this stuff is really expensive, glorified fly paper, but it's AWESOME!!!!

I was excited the second I saw this product and knew it was the one I needed to buy when we were ready to tile our kitchen backsplash. It was not only easy to install, it did not require me to be precise to complete the project. So, a first time application looked like I hired a professional. Genius! I was able to complete my entire kitchen project in a day. Because it is a uniform product, my tile is even and I never worried about raised sections of tile. I could use portions of the mat to stick to my tile first for tricky sections that needed custom cuts - it worked perfectly! For the price point, I did not need to buy trowels, buckets, or any other products to make a standard thin set application. Most importantly - I didn't need to clean a thing. The cost was worth the outcome! I have shared this product with several coworkers who are a little timid with Do-It-Yourself projects, and they are inspired!

I used Simple Mat to tile the backsplash in my kitchen. I spent a few hours with a scraper removing old thin set and then I was ready to roll out the simple mat. It probably took 2.5 hours from laying the mat to applying the grout working at a leisurely for one wall with cabinets. I worked in about 3' sections to make sure the mat was positioned correctly on the wall. I used a grout float to make sure the mat was secure to the wall. Be careful about overlaps because it is a little tricky to feel the film off when you're ready to tile if its underneath another layer. When you're ready to work a section you simply peel off the film and set the tiles. I used 1"x1" glass tiles with a mesh backer and the process was very smooth. Unlike thin set I found trying to re-position the tiles a little more demanding but once I got my system down the re-work was minimal. Because I used small glass tiles I was able to cut easy around outlets and using a glass snips to make filler pieces around the outlets as needed. I used the float to press each sheet of tile onto the mat to ensure maximum adhesion. I finished off the project with grout and had zero issues with the tiles staying in place. I think Simple Mat probably saved me a few hours on this project and I'm very happy with the result. The package only comes with the adhesive mat so you'll need the spacers, a float, sponge, grout, and a cutting tool. The instructions recommend scissors but I used a box cutter.

Being a total amateur I've redone the countertop in only two days. I am pretty handy and crafty but I've never done any tile job. this makes it so easy. I bought both roll and sheets. The sheets are easier to use but roll was better for bigger surfaces, also much cheaper by sq. foot. I don't think it would be possible to cut smaller pieces from the roll. Sheets are easy to cut with scissors or utility knife. At one point my scissors got sticky and wouldn't cut.. I sprayed them with Goof-off and they were good to go again. Now I want to tile everything. Make sure your tiles are clean and dry. Just read and follow instructions and you'll be fine.

After reading the negative review on this product I took the plunge anyway based on my gut instinct. The material was difficult to cut with even with an industrial quality scissors (I recommend a 3-4' metal ruler on end and utility knife as it's very sticky.) Once cut, it was easy. I believe those that had problems may have not properly prepared the surface where the tile was placed. Kitchen walls are notorious for collecting grease. A thoroughly cleaned wall painted with eggshell finish paint allowed the product to adhere very well. One note, do not rip the masking off the other surface of the material until you are ready to actually place the tile. I believe the adhesive sets when exposed to air, so once again, those with issues probably ripped the masking off and allowed the adhesive to dry out prematurely. I did a small 2x2 foot area at a time. Results we're stunning, saved the 24-48 hour wait before grouting. Love the result.

DO NOT BUY THIS PRODUCT! We decided to try this product at our own house before we started using it for our Home Improvement business. Thank goodness we did! The product went on super easy and we had our kitchen backsplash done within a few hours. The next day we used our oven (backsplash is on side and behind oven) and everything was still great. By the next morning, ALL of the backsplash literally fell off the walls. After reading the reviews below, I have now realized that this product does not hold up with any kind of heat. The oven was literally on for 30 minutes. Trust me, do not use this product or be ready to wake up with it on the floor.

I have used this product before to edge a builder's grade bathroom mirror with glass tile. It turned out great. This project was installation of white penny tile to act as a backdrop for plain shelves in the hallway outside of the master bedroom. The product cuts easily with a utility knife or scissors. Just pull off the back protective film and press it against the wall. It works great for small tiles and holds well. Check out the picture I have attached.

The Simple Mat was certainly tempting. I did a kitchen backsplash (~25 square feet) and loved the idea of skipping the mortar and being able to grout on the same day. Just stick it on the wall, peel off the backing and stick your tiles. I bought the roll, which proved a bit difficult to cut to size. I found a razor knife worked much better than scissors, which kept sticking to the mesh. Would purchase the sheets if I used it again. The backing is very sticky and stuck well to the wall--no problems there. I used a 12 x 12 mesh square of 2 x 3 subway tiles. I was careful to make sure my tiles were clean and dry before placing them and I used a float to press them firmly against the Simple Mat. I removed the backing as I went to help avoid any dust getting on the Mat before the tiles were one. Anywhere I used a full mat of tiles they stayed up OK, for the most part (some sagging tiles here and there). But where I had to place individual tiles about 1 in 7-8 did not stay up, particularly the smaller pieces at the edges. Same problem with the decorative bead pieces. I ended up using construction adhesive to hold those to the mat. After grouting, everything seems to be OK, but I am concerned about the longevity. Had it not been midnight, I probably would have pulled it all down and redone the job with mortar instead. I would have much greater piece of mind about the backsplash staying up long term, and honestly, I don't think it would have added much time overall.

After reading the negative reviews on this product I was hesitant to embark on my back-splash project using SimpleMat. I can honestly say if it was any easier it would hang itself on the wall. I cut it using a utility knife, I pressed it to the wall using a paint roller, and I mounted 3" by 6" subway tiles onto it. I put the grout on 2 days later. It was easy to cut, there was little or no waste and I did not encounter any issues of tiles falling off or problems placing the tiles onto the SimpleMat. All you need is common sense and a reasonable amount of DIY ability. I had never done any tile work in my life, but the idea of avoiding the mess of a tile base held great appeal to me and the only thing I had to clean up was the paper backing from the SimpleMat. I consider it to be expensive but worth it. I only had to do 10 sf so it was not a big deal.

We used this product last year for a tile project in our remodeled kitchen last year, we spent $600 on glass tiles and it has held up perfectly. We didn't have any problems applying it to the walls and the tiles were set on the sheets within 24 hours...one year later still loving our tiles. We are using it again for tiles on the wall in our bathroom, again it has been easy, no mess.

This is a quick, fairly easy way to do a complete tile job in a short time. I typically use traditional mortar for tile, but I needed to do a small vanity backsplash and I wanted it done yesterday, so I decided to try SimpleMat to get it done in one work session. The hardest part was unrolling/trimming the adhesive in preparation for tiling, just because it is very sticky and you need to keep it completely unrolled so it doesn't stick to itself. I adhered the mat to a 4" tall synthetic backsplash, topped with a custom plywood filler that I used to build a small shelf behind my vanity (I custom made a vanity that is deeper than a standard top so I had some extra room for the shelf). Also, I followed the directions and had all my tiles laid out and cut to size ahead of time. Once the adhesive was trimmed and put in place, it was pretty easy to use a soft grout float to smooth out any air bubbles. Then I just started pressing tiles into place. I used a combination of small mosaic tiles with mesh backing (as narrow as 1/2" but several inches long) and 3"x12" bullnose for the top. It wasn't impossible to nudge tiles into place, or remove and reposition them, but it's not exactly easy and you need to work quickly. Also as suggested, I used the SimpleFix adhesive/caulk for any tiles that weren't making 100% contact with the backsplash surface. As soon as all the tiles were set (using spacers), I removed the spacers, opened the recommended pre-mixed grout and got to work. The next day I removed all the masking tape that was protecting my vanity top and caulked the seams along the walls (see photo - my vanity top is in a recessed niche with walls on both sides). The finished job looks gorgeous, and the whole process took me about 1-1/2 hours to lay the mat, set tile, and grout, plus another half hour for clean-up and caulk the next day. For bigger jobs or areas subject to more direct use (physical contact and/or moisture), I might still use mortar, but I'm glad I was able to finish this small job in no time flat.

This made it so easy to tile my backsplash over paint. The night before, I sanded with a coarse sanding block, wiped it down with a damp cloth, then cut and laid the Simple Mat. it was easy to cut with good scissors. In the morning I laid the tile (3x6 subway tile) then grouted and caulked. Every tile stuck without a problem, but when I made mistakes I could pry them off to move them. The whole project was done in a day without waiting for the thin-set to cure. (Note on the photo: the white on the countertop dried clear. While installing I realized there wasn't any sealant so I was getting grout in the cracks between the countertop and back piece).

The Simplemat roll "Simplified" our project. The ease of tiling was made that much more doable. We thought to ourselves, why did we wait so long? The no mess, easy stick on was a deal breaker- I can't wait for my next project!

We used this tile mat to install the counter and backsplash tiles in the attached picture. It is easy to install the mat and has terrific adhesive properties. One issue with this mat is that once you place the tile it is difficult, if not impossible, to adjust the tile without taking it back up and resetting it. It holds the tile securely in place-even on the wall.

Two hours later was falling off, my husband had to put liquid nail on to help. So hoping this helps or I am not going to be a happy lady! Followed all instructions still not a good product! Save yourself time and do it the right way!

Follow the directions, anything smaller then a 1"x1" will need additional mastic to hold in place. We experienced this around outlets for our kitchen back splash. Make sure you do not take the plastic surface sheet off until your ready to apply the back splash and ensure your using a grout float to push the tile on the mat.

This is so easy to use! Cut to size, peel & stick, then place tiles! True to its description, it holds the tile in place and makes installation very simple! And no thin set mess or waiting to grout! Recommend highly!

Firstly, let me put out there that I am a busy mom, I do not have enough hours in the day to work outside and still take care of the home, but I digress.I had a small project for my half bath to install glass tile around the sink. I was shopping around for mortar for my project and stumbled across this product. I figured well, considering I have no experience installing tile other than vinyl floor tiles, I could give it a try. The hardest part about installing my backsplash was cutting a few tiles. This product made my project a breeze and I am very happy with the results. Unless I told them, no one would be able to know that I cheated. My next project on my to-do list is kitchen backsplash and I will for sure be using this again.

I just did a small tile project in my laundry room with this product. I did a back splash around the tub that i bathe my dogs in...OMG, how easy and beautiful...the picutres I took are like day and night...Anyone can do this women or children...men included. I give this a thumbs up. Thank you...the product I had for a year but that didn't keep it from going bad..it was like butter..no problems. Easy to come off the backing and cut into whatever shape you want it to be in. In no time I was able to grout it..and put on the trim.

We had to purchase a roll of this product or our kitchen project in addition to Simplemat sheets. We ended-up using only half of this roll and the reasons are these: 1. Have you ever tried to cut fly sticky paper? Well this is one GIANT fly sticky paper as adhesive (that adheres to base surface) is completely exposed once you unroll the product. Please do NOT use scissors. You will be crying. A very sharp knife, perhaps, would do the trick. The plastic that covers the tile-side glue is non-existent. 2. The glue drops that are intended to adhere to tiles are limited compared to the "sheet" product - not as many, thus your tiles will have limited exposure to stick on. 3. Do contractors REALLY use this product? One would think that contractors would utilize REAL adhesives such as thinset or other various products for REAL longevity of their projects. Our opinion - this product should not be called "Contractor Roll," but something else - "Tile Setting Jumbo Mat" for example. Otherwise it sounds deceptive - we simply do not see how contractors can use this product for PROFESSIONAL installations. 4. We ended-up removing tiles adhered to this product with The Product because it was coming off the wall in section. Waterproof Liquid Nails was our life saver at that point. How sad. Good product, otherwise, for counters, back-splashes for HOMEOWNER DO IT YOURSELF installations ONLY. Just our .02...