Why ALU Peel and Stick Tiles Cost More? Process Explanation
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Lesezeit 5 min
ALU peel and stick tiles grab everyone's attention in the market for their premium pricing, but some customers back off at the price check. They underestimate the benefits of aluminum tiles, which are hidden in their slightly overpriced value. Originally, their manufacturing process and advantages justified the cost. They also offer superior heat resistance, durability and aesthetics as compared to traditional PVC or vinyl tiles.
So, let's delve into the details. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the steps involved in tile production, material costs, and performance advantages to help consumers understand why they are worth the investment.
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Table of Content
Material Cost Analysis
Aluminum peel and stick tiles cost more than other counterparts for some valid reasons. This detailed breakdown will help in better understanding:
Aluminum Film Layer
The topmost layer of aluminum tiles is a thickened aluminum film (≥ 0.1mm thickness) that is skillfully embossed for a distinctive metallic finish. The process of embossing, coating and treating aluminum is quite labor-intensive and involves specialised machinery (plus expertise), all of which contribute to the overall price of the product.
Fluctuating international aluminum prices are also a key factor in the price hikes of ALU peel and stick tiles.
Base and Auxiliary Layers
Aluminum tiles are known for their sleek and smooth finish. This smoothness is a result of careful blending of a durable PVC base material with stone powder or carbon powder. The mixing of these materials is a controlled process (involving cost and labor), and any inconsistency can affect the tile's smoothness and overall quality.
Similarly, the lower layer of polymer protective film gives the tile a solid foundation with exceptional wear and tear resistance.
Environmental Certification
In this eco-conscious world, aluminum peel and stick tiles are manufactured considering environmental stability. It involves the use of low-VOC adhesives that are safer for use in indoor environments but are comparatively expensive than standard ones.
Manufacturers also opt for environmentally-friendly processes like lead-free coatings to comply with international standards such as REACH. The time and cost investment in quality control and environmental testing for certification itself adds significant cost to the production of ALU peel and stick tiles.
Manufacturing Process Complexity
Unlike traditional PVC stickers, which are produced by simple printing onto PVC and applying a laminate layer, aluminum peel-and-stick tiles undergo a series of complex steps. The multi-step process is described here:
Roll-Lamination Technology
Roll-lamination is a key process in the production of ALU peel and stick tiles, requiring precision and accuracy. The process involves applying a layer of aluminum film and a polymer film on both sides of a PVC substrate under controlled conditions.
During the process, a specific temperature range typically between 120 °C and 180 °C is maintained for effective bonding. Both films adhere to the PVC substrate without material degradation or issues like bubbling or delamination.
Similarly, a highly controlled pressure ( 125 psi and 150 psi) is applied using a CNC press to ensure aluminum and polymer films are pressed uniformly. Next, the tiles are allowed to cool for 18 to 22 minutes to solidify the adhesive.
Further Readings
→ How to Seal Your Floors with Vinyl Tile for Extended Floor Life
→ ALU Peel and Stick Backsplash for Restaurants: Heat Proof & Easy Clean
Surface Treatments
After lamination, the tiles are subjected to surface treatments for premium gloss and finish. Anodising is one of the techniques in which aluminum is immersed in an electrolyte bath to create a durable oxide layer on the tile surface to enhance its corrosion resistance. Similarly, high-gloss coating gives a smooth and reflective finish to the aluminum tiles. All these methods are worth the effort, but are time-consuming and energy-intensive, which adds to the overall cost.
Quality Control
In the final stage, manufactured tiles undergo water and heat resistance tests to confirm their durability and suitability to real-world use.
ALU Peel and Stick Tiles Advantages
Aluminum tiles are packed with countless benefits, and on top of that, they are highly durable. Their average life span is over 5 years, which makes them a cost-effective option in the long run. On the contrary, traditional vinyl stickers last between 1 to 2 years and need replacement more often.
Similarly, peel and stick backsplash tiles are exceptionally heat-resistant. They can withstand temperatures up to 120 °C and are ideal for high temperature areas such as stovetops, ovens, and kitchen counters.
Aluminum tiles are easy to clean and maintain. Their non-porous surface resists dirt and grime, offering quick cleaning. This low-maintenance also makes them most suitable for high-traffic areas such as restaurants and commercial settings.
The tiles are also DIY-friendly and cut down the professional installation cost.
Market and Brand Factors
The market for aluminum peel and stick tiles is relatively niche, and only a few brands, such as Britwall, can offer quality products. This low competition results in brand dominance, allowing them to charge a high price for their products.
These tiles offer customers considerable customisation options, allowing them to choose designs according to their preferences. For instance, the HexaStyle series offers a huge range of customizable patterns and sizes, allowing customers to follow their aesthetic preferences, albeit at an extra cost.
Manufacturers also provide a 5-year warranty to cover potential replacement costs. Standard vinyl or PVC tiles do not offer such an added benefit.
FAQs
Why are ALU tiles so much more expensive than regular PVC tiles?
ALU tiles are significantly more expensive than regular PVC tiles due to their complex manufacturing process, which makes them robust and highly durable, enabling them to withstand rough and tough use. Traditional PVC tiles lack such characteristics.
Can I install them myself to save costs?
Yes, you can install ALU tiles by yourself as they are DIY-friendly with no need of additional adhesive, grouting or specialised tools.
How can I identify high-quality ALU tiles?
High-quality ALU tiles are easily identifiable by key indicators, such as a 0.1 mm aluminum film thickness, a smooth and reflective finish, no signs of bubbles, and eco-friendly certifications.
Is it worth investing in ALU tiles for rental properties?
Investing in ALU tiles for rental properties is worth it considering their long-term benefits and minimal upkeep to maintain an aesthetically appealing interior.
Where can I buy reliable products?
Yipscazo is one of the most trusted ALU peel and stick tile manufacturers known for exceptional quality and durability, offering lightweight, waterproof and easy-to-clean tiles at a highly competitive price.
Conclusion
Aluminum peel and stick tiles may come with a hefty price tag, but their overall cost is not directly linked to brand premiums. It is a sum of the high-end materials used in their manufacturing, quality-controlled processing and testing, craftsmanship and their long-term performance. So, these tiles are a worthwhile investment for those seeking aesthetic, easy-to-clean and durable options for a more extended period.
