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Yes, you can install a backsplash directly onto drywall, provided the wall is properly prepped, clean, and dry. For best results, especially in kitchen areas, your walls should be made of moisture-resistant drywall, often called green board. If your current wall isn't moisture-resistant, it's recommended to replace it before installing the backsplash. For even greater protection against water damage, you can remove the existing drywall and install a tile backer board or cement board instead. While properly installed standard drywall is typically strong enough to support a backsplash, some local building codes may require water-resistant materials in kitchen areas, so it's a good idea to check.

As long as you follow the instructions on your peel-and-stick tile packaging, it should not damage your walls. A possible instance when you may accidentally damage your walls is if you install tiles improperly using additional adhesives that aren’t recommended.

Also, you can damage your walls if you’re not careful when removing tile. For example, you could accidentally make holes in the drywall with a paint scraper if you don’t heat the adhesive long enough before trying to pry it off.

While tile is the best option in the bathtub, don’t forget to consider the flooring around the wash station. Moisture-holding carpet is a no-no, but is tile or vinyl better for dogs? Tile flooring is tough, moisture-resistant, cool, and scratch-proof. However, it’s more tricky to install and costs more than vinyl flooring. If you opt for vinyl, select tough luxury vinyl flooring; otherwise, canine claws could quickly damage the surface of standard, budget vinyl.

Yes, it would be best if you waterproofed your shower walls before tiling. The cement backing board behind the tile is not waterproof; it’s only water-resistant. On top of your tile backing board, be sure to use a waterproof shower membrane before you start installing your shower tiles.