If you have vinyl or ceramic flooring, there are a few options for installing new tile. You can remove the existing flooring material, tile over the old floor, or lay backerboard directly over a vinyl floor and then install the new tiles on it. In any case, make sure the subflooring is adequate to support the weight of the new floor.

Resilient sheet or tile flooring: Resilient flooring may be made from asbestos, asphalt, linoleum, or vinyl. You can lay stone or ceramic tile directly over resilient flooring if it is smooth and does not have another layer of flooring or cushioning underneath it. Glossy surfaces need to be scuffed with a sanding block for the thinset to adhere.

If you need to remove the old flooring, use a scraper or a prybar and hammer if it is stubborn. (However, if it is asbestos-based flooring, call in a professional removal company.) You can also soften the adhesive to facilitate removal using a hot iron. Place a cloth over the flooring and iron back and forth for about ten seconds. Repeat the process if the flooring still doesn't come up easily.

Stone or ceramic tile: If you want to install new stone or ceramic tile on top of old tiles, first make sure they are securely attached. Use a tile stone, grinder, or belt sander to scuff glazed tile or the thinset will not adhere properly.

Before setting any tile, lay out the new tiles on top of the old to see how they will sit. Use thinset in the old grout lines to level uneven areas, and allow it to dry completely before proceeding.

If you must remove the old tiles before laying the new floor, you will need a cold chisel and hammer, particularly if they were set in mortar.