I've searched this topic and the consensus seems to be pull up the vinyl floor. Nevertheless, I'm going to ask anyway. When it's your money and home on the line you want to be sure. My home is 8 years old. It has a concrete slab and rolled vinyl in the kitchen and hall bath. The installer came out to our home for an estimate and told us we would not have to pull up the current vinyl floor. He could tile right over it. He would pull up the flooring if we elected to, but he tells us he usually doesn't unless the flooring is in poor condidition, which ours is not. He went on to say some of the ceramic dealers suggest pulling up vinyl regardless of condition because it allows them to make a little extra on the installation. I've decided to have him pull up the vinyl in both rooms, which isabout 375 sq ft. He's going to charge us .50 per sqft to pull it all up. My first question is - is there any truth to what he's saying about some tile dealers ? Secondly, is .50 per sqft an acceptable charge for a consumer to pay for pulling up a vinyl floor ?

I am planning to install ceramic tile on my kitchen floor. The original underlayment floor has been damaged in several spots by moisture and I plan to replace all of it. I have several questions and appreciate any help.  What is the best grade of plywood to use and can the tile be laid on top of this new underlayment, without the need for a cement backer board? Currently the sub floor and ½” plywood are over 1” thick; I was thinking on using 5/8” thick exterior grade plywood.  Should ceramic tile be installed over the areas where cabinets will be placed? Seems like a waste except under the sink where a moisture barrier may be useful. I also will install a small 15” cabinet next to a range and may have to secure it to the floor since it will not hit two wall studs.  Also, does anyone know of an economical ceramic tile floor heating system? I have seen systems by “Warmly Yours” but they seem pricey. Thanks in advance.