Flooring Tile - Laying ceramic tile over existing vinyl tile

I want to lay new ceramic tile over an existing vinyl tile floor. The existing vinyl tile sits on a concrete slab, is old, dull, but otherwise in good shape, and seems to provide a smooth, firm surface for applying ceramic tile. Is there anything wrong with doing this? I've seen other forum items that indicate I should remove the old flooring, but I don't understand why. I'll do it if I have to, but I'd rather avoid the extra labor involved (of course).

Remove the vinyl tiles. If you do not, it is very likely that a year or two down the road your ceramic tiles will loosen, and the grout joints will begin to crack. The ceramic, along with the thin set adhesive, will exert a force that is sure to make the above happen.

Do the labor.

John

http://www.johnbridge.com

Thanks, John, for the quick reply. I'll do the labor and remove the old vinyl tiles. I should know, it never really pays to try and cut corners.