Remove linoleum before laying tiles

Q. We have a floor covered with linoleum tiles and would like to have ceramic tiles. Can we install the ceramic tiles over the linoleum?

A. In general, it is not a good idea to install ceramic tiles over old flooring of this type. It is possible the old tiles might be vinyl or even vinyl-asbestos, but the rules probably hold up for any of them.

For example, if this is cushioned flooring, which is a bit flexible and soft to make it easier on the feet, ceramic tiles should definitely not be installed on top.

If it is vinyl-asbestos, an old version of vinyl tiles that are usually nine inches square, trying to install new tiles over them could even be dangerous. The flooring should be sanded to provide better adhesion for the ceramics, and sanding vinyl-asbestos tiles can release asbestos into the air – a serious health hazard.

If the old flooring is hard, smooth, adhering well and in good condition, and you are sure it is not cushioned or vinyl-asbestos, you could sand it and try a ceramic-tile installation, but again it is not a good idea.

Ceramic tiles should have a proper base or underlayment, such as cement backer board. One alternative is to install backer board over the existing tiles.

Another option, if the old flooring is in good condition, is to clean it thoroughly and install new self-stick vinyl tiles instead of ceramics.

Many attractive patterns are available in modern vinyl tiles, and they are relatively inexpensive and have fewer installation problems than ceramics.

Another important factor when installing ceramic-tile floors is that the floor itself must be well supported and without any spring or flexing. If the floor is not rigid, the result can be cracked grout or even cracked tiles.

Q. I am often bothered by mosquitoes on my property even though I have tried sprays, candles and other remedies that are supposed to chase them. What else can I do?

A. Take a good look at the area around you to help determine where the mosquitoes are coming from. Any standing water, even a little of it, can be a breeding place for mosquitoes, and they breed rapidly.

For example, if you have birdbaths or wading pools in your yard, change the water at least once a week. Check for standing water in rain gutters, plant trays – containers of any kind that can hold water. Even old tires can collect water and breed mosquitoes.

If you have a swimming pool, keep the water circulating to help prevent breeding. Fill depressions in your yard with topsoil and plant grass seed to keep puddles from forming.

Mosquito repellents on exposed skin can help, and it also helps to wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants.

Remember that mosquitoes can be a serious health hazard as well as a nuisance, and if the problem continues contact your local health department for advice and help. In some cases, entire neighborhoods need to be sprayed.

Q. A friend told me there is a wall paint that helps control household odors. Can you tell me more about it?

A. The paint is probably Dutch Boy’s Refresh.

Dutch Boy says Refresh contains ”Arm & Hammer odor-eliminating technology,” which some sources say is basically baking soda. Refresh is supposed to help absorb all sorts of household odors.

A ceiling paint as well as wall paint is available, and Dutch Boy recommends painting ceilings also for best results.

I have no personal experience with Refresh and don’t know of any independent tests. Unless your walls and ceilings really need painting, a couple of saucers containing baking soda placed here and there and replenished occasionally should serve the same purpose.

The paint costs about $23 a gallon. If you do need to paint and try Dutch Boy, you’ll like the wide-mouthed plastic containers, which won’t rust and spoil leftover paint or leak like some metal containers.

For more information, visit www.dutchboy.com/refresh.