To install ceramic tile over wood the wood surface must be structurally sound enough to support the weight of the tile.
How to lay ceramic tile on wood.
Finish laying the tiles for the first couple of rows placing 1 8 inch spacers in between the tiles and frequently checking that the tiles are even and level.
Chipboard cushioned vinyl flooring particle boards of any type oriented strand board osb interior grade plywood tongue and groove planking and hardwood floors are unsuitable substrates for direct installation of ceramic tile.
Take the time to do the right amount of prep work before you begin.
Installing vinyl tiles over wood.
Installing vinyl tiles over wood requires slightly less prep work than ceramic or stone tile.
Laying tile to veneer plywood risks loosening and unbonding the veneer creating an unstable base for the tile.
Installing over wood.
Laying tile over a plywood subfloor can be tricky but if you prepare the sub floor properly your tile floor will last for a lifetime.
Be careful to not stagger the joints more than 1 3 the length of tile.
This old house recommends securing a 1 2 inch sheet of cement board.