Removing old vinyl tiles

[sparkyboy]

What is the best way to remove old vinyl (or more likely vinyl asbestos floor tiles) which are on a cement/sand screed?
I have tried scrapers under tile edge but they are well and truly stuck (seems like a black bitumen type adhesive).
Is it a good idea to use a heat gun to soften the adhesive?

 

[SparkyMarky]

Sounds like you're about to attempt the worst job known to man. I did my kitchen floor about a month ago and I still have nightmares about it.

In the end I used a heat gun to soften the tiles and then prised them up with a scraper. It's hard work though, and you'll probably end up with your hands covered in blisters. I've since found out that HSS hire out vinyl floor tile removing machines but I've never seen them used so I don't know how effective they are. They're quite pricey too...

 

[sparkyboy]

Many thanks for filling me with confidence sparkymarky!
Lets fire up the hot air gun then.............