When it comes to choosing a flooring option for your home. It can be overwhelming to decide between the various options available. Two of the most popular choices are wood laminate flooring and vinyl flooring. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, and understanding. These differences are key to making an informed decision. In this article, we will see do termites eat vinyl flooring.
Although many homeowners believe that termites only eat through solid hardwood flooring. The truth is that those little buggers can also damage the sublayer on laminate flooring. The tricky part about assessing possible termite damage is that an infestation looks very much like water damage.

Do Termites Eat Vinyl Flooring?

Yes, termites can eat vinyl flooring if it contains cellulose. Which are a component of many types of vinyl flooring and a food source for termites.

Visually, when water damage occurs. It appears as sagging sections in the laminate flooring. Likewise, termite issues will also produce a sagging, blistered effect in laminate flooring areas. However, upon closer inspection, you’ll see a series of tunneling. Situated predominantly beneath the buckled tile areas. Which are holes created by termites “chewing” through your flooring.
Unfortunately, once you notice all of this damage. The flooring is beyond repair and needs to be completely replaced. Since this infestation can affect the entire structure of your home. Avoid the financial burden, as well as any accompanying stress, and prevent. These beasties from eating your home for dinner!

The (Disheartening) Telltale Signs of Termite Infestation

How Can Homeowners Tell If They Have Insect Squatters
So, how can homeowners tell if they have insect squatters that are living inside their walls and laminate flooring? When it comes down to it, it’s all about reading the telltale signs. Since these wood-eating insects live deep in the soil, or in wooden structures. Such as the walls and flooring of your home. It is highly unlikely that you’ll ever have any up-close-and-personal contact with termites.
As homeowners are usually unaware of their unwanted housemates until it’s too late. You’ll want to be watchful for these three telltale termite signs:

Three Telltale Termite Signs

1) Termite frass is (surprise, surprise) wood-colored, ridged pellets that are very small in size. You’ll find little piles throughout your home near their entry points.
2) Mostly noticeable at wall joints and bases, termites produce a mud-like, earthen-colored packing. On the laminate flooring wood surface, or on the ground surface outdoors.
3) As termites hollow out hardwood and laminate floors during their excavation process. You’ll hear audible tapping noises once your floors and walls have become severely infested.
Call Completely Floored for Laminate Flooring Questions
At Completely Floored. We’re here to educate our customers on how they can prevent laminate flooring problems. Such as termite infestation and damage. Come into our Completely Floored showroom, located in Everett, WA. And talk to our flooring pros about how you can eliminate problematic conditions that would encourage an infestation. Such as wood-to-ground house contact, or excessive amounts of humidity and ambient moisture. If you’re interested in laminate flooring, you’ll want to talk to our on-site flooring experts!

Durability and Longevity

Wood laminate flooring is made of high-density fiberboard with a photo-realistic print of natural wood grain on top. This makes it resistant to scratches, dents, and general wear and tear, making it a popular choice for high-traffic areas. On the other hand, vinyl flooring is made of durable. Waterproof material that can withstand heavy foot traffic and is easy to clean. However, while it is highly durable, it is not as scratch-resistant as wood laminate flooring.

Maintenance and Care

When it comes to maintenance and care, wood laminate flooring requires regular cleaning and occasional re-coating to maintain its appearance. Vinyl flooring, on the other hand, requires very little maintenance. Only occasional cleaning is required to keep it looking its best.
Cost
In terms of cost, vinyl flooring is generally more affordable. Than wood laminate flooring, with the latter being a more premium option. However, it is worth noting that the long-term cost of vinyl flooring can be higher. Due to the need for replacement more frequently than wood laminate flooring.
Appearance
When it comes to appearance, wood laminate flooring provides a natural look and feel. While vinyl flooring is available in a range of colors and designs to suit different tastes. However, wood laminate flooring can often appear less realistic than vinyl flooring. And can have a plastic-like appearance, especially over time.
Environmentally Friendly
In terms of environmental impact. Wood laminate flooring is made of natural materials. Considered to be a more environmentally friendly option than vinyl flooring. Which is made of plastic and other synthetic materials.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both wood laminate flooring and vinyl flooring have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, budget, and the specific requirements of your home. If you are looking for a durable, low-maintenance option, vinyl flooring may be the best choice for you. If you prefer a natural look and feel and are willing to invest in a premium option. Wood laminate flooring may be the better choice.