how bad are the fumes after a house termite treatment

by Myra Ullrich Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago

Is it safe to live in a house after termite fumigation?

After the fumigation process, the house needs to be aerated for a minimum of 12 hours. Furthermore, all the harmful gasses would dissipate. A clearance from the exterminator will ensure that your house is safe for occupancy. The biggest risk is inhaling the gas. Also, fumigation isn’t the most eco-friendly choice of all termite treatments.

Can termite treatment be harmful?

A: Most termite treatments are chemical-based, which needs professional handling of licensed exterminators only. Also, direct contact with termiticides will lead to irritation and complications for those with underlying health conditions. Q2: Can termite treatment make you sick?

What to expect after termite fumigation?

To know what to expect after termite fumigation, read below. After termite fumigation, it is safe to re-enter with your pets, plants, fish, etc. You can open all of the sealed bags you used with your canned foods, medicines, fruits, vegetables, etc., and put them back in place.

Does termiticide kill Termite Feeding?

The newer, non-repellent termiticides have very high success rates at eliminating termite feeding in a home, even if every potential termite entry point cannot be treated.

Is termite fumigation harmful to humans?

The chemicals or vapors used in fumigation services are hazardous to humans and animals, but when done right, the process is totally safe. Sulfuryl fluoride is mostly used for fumigation services and is not federally regulated as a hazardous air pollutant by any state.

How toxic is termite treatment?

Many methods used to eliminate termites involve chemicals that could be dangerous when not handled properly. If applied correctly by a professional, termite control products are quite safe and people do not typically suffer from any residual effects.

Is it safe to stay in house after termite treatment?

What type of preparation is necessary? You cannot stay in your home during structural fumigation and neither can your pets or plants. You need to remove any living thing from your property for the duration of the treatment. You also need to pack your food and medicine in special bags designed for this process.

Is termite gas toxic?

Sulfuryl fluoride is a highly toxic (toxicity category I) gas fumigant used for termite control of homes and buildings.

What are the side effects of fumigation?

Fumigation SafetyMild inhalation exposure can cause a feeling of sickness, ringing in the ears, fatigue, nausea and tightness in the chest. ... Moderate inhalation exposure can cause weakness, vomiting, chest pain, diarrhea, difficulty breathing and pain just above the stomach.More items...•

How long do you stay out of house after termite tenting?

You'll have to make arrangements to be away from your property for a minimum of 24 hours but some fumigation appointments may take as long as 72 hours to completely dissipate the chemicals inside.

Does your house smell after fumigation?

Fumigation will leave behind the remains of dead termites. This will cause no smell and is no hazard to human health; however, occasionally ants will enter a home to feast on the dead termites. If this occurs your options are to wait it out or to request an ant treatment.

Is Vikane gas harmful to humans?

Vikane® specialty gas fumigant is odorless. Exposure to toxic levels may occur without warning or detection by the user. In all cases of overexposure, such as nausea, difficulty in breathing, abdominal pain, slowing of movements and speech, numbness in extremities, get medical attention immediately.

How do I clean my house after termite fumigation?

Use a damp cloth to wipe surfaces around the house to get rid of any dust and fumigants. After using the cloth discard it immediately. Make a 50-50 solution of water and vinegar. With the solution repeat the wiping process not forgetting about the cabinets, doorknobs, drawers, and cupboards.

What happens if you eat food exposed to Vikane gas?

Will that cause me harm? No adverse health effects would be expected from consumption of some food items inadvertently fumigated with Vikane. The residue that can form in unprotected food items exposed to Vikane is fluoride, which naturally occurs in food and water.

What does Vikane gas smell like?

Vikane is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas.

Does fumigation leave a smell?

The fumigant is a pure gas and therefore there is no odor or smell from the gas. A warning agent (typically chloropicrin) is introduced to the house as well, and occasionally, this product can have a residual smell.

First, What Are Termites?

Termites are wood-eating insects that can seriously damage homes and any other structures made of wood. They are similar to ants in size and appear...

Why Is Termite Tenting A Cause For Concern?

When the tent is removed, the poison escapes into the atmosphere. The chemicals used in this fumigation process, and other termite treatments, caus...

Alternatives to Termite Tenting

Researchers and healthcare providers encourage using less toxic and harmful pesticides to eradicate termites. According to the University of Kentuc...

If Tenting Is Your only Option

While there are several options available to eradicate termites, tenting is often recommended when there is widespread infestation. If tenting is y...

What is termite baiting?

Baiting. The termite baiting process is complicated and, as with other termite treatments, should be handled by professionals only. Basically, the process involves placing paper or cardboard treated with a slow-acting poison. Termites are attracted to the bait, eat it, and eventually die.

What is the name of the drug that kills termites?

Premise® (imidacloprid -- implicated in the death of honeybees around the world), Termidor® (fipronil ), and Phantom® (chlorfenapyr), are non-repellent and kill termites tunneling into the treatment zone.

How long does sulfuryl fluoride stay in the atmosphere?

The chemical, sulfuryl fluoride (SF), stays in the atmosphere perhaps as long as 100 years.

What is the best way to treat termites in a tent?

According to the University of Kentucky Entomology Department, there are two other options to tent treatment for termites: baiting and liquid soil application.

What happens when a tent is removed?

When the tent is removed, the poison escapes into the atmosphere. The chemicals used in this fumigation process, and other termite treatments, cause many experts to worry about environmental and physical health.

How long did it take for a couple to die from having their home tented?

The Center for Disease Control reported that a Virginia couple died within seven days of having their home tented and fumigated. According to the CDC, the exterminators "failed to measure the air concentration of SF inside the home.".

Is termite protection important?

If you’re like most people, your home is the single largest financial investment of your life. Protecting that investment from threats such as termites is a high priority. On the other hand, you don’t want to take pest control measures that may be potentially harmful to human beings.

How to get rid of fumigants in house?

All the windows should be opened and fans should be used to get rid of any traces of fumigants in the house. Keep the home ventilated for a few days to remove all the chemical fumes left inside. Next, you should wash all the dishes and utensils left inside the house during the treatment.

How long should you keep pets away from a fumigator?

While the pest control experts give the exact answer, you should keep the pets away for at least 24 hours to allow complete dissipation of fumigants.

How long does sulphur fluoride stay in the atmosphere?

One of these gases, sulphur fluoride contributes to global warming. It can stay in the atmosphere for as long as a century. This gas can trap heat up to 4000 times more than carbon dioxide and is a powerful pollutant.

Can fumigation cause neurological damage?

Chemicals released during fumigation can cause neurological damage. Fumigation experts always warn the homeowners about these dangers and advise them on safety precautions. If you experience any symptoms of chemical exposure, you should need medical attention immediately.

Is fumigation gas dangerous?

Inhaling Fumigation Gas. The most common dangers associated with fumigation is the risk of exposure to the gas. While this is something that can be prevented by following the professionals’ advice, inhaling fumigation gas can be really dangerous.

Can fumigation gas kill you?

While these effects are treatable, full exposure to fumigation gas can prove to be fatal and lead to death. Sometimes, inhaling fumigation gas might not show instant side effects and the person thinks nothing has happened. However, the chemicals can enter the body and show adverse health effects in the long run.

Can fumigation gas cause nausea?

Inhaling the concentrated fumes after the process can cause instant effects like nausea, vomiting, coughing, red eyes, sweating, itchy skin, excessive saliva secretion, running stomach and difficulty breathing. While these effects are treatable, full exposure to fumigation gas can prove to be fatal and lead to death.

How effective is sulfuryl fluoride for termites?

Advertisement. Despite the environmental risks, sulfuryl fluoride is one of the most effective ways to kill termites that could otherwise destroy your home.

What is the chemical used to kill termites?

While methyl bromide once served as the primary chemical for termite tenting, it has been phased out in favor of odorless, colorless sulfuryl fluoride. The sulfuryl fluoride is mixed with chloropicrin, a form of tear gas, which helps warn anyone who comes near the house that a dangerous chemical is present.

What is the PPM level for termite tenting?

When termite tenting is performed properly, occupants are not cleared to re-enter the home until levels have reached below 1 ppm , a level set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Advertisement.

What is termite tenting?

House tenting, otherwise known as "structural fumigation," is a localized method of pest control that is commonly used when other forms of pest removal would be untenable.

How long do termites stay in a tent?

During termite tenting, the occupants of the home, including plants and pets, must find somewhere else to live for two to three days due to fumigation dangers. Pest control professionals drape the house in heavy sheets of vinyl-coated nylon tarps, then secure these with tape and plastic sheeting to form a tent around the home.

Can you use tenting to kill termites?

In some instances, tenting can be used in homes, businesses and other structures to remove beetles, bed bugs and termites. Before choosing to use tenting in your home or office, there are some things that should be considered, however, as this method of pest control can prove fatal to humans, pets or plants if proper precautions are not taken.

Is sulfuryl fluoride harmful to the environment?

Though this gas no longer poses an immediate threat to the home's occupants, it does pose certain dangers to the environment. Sulfuryl fluoride is a potent greenhouse gas, and contributes to global warming.

How to get rid of dead termites in house?

Most probably you will find dead termites somewhere in the house. If this happens, collect them using vacuum cleaner. Don’t forget to clean this bag outside of the house. Don’t forget to use vacuum cleaner to clean floors and other spaces under furniture. You will have to move furniture if it is needed.

What is the chemical gas used to kill termites?

Other chemical gases are called vaporized methyl and sulfuryl bromides. These pesticides are used for tent fumigation and their aim is to kill all termites inside of the house.

How to clean a house that is not bagged?

If these things were not bagged, you will have to wash them as well. Open all the doors and windows for extra air ventilation of your house. All possible dry surfaces are to be wiped with wet cloth. When you finish wiping, you need to throw this cloth away.

What chemicals are used in tent fumigation?

There are different chemicals which are used for tent fumigation and they are all toxic. The first one is chloropicrin. It is also called tear gas. The name sounds strange but exterminators may use it at the beginning of fumigation.

What is tent fumigation?

Tent fumigation consists of several simple stages which are not easy to be performed. Firstly, exterminators seal the house under the tent, and secondly, make it full of pois onous gas using different bombs and foggers. Fumigation is done with special chemicals which do not have smell and color. During fumigation no people, pets or plants are ...

What to clean before tent fumigation?

The list of those things is quite long: food, toys, medicines, tobacco, clothes, all the things with plastic covering, etc. Make sure you have checked all the list and try to do wet cleaning before tent fumigation (in order to get rid of dust which may collect poisonous particles).

How to fix carpet fumigation?

There are two ways how you can solve your carpet problem (this can be said about mattresses as well): Call a professional cleaning company which has experience with cleaning after tent fumigation. You can air ventilate your carpet. But this option will take a lot of time.

Brief History Of Termites

Termites are an insect that can be found all over the world with a diet that consists of wood. There are two types of common termites and each has different jobs: the worker and the swarmer termite. They have many similarities to the carpenter ant both in size and function.

Types Of Termite Fumigation

There are several types of termite fumigation, but the most popular options are tenting and spot treatment. Each has its benefits, but both are well-vetted as remedies for termite infestations.

What To Do Before Termite Fumigation

There are several things you must do before fumigation. Most importantly, remove any living things in your home. This includes pets (including fish) and any indoor plants as they will die from the chemicals.

What To Do After Termite Fumigation

Termites cause a whole slew of damages, and fumigation has aftercare that can take some time. The fumigation process can be long and grueling; if done correctly, you can reap the rewards for years to come.

Preventative Care

Now that you’ve concluded the fumigation process, it’s time to start thinking about the future. Here are some ways to prevent further damage:

Why do termites stay around after pesticides?

For instance, it might take a few days for some termites to die. Also, not all pesticides kill termite eggs that may have stayed behind. Even if you have newly hatched eggs, they won’t survive for very long without the colony.

What happens when termites hit windows?

Termites leave behind frass in small holes and tunnels around the windowsills. When you slam closed doors and windows, the frills will surface for you to find. Wiping down the area and adding a new coat of paint will take care of the problem.

What are termite droppings?

Termite Droppings. Don’t freak out if you still find termite droppings after the fumigation. You don’t have to call the exterminator if you see droppings. Droppings are also known as frass, and you might see them on your windowsills. Termites leave behind frass in small holes and tunnels around the windowsills.

Can termites live in trees?

Keep in mind that there are termites that may linger in trees or subter ranean termites. Unless you treat the entire property, you risk these termites finding their way into your home. Make sure you treat the property to prevent another infestation.

Can you put your house back in order after termite fumigation?

Put Your House Back in Order. After termite fumigation, it is safe to re-enter with your pets, plants, fish, etc. You can open all of the sealed bags you used with your canned foods, medicines, fruits, vegetables, etc., and put them back in place. You can now close all of your windows, blinds, cabinet drawers, and anything you had to open ...

Can you see other pests after termite fumigation?

Know That You May See Other Pests. Once you go back to your house after the termite fumigation, you may still see other pests . Unless your home has been treated to prevent other pests, these little critters could sneak into your house. These bugs will show up at your house to feed on the dead termites that hide in your house.

Can termites enter through a door?

Subterranean termites will enter through door frames, decks or porches, or any other structure that has wood-to-ground contact. On the other hand, drywood termites will enter through any cracks or crevices in a building’s structure, which means they can enter at any level of your home or office.

Can termites re-enter my home?

Activities such as digging or planting where this barrier exists can leave a gap for termites to re-enter your home or office, so it’s important to maintain an ongoing relationship with your pest control professional to ensure year-round protection.

Can termites be treated?

Unfortunately, they can. Termite treatment is very involved and requires ongoing maintenance to keep these pests out. Once your termite problem is fully treated, our termite control professionals will work to create a barrier around your home that will deter termites from returning.

Can termites come back after treatment?

Whether you currently have a termite problem or have had one in the past, you might be curious to know if these pests can come back after treatment. Unfortunately, the answer is yes. However, there are ways that you can work to proactively prevent another termite infestation; our team can help you understand the steps you should take ...

How long should you leave your house after termite treatment?

As an added precaution, children and pregnant women should plan to leave the home during an application and the home aired out for 1-2 hours following treatment.

How to tell if a house has termites?

Second, examine the foundation of your home to see whether mud shelter tubes are present that might indicate termite activity.

What are the most common termites in Texas?

A. The most common termite pest species in Texas are subterranean termites in the genus Reticulitermes. Another termite species, the Formosan termite, Coptotermes formosanus, is a foreign pest that has become established in California, Hawaii, and parts of the southern U.S. including some areas of Texas. This species is more destructive than our native termites. Unless you happen to live in one of the few communities along the upper Texas Gulf coast where Formosan termites are established, there is little need to purchase a pest control contract solely because it includes coverage for this species. The few isolated cases where Formosan termites have been detected in central and north-central Texas appear to be related to use of recycled railroad ties used as landscape timbers. If you are aware of one of these infestations in your immediate neighborhood, discuss your options with your pest control inspector prior to purchasing a contract. For most homeowners warranties for Formosan termites are usually unecessary. To find out whether the Formosan termite is a problem in your area, contact your county Extension office.

What is termite bait?

A. This is the most common question we receive about termite control. Unfortunately there is no simple answer. Both techniques have advantages. Unlike conventional liquid termiticides, which provide a chemical barrier to termites, baits are designed to suppress or elimininate the termite colonies. Baits incorporate a slow-acting toxicant or growth regulator into a suitable termite food. The toxicants in baits are delivered to the colony by foraging worker termites, who share their food with other colony members.

How do termite monitoring stations work?

These stations differ from bait stations as they contain no insecticides and provide no termite control. Rather, these devices work by providing an electronic signal or a mechanical pop-up tab to indicate when termites have fed upon the monitoring station. Although these stations provide a clever way to “see” termite activity in your landscape, a positive “hit” to the station should not be interpreted to mean that your home requires treatment. Most urban landscapes have termites living in the soil, but not all homes become infested. If your pest control company points out that you have termite activity near your home, you may want to request an inspection and ask them to point out any risk factors you might be able to correct to reduce your chances of getting termites.

Why do termite control professionals prefer one or more termiticides?

Because product performance can vary from one locality and soil type to another, these preferences may be quite valid. Ask salespersons to justify their choice of a product.

What is the job of termites?

Commonly referred to as “swarmers”, the job of reproductive termites is to mate and start new colonies. Termite swarmers may or may not have wings, as their wings often are shed shortly after flight.

How long does termite fumigation last?

The problem is that this gas is dangerous not just to the termites, but also to you, your pets, and your plants. The entire termite tenting process also lasts days. The gas will be on your property for a long time.

Why can't termites stay in my house?

They can’t stay in your home too because the fumigant gas is just as toxic to them. 4. Open your windows to aerate your home. Your professional pest controller will aerate your home. It’s part of the termite tenting process. They will check too if it is safe for you to come home.

How many incidents of sulfuryl fluoride after termite tenting?

A recent study even showed that there have been 59 incidents of sulfuryl fluoride-related illnesses after termite tenting in California from 2003 to 2014.

How long does sulfuryl fluoride stay in your house?

The fumigant gas sulfuryl fluoride is trapped inside your property for 18-24 hours, depending on a lot of factors – such as the size of your home. This is a long time. The gas will have a lot of opportunities to really seep through your walls to kill the termites and through your linens and personal items.

What are the most commonly exposed items to fumigant gas?

6. Look for items that may have been exposed to the fumigant gas. The most commonly exposed items are linens – bed sheets, curtains, and the like. Many people seem to forget about them, but they can be very dangerous if they are contaminated with the fumigant gas.

What to do if your home has not been cleaned?

If your home has not been cleaned or if it seems like it still has signs of the fumigant gas, consider staying longer at your place of accommodation . This is why it’s also important to look for accommodation even before the entire termite tenting process begins. Also, take your pets and plants into consideration.

What to do if you smell gas?

If you smell something unusual around your property, the gas may not have completely dispersed. Consult your professional pest controller on what to do, but you would probably not be able to stay in your home. 3. Consider staying elsewhere for a few more days.