
Termite tenting is a broader term that can be done to allow either fumigation or heat treatment of termites. With the most common type of termite tenting, fumigation, poisonous gas is pumped into the tented home to penetrate every nook and cranny and take care of the infestation. The home must be thoroughly ventilated afterward.
- Food – Use special nylon polymer bags to bag food which is open or has an open seal. ...
- Pet Food – It's handled the same way as human food. ...
- Alcohol – You'll have to handle it like other liquids. ...
- Tobacco – Treat it similarly to food products before tenting.
Is tenting the only way to get rid of termites?
Tenting, also known as fumigation, is the only way to truly get rid of all termites in your home. How to get rid of flying termites in your house . You should always use a natural approach when possible to avoid using dangerous poisons and residues.
How effective is termite tenting?
- Before it starts, make accommodation plans for your family
- Also, best option is to relocate all perishables from your home to a storage outside your home
- After the treatment, air your home to allow the chemicals to dissipate
- Also, clean utensils, furniture, and all surfaces
How to treat termites without tenting?
- Local termite treatments are eco-friendly and highly effective.
- Alternative termite treatments using microwave units allow you, your children, and your pets to remain at home.
- Microwave treatments are area-targeted and can reach infestation hotspots that chemicals treatments can’t.
What are the dangers of termite tenting a house?
- The basic safety gear for termite fumigation includes safety goggles for the protection of your eyes.
- Safety helmets are also are a requirement.
- Respiratory masks are indispensable when conducting termite fumigation yourself. ...
- Safety gloves and boots are also among things you must put on for adequate protection.

What items need to be removed for termite tenting?
Dry goods packaged in bags and/or cardboard boxes need to be removed or double bagged even if they haven't been opened. These items include cereal, chips, rice, etc. Mattresses sealed in plastic, such as baby mattresses, need to be removed or the waterproof covers must be removed or opened.
How do I prepare my house for tenting for termites?
Personal ItemsMake Accommodation Plans for The Family. ... Seal and Toss Away Consumables. ... Pack and Store Clothes. ... Unplug All Electrical Appliances. ... Take Out All Plants. ... Uncover The Furniture and Upholstery. ... Open All Doors Between Rooms. ... Prep The Exterior of the Home the Tent.More items...•
What to expect when tenting for termites?
What Happens During Fumigation? On the first day of the fumigation process, your termite extermination team will place fans inside your home, and that big, bright tent will make its appearance over your house. The team will also put up all of the necessary warning signs and begin to circulate the gas.
How do I prepare my house for fumigation?
Remove all living things, including pets and plants, from the structures to be fumigated. Adding poison to the building can seriously harm or kill pets or plants. Remove or seal food, medicines, tobacco products, etc., in the provided fumigation bags or remove them entirely from the structure.
Do I need to wash all my dishes after fumigation?
It is unnecessary to wash dishes, linens, clothing, etc., as the fumigant is a gas that will dissipate from the structure and its contents. Drawers and cabinets will be left open for the aeration process.
Does fumigation affect electronics?
It has no properties that would adversely affect electronics or even food. Bagging anything at all would be a waste of your time, as the gas will freely pass through all the containments. In fact, it passes through the large containment around the building as well, and begins to dissipate into open space immediately.
Do I need to remove clothes for fumigation?
It is not necessary to wash dishes, linens, clothing, etc., as the fumigant is a gas that will dissipate from the structure and its contents.
Do you need to clean after termite tenting?
Regular fumigation of your house will lead to a pest-free environment. After fumigation, you will need to clean your home to get rid of any chemicals before you get into the house. Cleaning a house after fumigation will also get rid of the dead pests lying around the house.
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.
What foods should be bagged for fumigation?
Anything in resealable containers, including plastic containers, such as milk, butter, sour cream and cot- tage cheese. Eggs, fruits, vegetables and any oth- er forms of produce. Sample items that must be bagged or removed from the structure being fumigated .
Are windows closed during fumigation?
If it can be opened, open it. The goal is to allow as much of the fumigant gas to circulate through the home. You can leave your windows closed but open the blinds or drapes.
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 effective is a tent for termites?
The tent keeps the poison gas inside the home, and it helps it penetrate deep into every part of the home, even the wood timbers. Tenting is extremely effective in getting rid of a stubborn termite infestation or one that is difficult to access. Still, it is costly, involves some risk, and requires a lot of planning and preparation on the part ...
What is termite tenting?
Termite tenting is a broader term that can be done to allow either fumigation or heat treatment of termites. With the most common type of termite tenting, fumigation, poisonous gas is pumped into the tented home to penetrate every nook and cranny and take care of the infestation.
How much does termite fumigation cost?
According to averages from around the web, you can expect termite tenting to cost between $1,000 and $2,500. This means you’ll pay about $10 to $20 per linear foot. The cost of termite tenting may seem high.
How long does it take for termites to die after fumigation?
You may even see a few newly hatched termites because the fumigant will not kill termite eggs. However, without the rest of the colony, the baby termites will die within a few days. The entire colony should die off within one week from your fumigation date.
How does termite tenting work?
How Termite Tenting Works. First, you call a pest control company to order a termite inspection. Then, they determine it’s a large, widespread infestation. The likely recommendation is termite tenting for fumigation.
How long do you leave a house for termites?
Everyone that lives in the home (including plants and pets) must leave for about three days to allow for the termite tenting process to finish.
What are the symptoms of fumigation?
Symptoms of exposure to the fumigant include nausea, dizziness, headaches, and lung or eye irritation. If you experience symptoms like these after fumigation, see your doctor immediately and let the pest control company know. They may need to ventilate the house further.
What to take out of a termite fumigation?
This may include jewelry, antiques, or electronics. Next, take out any medications you may consume. This not only includes the medicines you need to use during the time of your termite fumigation but all medications .
How long does it take to get rid of termites?
1) Prepare Your Family to Leave. Termite tenting can be a few day processes from start to finish. So be prepared to have what you need for approximately 72 hours —especially medications. The number one priority is to find accommodations for your entire family during this time.
How long before termite fumigation can you use food?
Stop purchasing new food items a couple of weeks before the scheduled termite fumigation. Use up as many perishable items as you can. Any food items in bags (such as chips) or cardboard boxes (such as cereal, crackers, and pasta) must be removed before the termite treatment.
Is termite tenting scary?
Termite tenting is scary for most people. You’re unsure what to do, you’re embarrassed that you have an insect issue, and you’re worried about the results of fumigating. Let us put your mind at ease.
Can you stay with family during termite fumigation?
Make sure family members have what they need. Do NOT return to your property during termite fumigation. Entering a property during fumigation may lead to serious injury or death. This also applies to our pets.
Do pest control companies check for termites?
Your pest control company will monitor and certify when your home is safe to reenter. Please do not enter your home before being contacted by the pest control company. They will be able to advise you of the best follow up program to check for termites, prevent termites, and treat any future termite sightings.
Do you leave shutters open for termite tenting?
It is also recommended that any interior shutters, shades, or drapes are left open for termite fumigators to treat your home more easily. The exterior of your home also needs to be prepared.
What is the best way to prepare for termite tenting?
One of the vital steps when preparing for termite tenting is the placement of a warning agent. For the sake of clarity, a warning agent like Chloropicrin is generally used. A small amount of this compound is used before the application of the fumigant (Vikane). Chloropicrin is a colorless liquid that has a strong odor.
What is the best way to get rid of termites?
Remember, nylofume bags are best to pack food items into. These are the basic steps to follow when fumigating for termites. Fumigation is one of the best ways to get rid of termites.
How long should you stay out of your house after termite fumigation?
While some fumigants are odorless, others aren’t. So, if by chance you perceive anything unusual, you’d need to stay out of your home for a couple of days.
What safety gear is needed for termite fumigation?
The basic safety gear for termite fumigation includes safety goggles for the protection of your eyes. Safety helm ets are also are a requirement. Respiratory masks are indispensable when conducting termite fumigation yourself. This gear helps filter out harmful vapors and fumigant particles.
How to get rid of fumigators in your house?
Open all doors, grant unlimited access to fumigators by giving them keys to every door in the house. Switch off electricity and gas supply, as well as your air conditioning system. Remove pillows, sheets and mattress covers from your bedding. Empty your garage, remove cars, trucks, lawnmowers, etc.
What is the warning agent for tearing eyes?
In measured doses, the warning agent Chloropicrin causes tearing and eye irritations. During the application of this warning agent, you’ll need a shallow pan and an absorbent material. The liquid is poured into a shallow pan containing the absorbent material.
How to get rid of a sandbox in an apartment?
Take away your documents, computer, and other sensitive electronics. Remove all medications, pills, tablet, and cosmetics . Place plants outside the fumigation area. Remove pets, their food, and medications. Dispose of all dirt and waste, as well as bins placed beside your apartment.
What to do if you have a termite infestation?
Preparation. If you have an especially large termite infestation, your pest control company may suggest fumigation or termite tenting for your home . The pest control company will enclose the structure in a “tent” of vinyl-coated nylon tarpaulins and then they will release gaseous pesticides —or fumigants into the home or structure.
What is a re-entry notice on a fumigation?
Once it is determined that it is safe to return to the structure , the licensed fumigator will place a Re-Entry Notice on the front door. This notice will indicate the date and time that it was certified safe to re-enter. The secondary locks and warning signs are removed to complete the fumigation.
What are tarps secured with?
The tarps are secured with long “sand snakes and water bags” placed along the foundation of the structure and related attachments. Our licensed fumigator prepares the interior by ensuring the removal of food, feed, drugs, plants, people, and pets.
Is fumigation a good way to kill termites?
As with any procedure that involves pesticides, fumigation is often considered dangerous, unnecessary, and expensive. The truth is that if your home has a bad termite problem, this may be the best option for you. By fumigating the structure with fumigants, it’s a way to kill off any termites that are residing inside your home.
What is the best way to prepare for termite tenting?
One of the vital steps when preparing for termite tenting is the placement of a warning agent. For the sake of clarity, a warning agent like Chloropicrin is generally used. A small amount of this compound is used before the application of the fumigant (Vikane). Chloropicrin is a colorless liquid that has a strong odor.
What is the best fumigant for termites?
Fans are needed to blow, evaporate and circulate this liquid within your structure. Here is how to prepare for termite fumigation: Vikane gas is among the most effective and widely-used fumigants in the pest control industry. It is highly effective against termites.
How long should you stay out of your house after termite fumigation?
While some fumigants are odorless, others arent. So, if by chance you perceive anything unusual, youd need to stay out of your home for a couple of days.
What is the warning agent for tearing?
In measured doses, the warning agent Chloropicrin causes tearing and eye irritations. During the application of this warning agent, youll need a shallow pan and an absorbent material. The liquid is poured into a shallow pan containing the absorbent material.
Is termite a pest?
Termites are some of the worst pest issues to have. Of course, this should be no news to home or property owners. Getting rid of termite problems the best way possible should be a major concern. In this article, we are most interested in helping you find a practical solution that works: Tenting.
Can termites be handled?
Termite problems are not easy to handle. A lack of understanding of the process makes it even more difficult. So, without further ado, lets begin our discussion. Before fumigation is recommended for your property, an exterminator needs to establish the presence of termites.
Do termites work around the clock?
You must know that termites work round the clock, 24/7 throughout the year. The dryer the soil or wood, the more effective the treatment. This is because of many termite chemicals bond better when moisture is less. Nevertheless, the best time to tent for termite is now.
Subterranean Termite Treatment
Named after their preference to build their nests underground, subterranean termites often enter the home from areas where wood comes in contact with the ground, by squeezing through cracks as small as a business card or by using the mud tubes they construct to travel from their below ground colonies to infest wood in your home.
Drywood Termites Treatment
Drywood termites don’t need a connection to the ground in order to thrive. They are known to travel up to a mile to find a home, and will establish a colony wherever they can find a preferred source of wood.
Dampwood Termites Treatment
Much larger than their subterranean counterparts, dampwood termite soldiers sport very large pincers on their head that are used to fight off predators. As their name suggests, they prefer to build colonies in damp or decaying wood with a high moisture content and moist wood in contact with the ground such as logs and stumps.
Monitoring and Bait Stations
Monitoring stations are installed at key points around your property to determine the extent of termite activity. Once confirmed, bait stations are set up to attract termites. Bait stations house chemical materials that termites ingest and carry back to the colony, spreading them to their counterparts and addressing colonies at the source.
Gas Fumigation
This method is primarily used to control drywood termites as the treatment can reach termites living deep within a home. Fumigants permeate throughout the home and disrupt a termite’s metabolism once inhaled.
Termiticide Application
Termite infestations often need some form of termiticide usage in order to help remove current populations and prevent future infestations. Usually this involves an application to the surface of compromised wood or into soil around the home, but it can also be injected directly into wood to more closely target termite populations.
Moisture Removal
For termites, moisture is critical for survival. Making sure to fix plumbing leak problems in a timely manner and ensure proper drainage around your home, all of which can go a long way in helping to avoid a termite infestation.
How to get rid of termites in my house?
Build barriers where there is a distance of 18 inches between any wood in your home and the earth around it. There are many natural remedies for termite control issues you may spot around the house which include mixes made with Borax, vinegar, orange oil, neem oil, diatomaceous earth, and soap.
What is liquid termite barrier?
Available as a treatment to address an infestation of subterranean termites both before and after construction, liquid chemical barriers, which are also known as liquid termiticides or repellents, are applied to the soil around the foundation through a series of trenches and boreholes.
How much does termite bait cost?
Termite control using bait systems or chemical treatment costs between $5–$12 per linear foot or about $550 for the average infestation. The total price depends on the linear footprint or the length of the walls and perimeter infested in the home.
How much does it cost to bait a house for termites?
A termite baiting system costs between $6 and $10 per linear foot, or $960 to $1,600 for treatment on a 1,600 square foot house. For this treatment, your treatment specialist will set up bait stations every 15–20 feet around your home and monitor them every 30 to 90 days to see if the poison is being ingested by termites in those areas. Baiting is a critical element in killing the whole colony.
What is the difference between ants and termites?
Antennae and wings – The difference between termites and ants is that termites are generally a pale yellow and have straight ante nnae. Both sets of termite wings are the same size and shape. You may find wings that have fallen off—which happens when they leave the colony.
Why are subterranean termites so expensive?
Subterranean Termites – Subterranean costs start higher because, by the time they are discovered, they are typically already inside your home. The key with any type of treatment is to remain vigilant, with both ongoing inspections and treatment to prevent the damage becoming more widespread.
Why do non-repellent chemicals kill termites?
Since they don’t cause the termites to avoid the area and go off looking for somewhere that wasn’t treated, they just get poisoned and die because their muscles seize up and they cannot move or eat.
