The Termite Fumigation Process
Tent fumigation, or “tenting” requires a sealed tent that concentrates poisonous gases and prevents termites from escaping into the neighborhood.
The process can take up to a week depending on the chemicals used, which is dependent on the temperature and the type of pest. Rubber tents, typically made of plastic/PVC coated canvas material, may be placed over the entire house while the pesticides are released into the vacant residence.
During termite tenting, the occupants of the home, including plants and pets, must evacuate the home for several days.
When the tent is removed, chemicals used are put into the atmosphere, and the pest control professionals test the air before allowing the homeowners to move back in.
To ensure that your family will be safe, make sure that you have the assurance that the air quality has been tested and chemical levels are below 1PPM (parts per million).
If the infestation is severe, tent fumigation is the only option. Infestations that become widespread, particularly in inaccessible areas, are what make tent fumigation an ideal option.
Once settled into a home, termites are able to live in areas like beams, walls, or perhaps underneath floorboards. When a structure is fumigated, the gas reaches every area and deeply penetrates its wood structures where termites live and feed. The fumigant used is a true gas (meaning its lighter than air) once the home is completely aerated it leaves behind no residue whatsoever.
How Effective is Termite Tenting?
All liquid termiticides can control termites for at least five years when applied correctly. The duration of control will depend on several factors such as products used, thoroughness of application, affected area, local environmental conditions, and density of termites on the property.
If termites swarm and continue to infest the structure the year following treatment, the pests have found an untreated gap in the chemical barrier call an expert for further inspection.
Even the best treatments performed by knowledgeable pest control firms may fail at times. Untreated gaps in the soil allow termites to continue to infest the foundation of a home. The best solution is to hire a reputable pest control expert with experienced technicians.
How to Prepare for Fumigation
Your exterminator will give you a list of preparations before fumigation begins.
Remember to remove anything that could pose a risk to your family upon returning. If you do forget any of these things, be sure to safely dispose of them immediately to ensure your home is safe from carrying harmful pesticides.
Remove the following items before the fumigation process begins:
- Open food
- Pet Food
- Open alcohol
- Tobacco
- Small pets and house plants
Your exterminator will check the quality of the air using special equipment before you are allowed to enter your home. The industry standard is that any leftover chemicals are 1PPM. Remember to open all the doors and windows to allow the chemicals to dissipate.
Returning Home Aftercare
When you return to your home after fumigation, wash all sealed and unsealed utensils and clothes to rid them of the fumigation chemicals. Floors, doors, windows, shelves, counter tops should also be wiped down and cleaned.
Finally, create a follow-up plan and keep in touch with your exterminator for regular inspections. Many exterminators offer yearly check-up rates. Call your local exterminator to determine what plan would be ideal for your termite infestation.