10 Termite Fumigation/Tenting Facts You May Not Know

Key Takeaways

• You may or may not have had your house fumigated for termite treatment
• If you have, it is likely you simply followed the company’s preparation instructions and turned over your house key to them
• This video will show what exactly happens after you turn over your keys and some tips about fumigation
• I suspect you will see a few things you may not have expected or imagined, such as the poison is actually in use for only one day, they may use tear gas, how the poison gas is released at the end, and so forth
• If you have not had experience with fumigation, but are currently preparing your house, this video is a must watch because seeing how we wasted some time and effort may save you some of yours

Understanding the Basics

Whole-house fumigation involves covering the entire structure with a gas-tight tent, then releasing a lethal gas (typically Vikane, or sulfuryl fluoride) that penetrates every crack, crevice, and hidden space in the structure. The gas kills all drywood termites regardless of where they are hiding — including in walls, attics, and other inaccessible areas. The process takes about three days: one day for setup and gas release, one day for the gas to work, and one day for aeration and clearance testing. The gas concentration is monitored and must reach zero parts per million before the home is declared safe to re-enter.

Video Chapter Guide

Here is a quick reference for the key sections covered in the video:

• 0:00 Summary
• 0:33 1: may not follow preparation instructions
• 1:00 wasted 12 inches from home
• 1:44 2. tent encloses deck & fence
• 2:07 3. plastic/pvc coated and clamps
• 2:27 35LB weight and release gas
• 3:09 inside house & fans
• 3:29 4. fans with tubes
• 3:49 only after 1 day to release gas
• 4:37 5. apply tear gas
• 4:57 6. weight scale & 18LB gas
• 5:27 7. inject Vikane gas

Use these timestamps to jump directly to the section most relevant to your situation.