What Really Happens to Your Home During a Fumigation?

If you’ve spotted those big, bold striped tents popping up in your neighborhood—it’s not a circus. It’s war. War on termites.

At The Termite Guy, we don’t take termites lightly. When it’s time to fumigate, we do it right—with precision, professionalism, and powerful gas designed to penetrate deep and wipe out the invaders from the inside out.

Wondering what to expect when your home gets fumigated? Let’s break it down step-by-step so you’re fully in the loop and 100% prepared.

Fumigation Preparation Phase: Before the Tent Goes Up

Before we arrive to tent your home, there are a few important steps to prepare for a smooth and successful fumigation. Below are the key actions and expectations to help you get ready and avoid any last-minute surprises:

• Double-Bagging Essentials: We'll provide a video guide explaining how to securely double-bag all food, animal feed, and medications. We provide Nylofume bags to ensure secure containment of these items.
• Gas Company Coordination: Schedule your gas restoration appointment ahead of time (usually requires 24–48 hours advance notice).
• Vacating the Property: All residents, pets, and plants must leave the premises during fumigation.
• Time Frame Requests: You can request a PM time frame on the day the tent is scheduled to come down (Day 3).
• Utilities Requirements: Ensure water and electricity remain turned on:
  
  • Water is essential for securing the fumigation tarps using water-filled weights called water snakes.
  • Electricity powers aeration fans used post-treatment to ensure a safe re-entry.

Fumigation Timeline: Day by Day

Day 1 – Tent Installation and Gas Introduction

• Gas Shut-Off: Your gas company arrives between 7–11 AM to turn off and tag your gas meter (do not remove the tag).
• Home Preparation: Be ready for the day without gas, planning accordingly for cooking, heating, and hot water.
• Tent Installation: Our team secures your property using heavy-duty tarps, weighted securely with sand and water weights.
• Interior Preparations: We meticulously check the interior of your property to ensure everything is properly prepped for fumigation. Our team confirms the removal, or double-bagged storage, of required items for a safe and effective process:
  
  • Food, medicine, vitamins, pet food, and feed must be removed or double-bagged in special Nylofume bags.
  • All plants, pets, and people must be removed from the property.
  • We verify that cabinets, drawers, appliances, safes, closets, attics, and basements are open to allow full fumigant circulation.
  • Safes must be opened to be inspected for living beings and consumables. Please remove any valuables ahead of time for your peace of mind
• Securing Your Home: After preparation, we add secondary locks and post clear warning signs.
• Gas Treatment: A licensed fumigator introduces Vikane® Gas Fumigant into your home, effectively penetrating wood and reaching hidden termites

Day 2 – Aeration Process Begins

• Integrity Check: Our team returns to ensure the tent remains intact.
• Aeration Initiation: Aeration fans are activated, beginning the process of safely dispersing fumigation gases.

Day 3 – Tent Removal and Safe Re-Entry

• Tent Removal: Tarps are carefully and professionally removed.
• Air Quality Testing: A licensed fumigator performs specialized air sampling to confirm all fumigation gas has dissipated.
• Safety Certification: Once confirmed safe, we issue a formal Re-Entry Notice, clearly indicating the precise date and time for your safe return. Do not remove this notice, as t is required by the gas company to restore service.
• Security Removal: Locks and warning signs are removed, signaling that your home is ready to re-enter.

After Fumigation: Returning Home Safely

After fumigation, here's what to expect:

• Wait for Clearance: Only return after receiving the official Re-Entry Notice.
• Gas Restoration: Ensure your gas service restoration is scheduled; utility companies require seeing the posted Re-Entry Notice to turn gas back on.
• Resuming Normal Life: Safely unpack your double-bagged items and enjoy the comfort of your termite-free home.

Why Choose The Termite Guy?

Choosing The Termite Guy means opting for:

• Extensive Experience: Over 25 years dedicated exclusively to termite solutions.
• Licensed General Contractor: We treat and repair any damage to your house without needing third-party involvement.
• Rapid Service: We provide inspection reports within 24 hours.
• Quality Assurance: A comprehensive 5-year warranty on fumigation services.
• Exceptional Care: Our commitment to professionalism, efficiency, and outstanding customer service.

Ready to protect your home and eliminate termites thoroughly? Contact The Termite Guy today or call 877-TERMITE and regain peace of mind.