Full structural fumigation for widespread drywood termite infestations. Licensed fumigators serving Sonoma, Marin, Napa, and Solano Counties — with 78+ years of North Bay expertise.
Structural fumigation is the most comprehensive treatment available for drywood termite infestations. It reaches every void, crack, and piece of wood in the structure simultaneously — eliminating termites in locations that no localized treatment can access.
Fumigation is typically recommended when an infestation is found in multiple areas of the structure, when termites are in inaccessible structural members behind walls or ceilings, or when a thorough inspection cannot determine the full extent of infestation. It is the only method that provides whole-structure confidence.
Inspection First, Always. We never recommend fumigation without a thorough inspection to confirm that the infestation warrants it. Many infestations can be treated with localized methods. Our goal is the right treatment — not the most expensive one.
The Fumigation Process — Step by Step
1
Pre-Fumigation Inspection
A licensed inspector confirms the infestation, maps all affected areas, and documents findings. The recommendation for fumigation versus localized treatment is made at this stage with clear reasoning.
2
Preparation
We provide a detailed preparation checklist covering what must be removed, bagged, or secured before tenting. All occupants, pets, and plants must vacate. Food not in manufacturer-sealed glass or metal containers must be removed or double-bagged in approved fumigation bags.
3
Structure Tenting
Heavy fumigation tarps are placed over the entire structure, sealed at the ground. The tent contains the fumigant within the structure and prevents dispersal to neighboring properties.
4
Fumigant Introduction
Vikane® (sulfuryl fluoride) gas is introduced at precisely calculated concentrations based on structure volume and ambient temperature. The gas penetrates every void and piece of wood in the structure, reaching termites in all life stages.
5
Airing & Clearance Testing
After the required exposure period, the tent is removed and the structure is aired. A licensed professional uses a clearance device to test fumigant levels throughout the structure. Re-entry is only permitted after all areas test below the required clearance level.
6
Post-Fumigation Documentation
You receive written clearance documentation and a summary of the treatment. We recommend a follow-up inspection to confirm elimination and address any remaining conducive conditions.
Tenting / fumigation photo — add via Gallery
Preparation Checklist Overview
Your technician will provide a comprehensive written preparation guide. Key requirements include:
All people, pets, and plants must vacate for the duration — typically 3 nights
Food, beverages, medicines, and tobacco not in sealed original manufacturer containers (glass or metal) must be removed or placed in approved Nylofume® bags
Mattresses with airtight plastic covers — remove covers or cut them
Unlock or leave keys for all interior rooms for inspection and re-entry testing
Pilot lights and gas appliances — arrangements coordinated with utility provider
Notify immediate neighbors as a courtesy
Secure all documents and valuables as you would for any multi-day absence
Safety Protocols
Structural fumigation is one of the most tightly regulated pest control procedures in California. We adhere to all California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR) requirements:
Licensed fumigation crew for all phases of treatment
Mandatory clearance testing before re-entry permitted
Posted notices on the structure during fumigation
Secondary lock or seal on all entry points during fumigation
Written documentation provided to property owner
Frequently Asked Questions — Fumigation
The tenting and fumigation process typically takes 48–72 hours from the time the tent goes on to clearance. Preparation before tenting and airing after clearance add additional time. Most families plan for 3 nights away from home. Your technician will provide a specific timeline based on your property.
You must remove all people, pets, plants, and certain food items. All medications, food not in glass jars or cans with unbroken seals, and any items you would not want fumigant exposure on must be removed or double-bagged in approved fumigation bags. We provide a complete preparation checklist at booking.
Vikane® (sulfuryl fluoride), the fumigant we use, is a gas that disperses completely from the structure. It leaves no surface residue. Your belongings — furniture, clothing, electronics — do not need to be treated or replaced after fumigation. The clearance test confirms the structure is safe before re-entry.
Fumigation is recommended when drywood termites are found in multiple areas of the structure, when the infestation is in inaccessible areas (wall voids, structural members behind finishes), or when the extent of infestation cannot be fully mapped. For contained, accessible infestations, localized treatment is often sufficient.
The fumigant is contained within the sealed tent and disperses rapidly during airing. Neighboring properties are not affected. We notify neighbors as a courtesy and follow all regulatory requirements for fumigation notification.
We recommend informing your homeowner's insurance company and reviewing your policy regarding temporary vacancy during fumigation. Some policies have provisions regarding extended vacancy periods.
Questions About Fumigation? We Have Answers.
Call us for a straight answer about whether fumigation is the right solution for your property — or request an inspection to find out.