
Termite Fumigation Tips
If you’ve been having problems with termites, it’s time to call in the professionals. Termite fumigation is the best way to get rid of these pests for good. However, it’s important to take a few precautions before and after the fumigation process in order to keep your home safe and pest-free. This guide will discuss some of the most important termite fumigation tips that you need to know.
What is Termite Fumigation?
Termite fumigation is a process that involves pumping gas into your home. This gas kills termites, which are wood-destroying insects that can cause serious damage to the structure of your home if they aren’t eliminated quickly. However, this process isn’t just for pest control. It also helps prevent future infestations by killing off the termite queen.
When it comes to getting rid of pesky termites, fumigation is the best way to ensure that your home is completely safe and pest-free. Fumigation specialists will use a potent fumigant that will penetrate deep into wall voids and cracks to kill any colonies of termites living in your home. Many times they will need to tent your home.
When is Fumigation Necessary?
Fumigation is usually only needed when no other options are left to control or eliminate a current infestation of wood-destroying termites. Pest control technicians will often inspect every room of the house to analyze the signs of termites before deciding whether fumigation is necessary.
Is Fumigation Effective?
Fumigation is effective because it kills all signs of termite life. The fumigant can penetrate into wall voids, cracks, and crevices and kill off colonies of termites living in your home.
Working with fumigation experts allows you to be certain that the process is carried out as quickly and effectively as possible.
Depending on the size of your property, the procedure of elimination takes approximately 72 hours after your initial examination. This is more effective than other methods, as the fumigant is able to penetrate all areas of your home.
Termite fumigation is by far the quickest, safest, and most effective technique of termite removal. Then you’ll be able to go back to living your normal life after you’ve gotten rid of the termites.
Different Types of Fumigants
There are many different types of fumigants available today, but the two main ones that people use most often include methyl bromide and sulfuryl fluoride (Vikane). These chemicals kill insects through contact with them directly or indirectly; they also kill microbes like bacteria fungus spores that feed on the dead insects.
Methyl bromide
It was once a popular choice for fumigation as it is easy to use and relatively cheap, but it has been phased out in many countries due to its harmful effects on both humans and the environment. It can cause severe respiratory problems when inhaled and also damage crops and other plants nearby. It also depletes the ozone layer, which protects us from ultraviolet radiation.
Sulfuryl fluoride (Vikane)
It is another common fumigant used in termite control, although it’s less toxic to humans than methyl bromide, so some people prefer using this method over others. The only downside is that sulfuryl fluoride is a little more expensive than other chemicals.
Vikane works by penetrating the wood where termites live and eat, killing them when they make contact with this gas. It can be applied directly to exposed areas or pumped into your home through a pipe system once the home is “tented” or covered in tarps so that the fumigants reach every gap and crevice in your home.
What Precautions Should Be Taken Before Fumigation?
Preparation is essential before any fumigation treatment can begin. A licensed professional pest control company will come out to your home and inspect it for termite activity. If they find evidence of these pests, they’ll recommend the best course of action, which typically involves using chemicals or heat treatments to get rid of the termites.
Before you fumigate, you should:
- Remove all pets from the house and find them alternative accommodations for at least three days after the fumigation.
- Remove all plants from the house.
- Close all of the house's windows, doors, and vents.
- Seal up any cracks or openings in the home's exterior with caulk or another sealant.
- Pack any irreplaceable belongings that you cannot remove from the home
- Vacate your home as well and find alternative accommodation for at least three days after the fumigation.
- Remove all food from your home, including pantry items and refrigerated foods.
- Cover or remove fish tanks and other sources of water.
- Discard any medicines you are not using anymore.
- Do not leave anything that attracts termites in the house during fumigation, such as cardboard boxes, firewood, or mulch.
- Seal off any air vents or other openings with plastic sheeting.
How Long Does it Take for Termite Fumigation Treatment?
It takes about two days from start to finish, but this can vary depending on the size of your home and how many rooms need to be treated. You’ll need to make arrangements for you, your family, and your pets to stay with a friend, family member, or at a hotel during the treatment process.
Once your home has been fumigated, you should not return until the required amount of time has passed – usually three days. A company specializing in termite control will monitor your house using carbon monoxide monitors placed around the property during that time. These monitors are reliable and will prevent you from returning until your home is safe to inhabit again.
What Precautions Should Be Taken After Termite Fumigation?
- It's important not to enter your home for at least three after completing the fumigation process.
- Don't turn on any fans or air conditioning units in your home until it has been aired out thoroughly.
- Open all of the windows and doors in your house to allow fresh air to circulate.
- Wash all of your bedding and towels before using them again.
- Check the seals around your doors and windows to make sure there are no gaps or cracks that could allow pests to enter your home.
If you follow these termite fumigation tips, you can be sure that your home will be safe and termite-free.
Tips for Picking a Termite Removal Company
If you think that you may be in need of a fumigator, here are some tips:
Be sure to ask questions
Make sure that you are fully informed about everything before signing any contracts or agreements. The professionals can give you the best advice on how to handle your specific termite situation. You should also ask them if there will be any additional costs associated with the treatment plan you are considering.
Choose a company that has experience and knowledge
This is a field where experience and expertise are extremely important so that the job gets done right the first time. The company should walk you through what will be done before, during, and after the treatment.
Be sure to ask about their rates
This can also vary depending on the area you need treatment or the plan you have in mind. If it is a small infestation, they should be able to do the job quickly and efficiently without having any problems with large-scale operations like a home that needs extensive treatment because multiple levels or rooms within your house require special attention during fumigation treatments.
Ask if they offer emergency services
If necessary, so you know that help is available if something goes wrong during or after the fumigation process.
These are just some fumigation tips to keep in mind when looking for a pest control service near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1
How do you get rid of termites after fumigation?
If there is any evidence of an infestation, the house must be re-fumigated. This will help ensure that all termites have been eradicated and prevent new colonies from forming in your home again.
To prevent future problems with these pests, keep up regular maintenance around your property so that any issues can be caught early on before they become serious enough to warrant professional intervention.
2
Can you live in a house after it’s been fumigated?
Yes, but only if the homeowner follows all safety precautions outlined by their pest control company or licensed exterminator. However, you should vacate the premises for a few days, as the fumes can be quite strong and potentially harmful if you are sensitive to them.
3
What does fumigation entail?
Fumigation involves sealing off an area with a tent-like structure and pumping gas inside. The gas kills pests by suffocating them. It may take several days for the fumigant to dissipate, so it is recommended that you leave your home during this time period if possible.
Hiring a professional fumigator is the best way to ensure that your home or office is free of pests. They have the experience and knowledge to get the job done right and make sure that everything goes smoothly, so you can relax and not worry about termites eating away at the structure of your home. Don’t hesitate to contact a pest control company today for more information.