A fumigation crew covers the entire structure with large tarps. The tarps are secured with long “sand snakes” placed along the foundation of the structure and related attachments.
A licensed fumigator prepares the interior by ensuring the removal of food, feed, drugs, plants, people and pets. The fumigator is also responsible for placement of fans, opening of doors and drawers and placement of warning agent (chloropicrin) in specific locations.
The structure is secured with secondary locks on all entryways and warning signs are posted at specific locations.
Once the exterior has been properly sealed and the interior prepared, the warning agent is applied and the proper dosage of Vikane® Gas Fumigant is introduced into the structure. The fumigant is contained in the structure for a predetermined amount of time, penetrating deep into wood to eliminate Drywood Termites.
After the proper exposure to Vikane® Gas Fumigant has been administered, one of our licensed fumigators will open a pre-installed inlet/outlet ventilation system to begin the aeration process.
Once the proper amount of aeration time has elapsed, the fumigation crew will remove the tarps from the structure.
Once the tarps are removed from the structure, one of our licensed fumigators takes air samples from the interior living spaces with equipment specifically designed to detect the presence of Vikane® Gas Fumigant.
Once it is determined that it safe to return to the structure, the licensed fumigator will place a Re-Entry Notice on the front door. This notice will indicate the date and time that it was certified safe to re-enter.
The secondary locks and warning signs are removed to complete the fumigation.
FAQs
Your fumigator may direct you to unplug and turn off all heat sources, such as appliances, computers and heaters. You will also be required to extinguish all pilot lights and have gas service suspended during the fumigation.
How soon can termites return after fumigation? ›
However, usually, it should take at least five years before termites can finally find their way back into your home. Also, if your home has already been damaged by these insects, it will be even more vulnerable to another termite infestation. Don't let this happen to you and protect your home from a repeat infestation!
Do I need to wash all my dishes after fumigation? ›
Following fumigation, ventilating the treated area by opening windows and doors is crucial to allow any residual gases to dissipate. It's advisable to thoroughly clean and sanitize surfaces, dishes, utensils, and food preparation areas that may have been exposed to the fumigant.
What to expect after termite fumigation? ›
Termites May Hang Around A Few Days
You may continue to see termites in your home for a couple of days after your fumigation. In some cases, treated bugs may take some time to expire. And it's important to know that some fumigation products do not kill termite eggs.
Can I sleep in my house after fumigation? ›
After fumigation and clearance:
Allow extra time for airing out your home, with windows open, before moving back in. Sulfuryl fluoride has been measured in homes up to 48 hours after clearance.
Can I leave my clothes in the house during fumigation? ›
Clothes Stay Safe
The good news is that fumigation is done using gases, not liquids. Gases can penetrate even the most minute of cavities and kill the termites hiding there. The only risk is to the moths and bugs that may be hiding among your clothes.
What to do with pillows during fumigation? ›
Fumigation bags are available to help protect your consumables. Take the sheets, pillows and comforters from all beds. Some customers feel more comfortable removing these items, and some customers' double-bag their linens and closet contents with fumigation-proof bags.
What to do with a mattress during fumigation? ›
Evacuate all people and pets from the structure. Remove mattresses completely enveloped in plastic, such as baby mattresses with waterproof covers, or remove or open the covers. Remove or double-bag anything that will be ingested: food, drugs (including tobacco products), medicinals, spices, etc.
Should you change your sheets after fumigation? ›
Discard the cloth immediately. Mop the floor using soapy water to get rid of the residual fumigants. Collect all sheets and curtains and take them for laundry. Vacuum the mattress before replacing the bedding.
How to clean a home after termite fumigation? ›
Use a damp cloth to wipe surfaces around the house to get rid of any dust and fumigants. After using the cloth discard it immediately. Make a 50-50 solution of water and vinegar. With the solution repeat the wiping process not forgetting about the cabinets, doorknobs, drawers, and cupboards.
Food for people, animals and pets, as well as tobacco products and medicines (including items in refrigerators and freezers) can remain in your home if they are in plastic, glass or metal bottles, cans or jars with the original manufacturer's air-tight seal intact.
Can termites survive fumigation? ›
Fumigating is a highly effective way of controlling termites inside the home, and it almost always has a 100% success rate. Even though it does require you to leave your home, it is by far the quickest way to control an infestation.
Do you have to unplug the fridge when using a fogger? ›
Foggers are used when pests are present and if you plan to have your home fogged, you need to know that unplugging a refrigerator is a must. Unplugging refrigerators will prevent accidents from happening since chemicals released by foggers are flammable.
Can I eat food in fridge after fumigation? ›
Food Items
Food in plastic covers, glass jars and cans can be left as it is given that the seal is intact. Double bag frozen foods and leave them in the refrigerator. Use special bags that offer maximum protection against fumigants for sealing food items.
Does electricity stay on during fumigation? ›
In fact, in most cases, the fumigation company needs your electric service to remain on to perform the fumigation.
