Fumigating your home to get rid of termites is never a pleasant process, but it is far better than allowing these dangerous insects to wreak havoc on the house. If, for any reason, fumigation is not a viable option for you, ask your termite control company about other extermination options such as fumigation vs. microwave termite treatment. A professional termite control company will not only be able to offer you options but will also be able to tell you why a specific course of action is right for your home. If fumigation is the way to go, preparing for it will help smoothen the process.

What You Need to Do

• Do not leave the preparation to the last minute. There is nothing difficult about getting the house ready, but some steps may take longer than you anticipate. Not being ready when the exterminators arrive is going to delay the whole project and add to your hassles.
• Find a place to stay while the house is tented. Tenting will typically take 24 to 72 hours – your extermination company will give you a clear timeline. Termite fumigation is safe and has to be done as per Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines by trained and certified exterminators but the house has to be empty during the process.
• Pets will also have to move with you or you will need to find a place for them to stay. Remember to carry enough food, toys, etc. for them.
• Indoor plants will also have to be moved from the fumigation areas.
• If you have a natural gas connection, call the gas company and schedule a temporary shut-off for the fumigation period. If you have a propane tank, either shut it off yourself or call the propane company to do it.

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Also Read: How Long Does Termite Fumigation Take?

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• Pack any medications that have to be taken regularly. Others can be either stored away from the house or double-bagged and then left in place.
• As for food, unopened canned and bottled items can remain in the house. Perishable items from the fridge and freezer must be taken with you. Cereals, rice, and anything else in unopened plastic or cardboard packaging must also be removed from the house. If some things cannot be moved, they must be placed in special fumigation bags to ensure that the fumigation gases do not seep into the food.
• Plants and shrubs that are close to or touching the exterior walls will have to be cut back or moved so that they remain outside the tented area and are not damaged by the tenting or gases.
• Do not cover furniture or furnishings with plastic. When anything in the house is covered with plastic, poisonous gases from the fumigation can seep in. The gases can remain trapped in there and pose a health risk when the covers are removed. This applies to garment bags, plastic totes, and similar containers as well.

Talk to your termite control company about other site-specific precautions you may need to take. Following the advice of experts is the best way to ensure a smooth and effective fumigation with the least number of hassles.

Once the fumigation is done, you should talk to the termite company about termite prevention options such as termite baiting systems. And to ensure that your home remains safe from termites in the future, you should go in for annual termite inspections. Hi-Tech Termite Control in the SF Bay Area offers a range of services to not just get rid of termites but to also make sure that they stay away from your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does termite fumigation typically take?

Fumigation usually takes 24 to 72 hours. Your termite control company will provide a clear timeline based on your home’s needs.

2. Can I stay in the house during fumigation?

No, the house must be empty during fumigation. This includes all residents, pets, and indoor plants.

3. What should I do with food and medications during fumigation?

Unopened canned or bottled items can remain in the house. Perishable foods and items in cardboard or plastic packaging must be removed or placed in special fumigation bags. Medications should either be removed or double-bagged.

4. Should I cover furniture with plastic during fumigation?

No, covering furniture or items with plastic can trap poisonous gases, posing a health risk. Avoid using plastic covers, garment bags, or totes.

5. Do I need to turn off my gas supply before fumigation?

Yes, if you have natural gas, schedule a temporary shut-off with your gas company. For propane tanks, either shut them off yourself or contact the propane provider.

6. What precautions should I take for outdoor plants?

Trim or move plants and shrubs that are close to or touching the exterior walls to keep them outside the tented area.

7. What should I do after fumigation?

After fumigation, discuss termite prevention options like baiting systems with your termite control company. Annual inspections are also recommended to keep termites away.

8. Does Hi-Tech Termite Control provide termite prevention services?

Yes, Hi-Tech Termite Control in the SF Bay Area offers a range of services, including fumigation, baiting systems, and annual inspections to protect your home.

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