Fumigation treats a whole building at once. Crews wrap the house in tarps and release a fumigant that seeps into wall cavities, drawers, closets and boxes. It is the most intensive bed bug option and is kept for cases that have spread throughout a home.
When Tenting Makes Sense
- Bugs have reached most rooms, not only bedrooms.
- Heat or chemical treatment was tried and did not work.
- The house holds too many belongings to treat piece by piece.
- A small building with several rooms needs everything treated together.
How Structural Fumigation Works in California
- SurveySomeone from the fumigation company sizes up the house and leaves you a prep sheet.
- SealTarps go over the roof and walls, and posted signs warn people to stay away.
- TreatThe licensed operator introduces the fumigant and keeps it in for the labeled period.
- ClearTarps come down, fans help air the rooms, and a meter reading clears reentry.
Fumigation in Glen Ellen
Tenting works best on a building the tent can fully wrap, so tell the company about porches, additions and trees that touch the roof. On a lot with a guest cottage or studio, ask whether that building needs its own tent. Ask the company to spell out in the quote why tenting suits your house better than heat or a spray plan.
Getting the House Ready
- Seal food, medicine and pet food in approved bags, or take them out.
- Book 2 to 3 nights elsewhere for everyone, pets included.
- Water plants beside the house and trim anything touching the walls.
- Open gates and clear paths so the tent crew can reach every side.
Questions About Fumigation
How many nights do we need to be away?
Usually 2 to 3, until the building has aired out and passed air testing.
Does tenting keep bed bugs from coming back?
No. The gas airs out completely, so a new bug carried in next month has nothing to stop it. Many companies add a residual treatment afterward.
How your call is handled: Bed Bug Control CA is a free referral service. When you call or send the form, you are connected with an independent, licensed pest control company that serves Glen Ellen. That company inspects, quotes and does the work.