FUMIGATION FAQs

A sulfuryl fluoride gas fumigant is used in structural termite fumigation. It penetrates deeply into wood and building materials to eliminate termites, including those hidden in walls, floors, and furniture. Products such as Vikane® and Zythor® are commonly used for this type of treatment. https://static.wixstatic.com/media/cd6c63_d44f196f995747958498e59cf1d33149~mv2.jpg https://static.wixstatic.com/media/cb6e89_25a751d3339948f88bc591a4df18e0d0~mv2.png

The fumigation process usually takes a portion of three days and two nights. Your professional fumigator seals your home with tarps or other methods and releases a warning agent into the home. A gas fumigant is then introduced into the home. Your professional fumigator will carefully calculate the amount needed based on a variety of factors, including the target pest, temperature, and size of the structure. The typical house fumigation involves approximately 18-24 hours of exposure. After the fumigation is complete, your fumigator aerates the fumigant from the structure following label instructions, and tests the air with sensitive gas monitoring equipment to confirm that it is safe to re-enter the building.

Unlike some treatment options, the fumigant used in structural fumigation does not remain in the home after the process is complete. It dissipates during aeration and does not leave surface residues behind. It is not necessary to wash dishes, linens, or clothing following fumigation, as the fumigant fully dissipates from the structure.

Sulfuryl fluoride in the gaseous state does not react with most materials and thus is highly unlikely to cause damage to structures or their contents when properly applied.   In rare cases, moisture in the air can condense during the fumigation process if the fumigant is introduced too quickly. This condensation may affect certain sensitive materials. Licensed fumigators are trained to carefully control the introduction rate and use proper ventilation methods to ensure the fumigant is evenly dispersed and to prevent this from occurring.

Leaving the air conditioning on is desirable when homeowners have temperature sensitive items inside the house, such as wine cellars, computers that must be kept cool, etc. In most residential homes the air conditioning may be left running during the fumigation, provided the compressor unit, which normally sits outside the structure, is NOT covered by the tarps. Window air conditioning units are not suitable to be left on because they would normally be covered by the tarps.

Fumigation can be performed year-round. While temperature can influence the amount of fumigant required, licensed fumigators adjust the dosage based on site conditions, including temperature, structure size, and the target pest. Because of this, fumigation remains an effective treatment option in all seasons when performed in accordance with label requirements.

Fumigation does not prevent future infestations. However, Proven Termite Solutions provides a full three year guarantee from the original date of completion and in most cases an annual renewal guarantee is available at the beginning of the fourth year.

Your professional licensed fumigator will take several steps to ensure the structure is secure and safe throughout the process: • Release a warning agent to deter entry to the home. • Secure doors using secondary locks or barricades to prevent unauthorized access • Use specialized equipment to test the air and confirm that the fumigant has dissipated The fumigant must be below U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements (1 ppm or less) in all breathing zones before the structure is cleared for re-entry. Once the fumigator has certified the structure as safe, you may return to your home.

A warning agent is used during fumigation to help prevent unauthorized or accidental entry into a structure while treatment is in progress. These materials are introduced in small amounts prior to the fumigant and are designed to create a strong, noticeable sensory response—such as eye irritation or tearing—at very low concentrations. This provides an added layer of protection by making the presence of fumigation conditions immediately apparent. Warning agents are used at controlled levels to provide effective notice without leaving lingering effects once the structure has been properly aerated. Products such as Chloropicrin and Lacrythor® are commonly used as fumigation warning agents. Your licensed fumigator will introduce the appropriate warning agent prior to releasing the fumigant, following all label requirements and safety procedures.

Warning agents are used at very low application rates—typically about 1 fluid ounce or less per 10,000 cubic feet of fumigation space—resulting in a controlled concentration within the structure. After the fumigation period, the fumigator will aerate both the fumigant and the warning agent following established procedures. Before the structure is cleared for re-entry, air levels are tested to confirm they meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) safety requirements. When properly applied and fully aerated, fumigation is considered a controlled structural treatment, and the structure is not cleared for re-entry until it has been confirmed safe.

Fumigation is designed so that no one is present in the home during treatment. Before allowing re-entry, your fumigator is required to test the air using specialized equipment to confirm that fumigant levels meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements (1 ppm or less in all breathing zones). The structure is not cleared for re-entry until it has been confirmed safe in accordance with these standards for any person(s) to return.

It is possible for properly sealed fumigation bags to appear inflated while still remaining airtight. Changes in temperature during the fumigation process can cause the air inside the bags to expand. If the bags were intact, properly sealed, and show no signs of damage (such as holes, tears, or unsealed openings), the contents are considered protected. However, if there is any indication that the bags were compromised, the items should not be consumed. Items left in the structure must be double-bagged using approved fumigation bags, such as Nylofume® or Fumiguard®, which are designed to resist penetration by fumigants.

Before fumigation begins, your licensed fumigator will inspect the home to confirm that all food and consumable items have either been properly removed or correctly sealed in approved bags. If any items are found to be improperly stored, they will be removed from the structure prior to treatment. If any items are suspected to have been improperly stored or not protected as required, they should not be consumed and should be discarded. If you have concerns about a specific item, please contact our office (/contact-us)for guidance.

Sulfuryl fluoride fumigation does not react with most materials typically found in a home, including fabrics, furniture, electronics, antiques, and household surfaces, when applied according to label requirements. This treatment has been widely used in a variety of settings—including homes, museums, historical landmarks, rare book libraries, government archives, and research facilities—because it is non-reactive with common materials. Electronics, appliances, antiques, and standard household items are not affected by the fumigation process. For specialty items such as photographic developing materials and related chemicals, it is recommended that they be sealed or removed prior to fumigation. These materials should not be left exposed in open containers or trays. If you have questions about specific items in your home, your inspector can provide guidance prior to your scheduled fumigation.

Fumigation is typically completed over the course of three days and two nights, though timing may vary depending on the structure and conditions. • Day 1 (Preparation & Fumigation): The structure is sealed with tarps, secured, and prepared. A warning agent is applied, followed by the introduction of the fumigant. • Day 2 (Aeration): The fumigator begins the aeration process to remove the fumigant from the structure. • Day 3 (Clearance & Re-Entry): Tarps are removed, air is tested using specialized equipment, and the structure is cleared for re-entry once it meets EPA safety requirements. For a more detailed breakdown of each step, please refer to our Fumigation Process Guide.(/termite-fumigation-process)