Fumigation treats a whole building at once. The house is sealed under tarps, and a gas spreads through the walls, the furniture and everything stored inside. Because it is the heaviest option available, companies save it for bed bug problems found throughout most of a house.
When Tenting Makes Sense
- Bugs have turned up in most rooms, not only bedrooms.
- Heat or chemical treatment was tried and did not work.
- There are too many belongings to treat one by one.
- The infestation is so widespread that room by room work would take months.
How Structural Fumigation Works in California
- AssessThe fumigator measures the home and gives you a written prep list.
- CoverTarps go over the house and warning signs are posted.
- FumigateA licensed fumigator releases the gas and keeps it at the required level for the labeled time.
- VentilateTarps come off, the house airs out and the air is tested before reentry.
Fumigation Around Pala
Tenting is a familiar sight in San Diego County because of drywood termite work, and bed bug fumigation follows much the same routine. Manufactured homes and RVs are usually handled differently from a framed house, so ask what the company suggests for them. On a grove or horse property, make sure the crew can reach every wall past fences, trees and parked equipment.
How to Prepare
- Remove food, medicine and animal feed, or seal them in the bags the company provides.
- Book 2 to 3 nights somewhere else for everyone, pets included.
- Arrange for someone to feed and water horses or chickens kept near the house.
- Pull firewood, brush and stored items away from the walls.
Questions About Fumigation
How many nights away should we plan for?
Plan for 2 to 3 nights while the house ventilates and the crew runs the air tests that clear it for reentry.
Will tenting keep bed bugs away for good?
No. The gas leaves no residue, so bugs brought in later can start over. Many companies follow up with a residual treatment.
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 Pala. That company inspects, quotes and does the work.