If you've noticed those bold, striped tents popping up in your neighborhood, it's not a circus—it's a professional, precise, and powerful termite elimination process. At The Termite Guy, we approach fumigation seriously, using specialized fumigants designed to penetrate every crevice and eliminate termites entirely.
Curious about what happens during home fumigation? Let's explore the detailed step-by-step process, so you're fully informed and prepared.
Fumigation Preparation Phase: Before the Tent Goes Up
Before fumigation, here's what you need to do:
- Double-Bagging Essentials: We'll provide a video guide explaining how to securely double-bag all food, animal feed, and medications.
- Gas Company Coordination: Schedule your gas restoration appointment ahead of time (usually requires 24–48 hours advance notice).
- Vacating the Property: All residents, pets, and plants must leave the premises during fumigation.
- Utilities Requirements: Ensure water and electricity remain turned on:
- Water is essential for securing the fumigation tarps using water-filled weights called water snakes.
- Electricity powers aeration fans used post-treatment to ensure a safe re-entry.
Fumigation Timeline: Day by Day
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Day 1 – Tent Installation and Gas Introduction
- Gas Shut-Off: Your gas company arrives between 7–11 AM to turn off and tag your gas meter (do not remove the tag).
- Home Preparation: Be ready for the day without gas, planning accordingly for cooking, heating, and hot water.
- Tent Installation: Our team secures your property using heavy-duty tarps, weighted securely with sand and water weights.
- Interior Preparations: We meticulously check the interior of your property to ensure everything is properly prepped for fumigation. Our team confirms the removal—or proper storage—of required items for a safe and effective process:
- Food, medicine, vitamins, pet food, and feed must be removed or double-bagged in special Nylofume bags.
- All plants, pets, and people must be removed from the property.
- We verify that cabinets, drawers, appliances, safes, closets, attics, and basements are open to allow full fumigant circulation.
- Safes are inspected—please remove any valuables ahead of time for your peace of mind.
- Securing Your Home: After preparation, we add secondary locks and post clear warning signs.
- Gas Treatment: A licensed fumigator introduces Vikane® Gas Fumigant into your home, effectively penetrating wood and reaching hidden termites

Day 2 – Aeration Process Begins
- Integrity Check: Our team returns to ensure the tent remains intact.
- Aeration Initiation: Aeration fans are activated, beginning the process of safely dispersing fumigation gases.
Day 3 – Tent Removal and Safe Re-Entry
- Tent Removal: Tarps are carefully and professionally removed.
- Air Quality Testing: A licensed fumigator performs specialized air sampling to confirm all fumigation gas has dissipated.
- Safety Certification: Once confirmed safe, we issue a formal Re-Entry Notice, clearly indicating the precise date and time for your safe return.
- Security Removal: Locks and warning signs are removed, signaling that your home is ready to re-enter.
After Fumigation: Returning Home Safely

After fumigation, here's what to expect:
- Wait for Clearance: Only return after receiving the official Re-Entry Notice.
- Gas Restoration: Ensure your gas service restoration is scheduled; utility companies typically require seeing the posted Re-Entry Notice.
- Resuming Normal Life: Safely unpack your double-bagged items and enjoy the comfort of your termite-free home.
Why Choose The Termite Guy?
Choosing The Termite Guy means opting for:
- Extensive Experience: Over 25 years dedicated exclusively to termite solutions.
- Licensed Contractor: In-house termite damage repairs without needing third-party involvement.
- Rapid Service: We provide inspection reports within 24 hours.
- Quality Assurance: A comprehensive 5-year warranty on fumigation services.
- Exceptional Care: Our commitment to professionalism, efficiency, and outstanding customer service.
Ready to protect your home and eliminate termites thoroughly? Contact The Termite Guy today or call 877-TERMITE and regain peace of mind.