Fumigation handles the entire structure in one go. A tent covers the house and a fumigant gas moves into wall cavities, furniture and stored belongings. It is the strongest bed bug option and is saved for cases that have spread through most of a home.
When Tenting Makes Sense
- Bugs have spread to living rooms and closets, not only bedrooms.
- An earlier heat or chemical treatment failed.
- There are too many belongings to treat item by item.
- An attached in-law suite and the main house are both affected.
How Structural Fumigation Works in California
- SurveyA fumigator measures the house and gives you written prep instructions.
- CoverThe home is wrapped in a tent and warning signs go up.
- ReleaseGas is introduced under the tent and held at the required level for the exposure time.
- Air outCrews remove the tarps, vent the rooms and test the air before you return.
Tenting a San Miguel House
Mature trees near the roof, sloped lots and fences close to the walls all shape how a tent goes on. Ask whether branches or shrubs must be cut back, and whether a detached backyard unit will be tented on its own or treated another way. On a narrow street, ask where the crew will park its truck.
Getting the House Ready
- Seal food, medicine and pet food in special bags or take them out.
- Arrange 2 to 3 nights away for the whole household and the pets.
- Water the soil along the foundation and trim plants back from the walls.
- Unlock side gates so the crew can reach every wall.
Questions About Fumigation
How many nights will the family be away from home?
Plan for 2 to 3 nights, which allows for the fumigation, the airing out and the final clearance test.
Will fumigation stop bed bugs from coming back?
No. The gas leaves nothing behind once it clears, so a bag carrying new bugs later could start things over. Some 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 San Miguel. That company inspects, quotes and does the work.