Termite Tenting and Fumigation in San Diego

Whole-structure termite fumigation uses sulfuryl fluoride, commonly known by the brand name Vikane. It is a gas that penetrates all the wood in the structure, kills drywood termites at every life stage, then aerates out completely. It leaves no surface residue, which is why preparation focuses on bagging food rather than cleaning afterward.

Plan on being out for about two to three days. The tent goes on in the evening, the gas works overnight, and the home is aerated and tested the next day or two. You cannot return until a certified operator measures the air and confirms it has cleared to 1 part per million or less.

Remove or double-bag all food, medicine, and pet feed that is not sealed in factory glass, metal, or unopened plastic, including items in unopened cardboard boxes. We provide special Nylofume bags for this. All people, pets, and live plants must leave, and the gas is shut off. We give you a full checklist so nothing is overlooked.

Factory-sealed cans, bottles, and unopened plastic-and-foil packaging can usually stay, but anything in cardboard, paper, or opened packaging must be bagged or removed, even if it looks sealed. When in doubt, bag it. Our checklist spells out exactly what stays and what goes so you are not guessing on tent day.

Yes. Sulfuryl fluoride does not bind to surfaces or leave residue once the home is aerated, and you only return after a measured clearance of 1 ppm or less. That state-required reading, taken room by room in the breathing zone, is what confirms the home is safe to reoccupy.

No. The gas passes through and aerates out of mattresses, clothing, and furniture without leaving residue, so those items stay in the home and do not need bagging. Only food, medicine, and feed need protection. This is one reason fumigation is less disruptive than people expect.

Fumigation eliminates the drywood termites present on treatment day, but it leaves no lasting barrier, so new swarmers could fly in and start a fresh colony years later. That is normal for any fumigation. Periodic inspections catch a new infestation early, and we can advise on preventive options for vulnerable areas.

Whole-structure fumigation for an average San Diego home typically runs between 1,500 and 4,000 dollars, or roughly 1 to 3 dollars per square foot, depending on size, severity, and roof complexity. We give a free inspection and a written estimate before any work. See our termite tenting cost guide for the full breakdown.

Our operators take care to protect the roof when securing the tent, and we ask that you water plants and shrubs near the foundation beforehand and trim or tie back vegetation touching the structure. Plants inside the home are removed. We review property-specific prep with you so your landscaping and roof are protected.