Fumigation treats a whole building at once. The structure is sealed under a tent and filled with a gas that works through walls, furniture and stored belongings. It is the most involved bed bug option and is kept for problems that have reached most of a house.
When Tenting Makes Sense
- Signs of bugs show up well beyond the bedrooms.
- Heat or chemical treatment was tried and did not work.
- Belongings are too many to treat item by item.
- A house and attached quarters all need treating together.
How Structural Fumigation Works in California
- AssessA fumigator sizes up the house and gives you a written list of prep tasks.
- SealThe building goes under a tent and warning signs are posted.
- FumigateThe licensed fumigator introduces the gas and keeps it at the required level for the set period.
- ClearOnce the tent is removed, the house is ventilated and air readings are taken before anyone returns.
Fumigation on Alpine Properties
A tent covers one structure at a time, so on a lot with a detached guest house or barn apartment, ask whether each building needs tenting or a separate method. Hilly driveways, trees and fencing can affect how the crew sets up, and a good quote explains why tenting beats heat or chemicals for your home.
How to Prep
- Bag food, medicine and pet food in approved bags or take them away.
- Plan 2 to 3 nights elsewhere for everyone, pets included.
- Water plants near the foundation and cut back brush touching the walls.
- Open gates and clear paths so the crew can reach every side.
Questions About Fumigation
How many nights should we plan to be away?
Usually 2 to 3 nights, until the home is aired out and cleared by air testing.
Does tenting keep bed bugs from coming back?
No. Nothing stays behind once the house clears, so a single bug carried home next month could begin a new colony. Many companies add a residual treatment after clearance.
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 Alpine. That company inspects, quotes and does the work.