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Drywood termites: tenting and fumigation

Drywood termites are a serious threat because they live and feed entirely inside wood, often going undetected until the damage is extensive. Unlike subterranean termites, which nest in soil and require moisture, drywood termites don’t rely on the ground to survive. Instead, they establish colonies directly within the wooden structures of your home, making them harder to detect and treat. That’s why we offer structural termite fumigation, also known as “termite tenting”. 

Fumigation is a proven method for controlling drywood termites that are difficult to reach with traditional treatments. By sealing a structure and releasing a fumigant gas, we can target these insects hidden deep within wood. This approach allows us to reach termites in every stage of life, from eggs to adults, making termite tenting one of the most comprehensive control techniques.

If your problem is smaller or isolated, your local Ehrlich termite exterminator may also recommend localized treatments, such as direct wood injections or targeted heat applications. No matter the size of the issue, we’ll build a plan that works for your home.

How does termite fumigation work?

To begin,  your home is carefully covered with tarps to form a sealed tent. A fumigant is released and allowed to circulate through the structure, reaching deep inside cracks, crevices, and wood where drywood termites hide. The process is designed to eliminate active termite colonies throughout the entire building. 

Once treatment is complete, the tent is removed, and the home is aerated until the fumigant has fully cleared. Depending on the size of your home and the weather, the entire process usually takes 24 to 72 hours. 

Before anyone returns, your Ehrlich technician will test every room with specialized equipment to confirm that it is completely safe.

Our termite fumigation process

Drywood termites can spread quietly and remain hidden for years. That’s why it’s so important to take action as soon as you spot signs of an infestation, or even if you just suspect one. Here’s how our termite fumigation process goes:

We inspect your property to confirm the type and extent of the infestation

An Ehrlich technician will conduct a thorough inspection of your home or business to determine whether you’re dealing with termites or another pest.

They’ll also assess how widespread the problem is and identify the areas most at risk.

We recommend the best treatment option for your situation

Based on the inspection findings, your technician will outline treatment options tailored to your property.

This may include localized applications, fumigation, or other proven methods designed to address both visible and hidden activity.

We provide guidance on prevention and long-term protection for your home

After treatment, your technician will share practical advice and recommend follow-up services to help reduce the chance of future infestations.

This may include monitoring solutions, sealing entry points, and scheduling regular inspections.

Our technicians can walk you through each step and explain how fumigation fits into a complete termite control plan. You can learn more about our structural fumigation services here.

A home being tented and fumigated for pests

Is termite tenting and fumigation effective?

Structural termite fumigation is one of the most thorough methods available for eliminating drywood termites. It treats every part of a home at once, including hard-to-reach spaces where termites often go unnoticed.

It’s important to remember, however, that tenting a house for termites targets only the termites currently inside the home. It does not prevent future infestations. That’s why many homeowners choose to combine fumigation with proactive protection, such as sealing entry points, maintaining wood surfaces, and scheduling routine inspections with Ehrlich.

Seeing termites?

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Is tenting for termites safe?

At Ehrlich, termite fumigation services are carried out by professionals with decades of industry experience. Our technicians receive ongoing training so they can provide the most efficient fumigation and pest management solutions available. We follow strict operational protocols during every fumigation service to ensure the process is carried out responsibly and in line with regulatory requirements. 

Our technicians also use advanced monitoring tools to measure fumigant levels throughout treatment and to confirm that your space has been properly aerated before re-entry.

Fumigants are designed to eliminate pests, which is why professional oversight and clearance are essential. Your Ehrlich technician will provide clear instructions on how to prepare before treatment, when you can return afterward, and will be available to answer any questions along the way. Always wait for your technician’s confirmation before re-entering your property.

Schedule your free termite inspection today

Drywood termites can be difficult to spot until the damage is already significant. They live deep inside wood, often staying hidden for years while quietly expanding their colonies. Whether you need house tenting for termites or a more localized solution, we can help.

Schedule your free inspection with Ehrlich today and let our experts create a treatment plan that helps protect your home.

Termite resources:

The cost of termite treatment depends on factors like the size of your property, the type of termite, and the severity of the infestation.

Find out the most effective ways to deal with termites and help protect your home from costly damage.

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