When San Diego homeowners discover termites, one of the first questions they face is “Do I need to fumigate my house, or can I avoid tenting altogether?”
The truth is, both fumigation and non-fumigation termite treatments can be effective, but the right choice depends on the type of termites, the extent of the infestation, and your home’s structure.
Talos Pest Control, specializes in customizing our termite solutions to your situation, not a one-size-fits-all approach. Here’s a breakdown of each method to help you make an informed decision.
Fumigation (Tenting): The Full-Structure Approach
What It Is:
Fumigation involves covering the entire home with a gas-tight tent and releasing a fumigant that penetrates all wood surfaces to eliminate drywood termites throughout the structure.
Best For:
- Widespread drywood termite infestations.
- Hidden colonies inside walls, attics, and furniture.
- Homes that have multiple areas of damage.
Pros:
✅ Reaches all hidden colonies—walls, beams, furniture, even inaccessible areas.
✅ Fast—complete eradication usually in 2–3 days.
✅ Thorough—kills both active termites and eggs.
Cons:
❌ Requires homeowners to vacate for 48–72 hours.
❌ Does not prevent re-infestation (no residual protection).
❌ Food and plants must be removed or sealed.
What It Means for You:
If an inspection reveals multiple colonies throughout your home, fumigation is often the most effective and permanent first step. Afterward, Talos Pest Control recommends follow-up preventative spot treatments to guard against reinfestation.
Non-Fumigation Treatments: Localized and Preventative Options
What They Are:
Non-fumigation termite treatments target specific areas of activity using localized applications of foams, liquids, dusts, or heat. These methods eliminate termites without the need to tent your home.
Best For:
- Isolated termite activity in one or two areas.
- Homeowners looking for less disruption.
- Subterranean termite infestations, which live in soil and require barrier or bait systems.
Types of Non-Fumigation Treatments:
- Local Spot Treatment: Direct injection into infested wood.
- Soil Barrier Treatment: For subterranean termites—protects from the ground up.
- Bait Systems: Monitors and eliminates colonies outside the home.
- Bora-Care or Orange Oil Treatments: Natural, eco-friendly options for mild infestations.
Pros:
✅ No need to vacate your home.
✅ Lower cost for small infestations.
✅ Provides preventative protection when used proactively.
✅ Eco-friendly options available through Talos’s green termite program.
Cons:
❌ Only effective in the areas treated.
❌ May not reach deeply hidden colonies.
❌ Requires accurate inspection and follow-up monitoring.
What It Means for You:
For smaller or early-stage infestations, localized or soil-based treatments can save you time and money while maintaining long-term protection.
Fumigation vs. Non-Fumigation: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Fumigation (Tenting) | Non-Fumigation (Localized) |
| Effectiveness | Whole-structure | Targeted to treated areas |
| Best for | Drywood termites, severe infestations | Subterranean or minor drywood infestations |
| Duration | 2–3 days | 1–3 hours |
| Occupancy | Must vacate home | Stay in home |
| Cost Range | $$$ (Higher) | $$ (Moderate to Low) |
| Eco-Friendly Options | No | Yes |
| Residual Protection | No | Yes, with certain products |
| Follow-Up Needed | Preventative treatment recommended | Annual monitoring recommended |
How to Choose the Right Termite Treatment for Your Home
- Identify the species — Drywood termites often require fumigation; subterranean termites need soil-based control.
- Evaluate infestation size — Localized infestations can be treated directly, while larger ones require whole-home solutions.
- Consider your timeline and budget — If you’re selling soon or need fast results, fumigation may be ideal.
- Ask about prevention — Combine treatment with ongoing inspections and moisture control for long-term protection.
Talos Pest Control: San Diego’s Termite Treatment Specialists
Whether you need fumigation or non-fumigation treatment, our experienced team inspects every structure thoroughly before recommending a solution. Talos Pest Control offers:
- Comprehensive termite inspections with species identification.
- Custom treatment plans tailored to your home’s size, structure, and infestation level.
- Eco-friendly and family-safe options for sensitive environments.
- Satisfaction guarantee on all services.
👉 Schedule your termite inspection today.
Protect your investment—and choose a treatment that’s right for your San Diego home.
