Fumigation treats an entire structure at once. A crew drapes the house in a tent and fills it with a gas that seeps into walls, furniture and stored belongings. Because it is the heaviest option available, it is saved for infestations that have reached nearly every part of a home.
When Tenting Makes Sense
- Signs of bugs show up on several floors and in most bedrooms.
- Heat or chemical treatment has already failed.
- The home holds so many belongings that treating each item is not practical.
- Stored furniture and collections need to be treated along with the rooms.
How Structural Fumigation Works in California
- SurveyA fumigator measures the house and gives you a written prep list.
- CoverThe house is tented and warning signs go up.
- ReleaseThe licensed fumigator adds the gas and keeps it at the set level for as long as required.
- Air outThe tent comes down, the house is ventilated and air testing clears it.
Tenting in Diablo
Diablo lots are known for heritage oaks and mature gardens, and a tent needs clear room around the walls. During the estimate, ask about branches that touch the roof, plantings close to the foundation and where the crew will park on the community's narrow roads. A good quote explains why tenting fits your house better than heat or chemicals.
How to Prepare
- Seal food, medicine and pet food in the special bags the company provides, or move them out.
- Arrange 2 to 3 nights elsewhere for everyone, pets included.
- Water plants beside the house and trim anything touching the walls.
- Leave gates and side yards open so the crew can reach every wall.
Questions About Fumigation
How long are we out of the house?
Plan for 2 to 3 days, until the house is aired out and air testing clears it for people to return.
Will fumigation stop bed bugs from coming back?
No. The gas airs out completely and leaves nothing behind, so a bug that arrives in a suitcase next month faces no barrier. Many 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 Diablo. That company inspects, quotes and does the work.