The Circus Tent: Do You Really Need to Fumigate?
Scared of the tent? Learn why Drywood Termites often require fumigation and why 'spot treatments' like Orange Oil usually fail.
It looks like a circus tent, but nobody is laughing.
Seeing your house covered in giant striped tarps is stressful. It's also expensive. So, naturally, every homeowner asks me: "Can't we just spot treat them?"
Here is the hard truth: If you have Drywood Termites, usually the answer is no.
Drywood vs. Subterranean
This is the critical difference.
- Subterranean Termites: Live in the ground. We treat the soil. No tent needed.
- Drywood Termites: Live inside the wood beams of your attic and walls. They don't touch the ground.
Since they are deep inside the wood, sprays can't reach them. You can drill holes and inject foam, but you will miss a spot. And if you miss two termites, the colony rebuilds.
Why Gas is the Only Way
Fumigation uses a gas (Vikane) that penetrates everything. It goes through drywall, insulation, and solid wood beams. It kills every living thing inside that tarp.
I know it sounds scary to pump your house full of gas. But here is the thing: it leaves zero residue. Once the tent comes off and the house airs out, there is no chemical left on your counters or furniture. It's actually cleaner than spraying liquid poison everywhere.
The "Orange Oil" Myth
Salesmen love pushing "Orange Oil" as a natural alternative.
Does it kill termites? Yes, if you pour it directly on them. Does it penetrate thick wood beams to find the hidden nest? No.
I've inspected dozens of homes that used Orange Oil, and five years later, the termites were still eating the roof.