If you’ve ever faced a drywood termite infestation, you’ve probably heard the word fumigation tossed around. In South Florida, fumigation (often called “tenting”) is one of the most effective ways to eliminate drywood termite colonies.
But despite its widespread use, many homeowners misunderstand what fumigation involves—and what it can and cannot do. At TORO Pest, we often hear concerns or misconceptions that prevent people from making informed decisions about their termite treatment.
Here’s a breakdown of common fumigation myths and the facts every South Florida homeowner should know.
Myth 1: Fumigation Is Always the Only Solution
Reality:
While fumigation is the gold standard for widespread or hard-to-reach drywood termite infestations, it’s not always necessary.
✅ Localized infestations can often be treated with spot applications or direct wood injections.
✅ Small or early-stage colonies may be controlled without tenting if caught in time.
This is why a professional inspection is critical. At TORO Pest, we evaluate the extent of the infestation to recommend the right treatment—not just the most dramatic one.
Myth 2: Fumigation Leaves Chemical Residue on Surfaces
Reality:
Many homeowners worry that after fumigation, their home will be coated in chemicals, making surfaces unsafe for pets or children.
The truth is, fumigation uses a gas (usually sulfuryl fluoride), which penetrates the wood to eliminate termites but does not leave behind residues. Once the home is aerated and cleared, it is completely safe to re-enter.
There’s no need to wash dishes, linens, or surfaces after fumigation—the gas dissipates fully into the air.
Myth 3: Fumigation Protects Against Future Infestations
Reality:
Fumigation is a one-time elimination, not a long-term protective barrier. While it’s highly effective at killing all termites present during treatment, it does not prevent new colonies from invading.
That’s why post-fumigation care matters:
✅ Seal cracks and entry points in your home’s exterior.
✅ Maintain a regular inspection schedule.
✅ Treat vulnerable wood with preventive products when appropriate.
Without these follow-up measures, your home remains vulnerable to reinfestation.
Myth 4: You Have to Throw Away Food and Medications
Reality:
While you do need to bag or remove certain items, you don’t need to throw them away.
Before fumigation, your pest control team will provide special Nylofume bags for:
• Food not sealed in metal, glass, or hard plastic
• Medications
• Pet food and tobacco products
These items are double-bagged and left inside, or you can remove them from the home. Proper preparation ensures that everything remains safe, and nothing is contaminated during the process.
Myth 5: Fumigation Is Dangerous for the Home
Reality:
When handled by licensed professionals, fumigation is safe for your home’s structure and contents.
It does not damage furniture, electronics, appliances, or landscaping (as long as preparation instructions are followed). Professional teams also take extensive precautions to secure your home and monitor gas levels throughout the treatment and aeration process.
How TORO Pest Guides You Through the Process
Fumigation can feel overwhelming, but with the right team, it becomes a smooth and efficient solution. At TORO Pest, we:
✅ Conduct a free inspection to determine if fumigation is necessary.
✅ Provide clear preparation checklists so you know exactly what to do.
✅ Use trained, licensed fumigation professionals to handle every step safely.
✅ Offer post-treatment guidance to help prevent future infestations.
Our goal is not just to eliminate termites—it’s to give you peace of mind throughout the process.
Schedule Your Free Drywood Termite Inspection Today
If you suspect a drywood termite problem, don’t wait for the damage to spread. Call TORO Pest today for a free inspection, and let our experts help you determine whether fumigation or another treatment is right for your home.
With the right information and a trusted team, you can protect your property from termites and the myths that surround them.
