Whole-house fumigation (tenting with sulfuryl fluoride/Vikane) is the most extreme — and expensive — pest control treatment available. It costs $2,500–8,000+, requires vacating the home for 24–72 hours, and demands extensive preparation. It's also the only treatment that reaches every crack, crevice, and wall void simultaneously. The question is whether your specific situation truly requires it.
Widespread drywood termite infestations: This is the primary use case. Drywood termites live entirely inside wood — no ground contact, no mud tubes. When multiple colonies are found throughout a structure (multiple rooms, multiple floors), localized spot treatments can't reach them all. Fumigation is the only treatment that penetrates every piece of wood simultaneously. Most common in coastal California, Florida, and Hawaii.
Severe powderpost beetle infestations in structural wood: When multiple wood members show active exit holes throughout the structure.
Bed bugs in extreme cases: Rarely, whole-structure fumigation is used for severe bed bug infestations where heat treatment is not feasible (some construction types) and the infestation has spread to wall voids, furniture, and every room. This is uncommon and a last resort.
Subterranean termites: Subterranean termites are treated with liquid barrier treatment (Termidor) or bait systems — not fumigation. Any company recommending fumigation for subterranean termites is either uninformed or upselling.
Cockroaches: Gel bait is dramatically more effective and doesn't require evacuating your home. Foggers and fumigation are counterproductive for cockroaches.
Ants, spiders, or general pests: No general pest warrants fumigation. Ever.
Localized drywood termite infestations: If drywood termites are confirmed in one area (a single window frame, one piece of furniture), localized treatment — foam injection, heat spot treatment, or borate wood treatment — is far less disruptive and often sufficient. Fumigation is reserved for widespread, multi-location infestations.
Preparation is extensive and must be done correctly for the treatment to succeed and for your safety upon return. Our complete fumigation preparation guide covers every step. Key items: remove all food, medicine, and pet food (or double-bag in Nylofume bags). Remove all people, pets, and plants. Arrange alternative housing for 2–3 nights. Water landscaping 18 inches from the foundation to protect plants from the tent seal. Open all interior doors, drawers, and cabinets so gas circulates freely.