When dealing with a termite infestation, you may need to choose between spot treatment and tent fumigation. Selecting the most effective termite control for your home or business requires making an informed decision based on several factors. Read on to learn what each treatment involves to determine which method might work best for your situation. 

Spot Treatment: A Closer Look

Spot treatment is a two-step process. First, the pest control team drills multiple holes into the infested areas. Then, they inject termiticide, a chemical specifically designed to kill termites, into those holes. If the infestation is severe, termite control professionals may recommend opening hard-to-reach areas for better access and treatment.

Pros of Spot Treatments:

• No need to leave your home.
• Faster and easier preparation.
• Often completed faster than fumigation.
• Treatment is applied directly to affected areas.
• More environmentally friendly due to using fewer chemicals. 
• Provides lasting effects in targeted areas.
• More affordable than tent fumigation.

Cons of Spot Treatments:

• Does not reach termites in inaccessible areas.
• Requires accurate identification of termite infestations.
• Only provides localized treatment. 
• Multiple treatments may be necessary. 
• Not suitable for all types of structures and property designs.

Bottom line: Spot treatment is a good choice for early-stage, localized drywood termite infestations, especially in easily accessible areas. 

Tent Fumigation: What to Know

Termite fumigation, also referred to as termite tenting or tent fumigation, involves covering the entire structure with a large, tent-like tarp before treatment begins. A fumigant gas is then released into the sealed space, allowing it to penetrate deeply and eliminate termites throughout the building. 

Fumigation is a heavily involved process that requires thorough preparation, including leaving the property for up to 72 hours, relocating pets, and removing plants, unsealed food, medication, and other sensitive items ahead of time. A certified termite expert measures air levels with a fumiscope for safety before allowing owners to return. If your home or business is attached to other structures, tent fumigation may be your only option. 

Pros of Termite Fumigation:

• Targets all existing termite colonies throughout the building.
• Reaches hard-to-access areas and non-accessible spots. 
• Eliminates all pests throughout the building. 
• The most effective treatment available.
• No drilling needed. 

Cons of Termite Fumigation:

• Requires leaving a house or business for up to 72 hours. 
• Requires removing all non-factory sealed food, medication, and indoor plants.
• More expensive than other options. 
• Gas service, HVAC, and some appliances may need to be disconnected. 
• Harmful to humans, pets, and plants if accidentally ingested.  

Bottom line: Tent fumigation, while requiring extra preparation, is a highly effective method for eliminating severe, widespread termite infestations. It is also the only option when accessibility is a concern. 

Which Termite Control Method Is Right for You?

Choosing the right termite treatment method depends on several factors. You need to consider the severity of your infestation, the layout of your property, and how much disruption you are willing to manage. The total cost of the treatment may also affect your decision-making. Less expensive spot treatment may be ideal for localized, early-stage problems, while tent fumigation is more costly but offers a whole-structure solution for more extensive infestations. 

If you are unsure which route to take, a professional inspection is the first step. For expert termite control in Pompano Beach, contact Command Pest Control, a veteran-owned company with a 20-year history of dealing with termites and other pests. We offer spot treatment and tent fumigation. Call us at 954-943-0008 or contact us online to schedule an inspection. Our professional team will assess your situation and recommend the best option for your home or business.