FAQs
Many question the advantages and disadvantages about localized treatment versus termite fumigation (tenting). The big difference between the two treatments is the completeness of the treatment.
- Fumigation is a whole house treatment and will eradicate ALL drywood termite infestations including hidden infestations and infestations extending into inaccessible areas in the entire house.
- Local Treatment will only be effective in the specific area(s) treated and may only control or diminish infestations as opposed to complete eradication. Also, local treatment is only applied to visible and accessible areas of infestation.
Some of the other differences between the two treatments that may affect which treatment you chose are price, work required to prepare for fumigation, and the need to vacate the building for fumigation.
Yes! We have a detailed page on termite fumigation that you should read prior to fumigating including the MSDS of the products used. Fumigation is not applicable for all termite types, either. Fumigation is only used for drywood termites. Subterranean termites require soil injection treatments.
If the termites come back, so do we – It’s that simple.
We try to make our warranties as straightforward as possible, but there are important details and limitations.
Yes. Termites can easily spread to neighboring units, especially in condos, townhomes, or attached buildings where walls, foundations, or structural elements are shared. In the Bay Area, both subterranean and drywood termites are common and either type can move between connected units.
Whenever possible, it’s a good idea to coordinate inspections with your neighbors. A shared approach helps detect activity in adjacent areas and ensures that any treatments are more effective at protecting the entire structure.
You can learn more about treatments the two most common types of termites here:
Short answer: The best time to fumigate is whenever termites are active and an inspection recommends it. You can fumigate a house year round, but weather conditions such as heavy rain or high winds can affect scheduling. The cost and effectiveness is the same year-round.
With that said, there are some technical details we’ll cover. The Bay Area’s mild weather keeps termites active all year, so fumigation (the tenting process) can be done anytime throughout the year. Rain can slow things down so we plan around the forecast to keep things running smoothly. Termites also have lower metabolic rates in colder weather. Therefore, the cooler the temperature, the higher the fumigant dosage needed to achieve effective results. Because we live in a warmer state, this variation is less pronounced than in regions with wider seasonal temperature changes. And regardless of how much is needed, the cost is the same – year round.
In conclusion, for your home, there is no difference in cost or effectiveness. If you’re already seeing termite activity, don’t wait.
Short answer: Termites can attack pressure-treated wood, but it’s much less common than untreated wood.
Why Pressure-Treated Wood Resists Termites
Pressure-treated lumber is infused with preservatives that make the wood far less appealing to termites. This provides strong protection in areas where wood contacts soil, such as decks, fences, and structural framing.
Can Termites Still Damage It?
Yes—under certain conditions:
- Aging and weathering: as the wood ages and preservatives gradually diminish, it becomes more vulnerable.
- Moisture exposure: constant dampness can weaken the treatment and attract subterranean termites.
- It has cuts, cracks, and untreated ends: termites often exploit areas where the preservative didn’t fully penetrate.
- Bypassing the surface: subterranean termites may build mud tubes over pressure-treated wood to reach untreated materials.
Bottom Line
Pressure-treated wood is termite-resistant, not termite-proof. It offers strong protection but can still be damaged if conditions favor termite activity.