The cost of termite tenting ranges from $2,000 to $8,000 for an average 2,000-square-foot home. Termite tenting, also called fumigation, is the costliest pest control method but is one of the more effective treatments for stubborn termites. The exact cost of fumigation depends on several factors, including the size of your home and the severity of the infestation.

Terminix charges $400 to $1,500 per year for termite treatment, which includes an annual inspection. Orkin charges $500 to $1,600 to remove termites.

You should expect to pay around $1 to $4 per square foot for termite tenting services. Termite tenting kills termites at every life stage, reducing the likelihood of reinfestations.

Termite tenting is a whole-house pest control method for severe termite infestations. The entire home is sealed with a tent or tarps and the space is pumped with chemicals that kill the bugs and their eggs throughout the home. Pest control professionals use gas, solid, or liquid fumigants but gas fumigation is the most common method.

After the treatment, most termite specialists will return periodically to inspect the home and make sure there is no re-infestation. The follow-up inspections are a critical step in maintaining a pest-free home after fumigation.

Termite tenting takes from 24 to 72 hours, depending on the severity of the infestation. This time includes setting up the tent or tarps, treating the home with fumigants, and ventilating the home until it is safe for people and pets to return.

Fumigation is also used for pests other than termites. Some infestations such as bed bugs benefit from this expensive but effective treatment.

While the fumigation process takes 1 to 3 days or more, the pest control treatment should last for several months or longer, depending on the severity of the infestation. Most pest control companies will continue to provide regular inspections after fumigation to ensure no termites were left behind to repopulate. Ongoing quarterly or annual pest control plans are common after a tent treatment to prevent another infestation.

Before you have your home tented for termites, be sure to:

• Arrange a place to stay for 1 to 3 days
• Pack everything you may want during that time, especially your medications since you won't have access to the house.
• Remove food, drinks, and medicine from the home unless they are stored in an airtight container.
• Seal any cracks or openings around windows or doors with duct tape or plastic sheeting to prevent the chemicals from escaping.
• Turn off your utilities, including electricity, gas, and water.

Tenting uses toxic chemicals, so all people, pets, and plants must be removed from the home. Food, drinks, and medicines should be removed from the home or stored in airtight containers to keep them safe. Most personal hygiene items like toothpaste and shampoo are not affected by the chemicals and can be left in the home during fumigation.

Appliances and electronics are not damaged by the chemicals and are safe to stay during fumigation. Clothing and bedding should also stay in the home so that any pests living in the fabrics are treated. However, fabrics will have a lingering scent and you will need to wash the clothes and bedding to remove any smells or residue.

When choosing a fumigation exterminator, be sure to ask these important questions:

• How long have you been performing termite tenting in my area?
• Do you have a list of references with contact details?
• Will the technicians treating my home be certified or licensed?
• How much do tenting and fumigation services cost?
• Will I need any follow-up services after the initial treatment?
• Do you come back later to inspect for reinfestation?
• How long will I be forced out of my home?
• Do I need to take the food out of my pantry before you fumigate?

Seek help from an experienced fumigator before the termites cause damage to your home. Follow these recommendations to find the best fumigator for your pest control needs:

• Look for licensed, insured, and bonded exterminators that use fumigation regularly.
• Inquire about their expertise, services, fees, and payment plans.
• Confirm the company specializes in termite tenting treatments.
• Check online references and reviews on Google and HomeGuide.
• Discuss any recommendations for ongoing monthly, quarterly, or annual treatments.