What You Need to Know About Fumigation

By Westfall’s Lawn & Pest

When pests invade your home or business, some situations call for more than routine treatments. Fumigation is one of the most effective solutions for eliminating severe or deeply embedded infestations. At Westfall’s Lawn & Pest, we believe in helping our customers understand their options so they can make informed decisions about protecting their property.

What Is Fumigation?

Fumigation is a specialized pest control method that uses a gas (fumigant) to penetrate every part of a structure. Unlike surface treatments, fumigation reaches into walls, furniture, and hard-to-access areas where pests often hide.

This process is commonly used for:

Drywood termites
Bed bugs
Severe infestations of stored product pests
Other pests that are difficult to eliminate with standard treatments

When Is Fumigation Necessary?

Fumigation is typically recommended when:

An infestation is widespread or deeply established
Other treatment methods have not been successful
Pests are located in areas that cannot be easily treated directly

For example, drywood termites—common in Florida—can live inside wood structures, making them especially difficult to control without a comprehensive solution like fumigation.

What to Expect During the Process

Fumigation involves several important steps to ensure safety and effectiveness:

Preparation – Residents and pets must vacate the property. Food, plants, and certain items may need to be removed or sealed.
Sealing the Structure – The building is covered (often with a tent) to contain the fumigant.
Treatment – The fumigant is released and allowed to circulate throughout the structure.
Aeration – After treatment, the structure is ventilated to ensure it is safe to re-enter.

Our team at Westfall’s Lawn & Pest carefully guides you through each step to make the process as smooth as possible.

Is Fumigation Safe?

When performed by licensed professionals, fumigation is a safe and highly regulated process. Safety protocols are strictly followed, and the property is thoroughly tested before re-entry is allowed.

Preventing Future Infestations

After fumigation, it’s important to maintain ongoing pest control to prevent reinfestation. Regular inspections and preventative treatments can help protect your home or business long-term.

Trust Westfall’s Lawn & Pest

With over 20 years of experience serving Bradenton and surrounding areas, Westfall’s Lawn & Pest is committed to delivering effective, reliable pest control solutions. Whether you’re dealing with termites or another serious pest issue, our team is here to help you every step of the way.

If you suspect a serious infestation or want to learn more about fumigation, contact Westfall’s Lawn & Pest today for a professional inspection.