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Termite Treatment Options: Fumigation vs Soil Treatment Choosing the Right Method for Your Termite Type

The right termite treatment depends on which type of termites you have. Drywood termites (living in wood) require fumigation or heat treatment. Subterranean termites (living in soil) require soil chemical barriers or bait systems. Here’s how to determine which method you need.
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Termite Type Identification

You Have DRYWOOD Termites If You See:

  • Pellet-like droppings (frass) near windows, in attics, or under wood
  • Small holes in wood with piles of sawdust-like material below
  • Discarded wings near windows (swarmers in late summer/fall)
  • Damage in attic rafters, window frames, or furniture

Treatment needed: FUMIGATION (whole-house tenting).

You Have SUBTERRANEAN Termites If You See:

  • Mud tubes on foundation walls or crawl space
  • Swarmers in early spring (dark winged termites near ground)
  • Wood damage near ground level (foundation sills, floor joists)
  • Moisture problems or poor drainage around foundation

Treatment needed: SOIL TREATMENT (chemical barrier or bait stations).

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What Is Fumigation?

Fumigation (tenting) is a whole-structure treatment that uses Vikane gas to eliminate drywood termites throughout your entire home.

How It Works

  • Day 1: Preparation & Tenting – We seal your home with tarps, you evacuate for 2-3 days
  • Day 2: Fumigation – Vikane gas introduced and maintained for 18-24 hours
  • Day 3: Aeration & Clearance – Home ventilated, air tested, clearance issued

When Recommended:

  • Drywood termites in multiple locations
  • Infestation in inaccessible areas (walls, ceilings)
  • Real estate transactions requiring comprehensive treatment
  • 100% elimination needed

What Is Soil Treatment?

Soil treatment creates a chemical barrier in the soil around and beneath your foundation. Subterranean termites contact the treated soil and die, eliminating the underground colony.

How It Works

Method 1 – Liquid Barrier: Trench foundation, apply termiticide, creates 5-10 year protection

Method 2 – Bait Stations: Install monitoring stations, bait eliminates colony over 6-12 months

When Recommended:

  • Subterranean termites identified (mud tubes present)
  • Active colonies under or around home
  • Long-term barrier protection desired
  • Prevention important

Not Sure Which Treatment You Need?

The right treatment depends on your termite type. Our licensed inspectors identify whether you have drywood termites (requiring fumigation) or subterranean termites (requiring soil treatment), assess damage extent, and recommend the most effective solution.

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What Our Customers Say

I don't know much about the ins and outs of termite eradication so I'm very grateful that I found J & M. From the time I called, yup, I knew I had termites, but had a lot to manage to get fumigation done. Jeannie was reassuring, kind and patient with me over the phone (explained what had to be moved out for fumigation) and Scott, who came out for the inspection added to the pleasant experience. The folks at J&M are caring, considerate and kind and those aren't qualities you usually hear about "contractors." They're more like specialists than contractors. Give them a call if you feel you need a termite inspection and expert advice. They are well worth the time and money.

Sean Pasin

Louis did the inspection and he was thorough and detailed. Before he started the inspection, Louis explained me the process and how long it would take to complete the work. Louis was very efficient and did not waste any time. After each inspection he made notes and the affected area in his layout of the house. He explained me the issues/problems as completed each area. He checked for water leaks and for cracks in the plumbing/drainage. I had termite inspection done few years back and this current inspection was clearly outstanding. Louis helped to clean-up scraps of cardboard underneath the house and change the light bulb in the attic. These are not covered under normal inspection of the house. These extra service always impress the home owners!!! and is PLUS for J&M.

VIJAYA R.

J & M provides a great termites service. Theresa from the office is very professional, appointment scheduling is simple, and she is very quick and responsive in scheduling and returning phone calls. Robert is the lead technician that came for our Termite service. Robert was very professional and courteous. We did had an accident in damaging a water pipe under the concrete in the garage and the plumbing repair work was costly. Although on the Work Authorization contract, J&M is not responsible for the repair cost, they stepped up. Robert and Scott (owner) agreed to work with us and share the repair cost. During this pandemic and economic hardship, J&M not only is professional and stands behind their work, they also have high integrity and an ethical code of gold. They are proud of their work and take responsibility for their actions. This speaks volume of J&M as a business. I highly recommend J&M Termite Control to my social circle and would use them again in a heartbeat.

Laam W.

FAQs

Quick answers to the questions we hear most often. Don’t see your question? Call us at (650) 969-5556.

Not exactly. The treatment method is determined by which type of termites you have. Fumigation ONLY works for drywood termites. Soil treatment ONLY works for subterranean termites. Using the wrong treatment is ineffective.

Both are 100% effective when used for the correct termite type. The question isn't 'which is more effective' - it's 'which is effective for YOUR termite type.'

Fumigation: $2,000-$5,000+ (drywood termites)

Soil Treatment: $1,500-$3,500+ (subterranean termites)

We provide written estimates after inspection showing exact costs.