Termites cost Americans over $5 billion in property damage every year. Tenting your home is the best way to stop termite infestation.
For some, preparing for termite tenting can be intimidating. It’s a lot to think about, and it’s hard to know where to begin.
If you are wondering how to prepare before tenting your house for termites, these tips can help get you started.
1. Have a Plan for Where You’re Going
Tenting your house for termites is a lengthy and hectic process. You will probably be without your home for several days.
It’s important to plan ahead so that everyone in the house, including your pets, have somewhere else to stay during this time.
Consider staying with a friend or relative. If that’s not an option, you can book a hotel or Airbnb for everyone in your family while the tenting process is underway.
2. Pack Your Belongings
You will live out of a suitcase while the tenting process is ongoing. It’s important to pack everything that you need so that you are ready to go when the tenting company arrives on your property.
Pack clothes, shoes, valuables, documents, medications, toiletries, and other necessities.
Be sure to pack items you will need during the tenting process as well, such as your toothbrush or makeup. If you have pets, be sure to pack their food bowls and any medications they may need.
3. Remove All Perishable Foods
It’s important to remove all perishable foods before tenting your home for termite problems.
This includes food in the refrigerator, freezer, and pantry. The reason for this is that the temperature inside your home will increase during tenting, which can cause food to spoil.
Avoid this problem by removing all perishable items before your termite tenting.
4. Open Cabinets, Drawers and Closets
In order to insure proper aeration and fumigation of your home, all closets, drawers, and cabinets must be open a minimum of 4 inches. Raise your blinds, open any drapes and windows, and open the attic vent if you have one. Windows will be left open during the entirety of the tent process to ensure proper gas is distributed throughout your entire home.
5. Turn Off the Gas
If you have gas, it’s best to have it turned off before the tenting.
The reason is that there’s a chance a fumigant can cause an explosion in your home. You’re not likely to have any gas leaks, but it’s always better to be safe rather than sorry.
If you don’t know how to turn off the gas, ask a professional for help.
Prepare for Termite Tenting: Make the Process As Easy as Possible
Preparing for termite tenting isn’t as simple as just waiting for the tent to arrive.
There are many things you can do to make the process as easy as possible. By following the tips above, you’ll be able to make sure that everything goes smoothly when the tent arrives. To help you further, here is our list of the Client’s Duties in Preparing for Fumigation.
At Chet’s Termite & Pest Management, we can help you with every step of the termite tenting process. Contact us today to get started!