Fumigation is the introduction of a gaseous chemical in an enclosed space for the elimination of termites or wood boring beetles.

Fumigants penetrate cracks, crevices, pores in wood, and therefore are ideally suited for the control of wood destroying pests that other types of pesticides cannot reach.  Sulfuryl fluoride, the active ingredient of Vikane was developed for structural fumigation, particularly drywood termites. It is nonflammable and nonstaining, and will not react with items or compounds in the structures.

Because Vikane is colorless and odorless, a vacating agent (tear gas) is necessary to insure that all people and pets are out of the structure.

The first step is to completely seal the structure.   This is done to contain the fumigant in the structure so it can penetrate wood and construction members to eliminate the pests.  Depending on the construction of the building, the doors and windows may be sealed with tape and a plastic sheet, but it is more common for the structure to be covered with tarps.  The structure will remain sealed for 32-48 hours, depending on the specific conditions of the job. Warning signs are posted around the building notifying people that the property is being fumigated.  After the tarps are removed, a fumigator will aerate the structure by opening the doors and windows.   Fans may also be used to aerate the building.  After the structure has been thoroughly aerated, a fumigator will measure the level of fumigant remaining to ensure that it complies with label requirements and state and federal guidelines.