101 Exterminators
101 Exterminators
(831) 500-1613

Fumigation in Berkeley, CA

Full-Structure Vikane Fumigation · Drywood Termites · Bed Bugs

When a drywood termite infestation has spread beyond what localized treatments can effectively address — multiple infested structural members, evidence throughout the framing, or inaccessible areas — fumigation is the single most thorough treatment available. 101 Exterminators performs full-structure fumigation using Vikane (sulfuryl fluoride), the industry's gold standard fumigant, providing complete penetration to every void, joint, beam, and piece of framing in your structure.. Serving Berkeley and surrounding Alameda County.

Why Berkeley Homes Need Fumigation Services

Drywood termite pressure in coastal Monterey and Santa Cruz counties is significant — the combination of older wood-frame construction and Mediterranean climate creates ideal conditions for colony establishment throughout structural framing. When colonies are present in multiple locations, localized treatment addresses individual galleries but leaves others untreated. Full fumigation eliminates all colonies simultaneously, including those in inaccessible cavities.

Drywood termites in pre-1930 construction are the dominant structural pest concern in Berkeley. The volume of un-treated or under-treated historic housing is exceptionally high. Subterranean termites are active in fog-belt flatland neighborhoods and creek-adjacent properties. Berkeley's real estate market is one of the most active in the East Bay — WDO inspection demand is high and buyers are sophisticated about what a Section 1 finding means for transaction negotiations.

Berkeley Climate

Berkeley's climate transitions from the foggy flatlands near the Bay to the warmer, drier hillside neighborhoods above the UC campus. The flats receive more marine fog, supporting subterranean termite activity in moist soils. The hills and hillside neighborhoods are warmer and drier — ideal drywood termite territory with swarms active from May through October. Annual rainfall averages 22–25 inches in the hills.

Housing Stock

Berkeley's housing stock is among the oldest in the East Bay. The flatland and hillside neighborhoods have exceptional concentrations of pre-1930 construction — Craftsman bungalows, brown shingled homes, and Edwardian flats built by the architects and developers who shaped Bay Area residential architecture. Many of these structures have original old-growth Douglas fir framing, minimal previous termite treatment history, and structural configurations that allow lateral colony spread through shared spaces. The hills have 1920s–1940s construction with their own significant termite histories. Post-war development in South Berkeley and West Berkeley is more modern but not immune.

Why Local Expertise Matters

Berkeley's historic housing stock is among the most complex termite inspection environments in California. The specific structural characteristics of brown shingle homes, the lateral colony spread common in Craftsman blocks, and the historic preservation considerations that affect treatment options all require direct field experience. We bring SPCB License #9119 and deep East Bay expertise to every Berkeley inspection.

Signs You Need Fumigation Service in Berkeley

We manage the entire fumigation process: pre-fumigation inspection and documentation, structure tenting with certified fumigation tarps, introduction of Vikane fumigant to specified concentration, aeration protocol, post-fumigation clearance testing, and coordination with a certified fumigation clearance company before you return. We also provide bagging requirements and preparation guidance for food, medications, and plants.

Multiple locations of frass (termite pellets) throughout the structure — not just one area

Evidence of drywood termites in structural framing, not just surface wood

Previous localized treatments that have not resolved the infestation

Inspector-identified infestation in inaccessible areas (wall cavities, sealed areas)

WDO report showing extensive Section 1 conditions throughout the structure

Visible winged termites (swarmers) emerging from multiple locations

Our Fumigation Process in Berkeley

Every job follows the same methodical approach — no shortcuts, no guesswork. Here is what to expect when you work with us in Berkeley.

01

Pre-Fumigation Inspection

We document all entry points, confirm the infestation scope, measure the structure for gas calculation, and review the preparation checklist with you at least 3 days before the fumigation date.

02

Structure Tenting

Our crew tents the entire structure with specialized fumigation tarps, sealed at the foundation to prevent gas escape. Neighbors are notified as required, and warning signs are posted.

03

Gas Introduction & Monitoring

Vikane is introduced to calculated concentration and held for the required exposure time. Readings are monitored throughout the process to confirm effective dosage.

04

Aeration & Clearance

The structure is thoroughly aerated until Vikane levels are below the safe entry threshold. A certified third-party inspector confirms clearance levels before we authorize re-entry.

Fumigation You Can Count On in Berkeley

Complete Structure Coverage

Gas fumigant penetrates every void, cavity, and piece of wood in the structure — including areas impossible to reach with liquid or foam treatments.

Vikane — Industry Gold Standard

Vikane (sulfuryl fluoride) is the most widely used and thoroughly studied structural fumigant. It leaves no residual after aeration — the structure is safe to re-enter after clearance.

Third-Party Clearance Testing

Re-entry is only authorized after independent clearance testing confirms gas levels are below threshold. No guesswork on when your home is safe.

Real Estate Compliant

Fumigation clears all Section 1 termite conditions for real estate transactions. We issue the required Completion Notice accepted by lenders and escrow companies.

Fumigation FAQs for Berkeley

How long do we need to be out of the house for fumigation?

Plan for 3 full days and 2 nights out of the structure for a typical residential fumigation. Day 1: tent and introduce gas. Day 2: maintain concentration and begin aeration. Day 3: complete aeration, clearance testing, and re-entry authorization. We provide exact timelines at booking.

What do we need to remove from the house before fumigation?

Food, medications, vitamins, and pet food must be removed or placed in Nylofume bags (we supply these). Plants, cut flowers, and all living organisms including pets must be out. We provide a complete preparation checklist that is reviewed with you at the pre-fumigation inspection.

Does fumigation affect my furniture, electronics, or belongings?

Vikane is a gas that penetrates and then dissipates — it does not leave residue on surfaces or damage electronics, fabrics, or materials. Normal household items do not need special preparation beyond the food and medication bagging requirements.

Will fumigation kill other pests besides termites?

Yes — fumigation kills all insects present in the structure including bed bugs, cockroaches, stored product insects, and other pests. However, fumigation does not leave residual protection, so re-infestation from the exterior can occur afterward.

Is fumigation guaranteed?

We provide a written warranty on the treated infestation for drywood termites. If the same colony reappears post-fumigation (which is rare given proper dosage), we investigate and retreat at no charge.

Free Fumigation Inspection in Berkeley

CA licensed and insured. Written estimate before any work begins. Same-day response available for urgent situations in Berkeley.

Trusted by Berkeley families since 2005