Heat treatment raises wood temperatures above the thermal death point for all termite life stages — no chemicals, no fumigation tent, and same-day re-entry in most cases. Here's everything you need to know.
What Is Thermal Heat Treatment?
Heat treatment (also called thermal remediation) is a chemical-free termite elimination method that uses propane or electric heaters to raise the internal temperature of infested wood above the lethal threshold for termites. At sustained temperatures of 120–140°F, all drywood termite life stages — eggs, nymphs, soldiers, workers, and reproductives — are killed without a single chemical being applied.
It is one of the cleanest, most environmentally responsible termite treatments available, and it works on all life stages including eggs, which can be more resistant to chemical treatments.
See heat treatment photos in our photo gallery.
The Science: Why Heat Kills Termites
Termites are cold-blooded insects with no ability to regulate their body temperature. When wood temperature reaches:
- 120°F (49°C) — termites begin dying; eggs denatured
- 130°F (54°C) — rapid mortality across all life stages
- 140°F+ (60°C) — complete elimination within minutes
The heat penetrates wood from the surface inward. Our technicians use wireless thermocouple sensors placed throughout the treatment area to verify that all wood members — not just the air — reach and sustain lethal temperatures for the required duration (typically 35–60 minutes at 130°F+).
The Heat Treatment Process
Assessment and Preparation
We identify all infested areas and prepare the space:
- Remove heat-sensitive items: candles, aerosols, certain artwork, plants, and medications
- Protect electronics with thermal blankets or move them temporarily
- All occupants and pets must vacate during treatment
Heating Phase
Industrial heaters raise the treatment area temperature to 150°F+ air temperature. Wood members typically reach lethal core temperatures within 2–4 hours depending on thickness and ambient conditions.
Monitoring
Our technicians monitor thermocouple readings continuously throughout treatment. We don't stop until every sensor — including those in the center of thick structural members — has confirmed sustained lethal temperatures.
Cooling and Re-Entry
After the lethal temperature hold period, heating equipment is removed and the area is cooled. Re-entry is typically authorized the same day — usually within 6–8 hours of treatment start.
Advantages of Heat Treatment
- Zero chemicals — no Vikane gas, no pesticides, no residue
- All life stages — kills eggs (which some chemicals don't penetrate)
- Same-day re-entry — typically 6–8 hours vs. 2–4 days for fumigation
- No food/medication preparation — nothing to bag or remove
- Great for chemically sensitive individuals — asthma, allergies, chemical sensitivities
- Works through paint and finishes — no drilling or surface preparation needed
Limitations of Heat Treatment
- Cannot treat the entire structure economically — heat treatment is best for individual rooms, specific areas, or targeted sections
- Heat-sensitive items must be protected or removed — vinyl records, wine, some electronics
- Does not provide residual prevention — no lasting protection against future infestations
- Not suitable for subterranean termites — only effective for drywood species above ground
- Higher cost per square foot than chemical spot treatments
Heat Treatment vs. Fumigation vs. Orange Oil
| Factor | Heat Treatment | Fumigation | Orange Oil |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical-free | ✓ Yes | No (Vikane) | ✓ Natural |
| Whole-structure | Room-level | ✓ Yes | No |
| Same-day re-entry | ✓ Yes | No (2–4 days) | ✓ Yes |
| Eggs killed | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Partial |
| Inaccessible areas | Limited | ✓ Yes | No |
Is Heat Treatment Right for You?
Heat treatment is the ideal choice if you:
- Have a localized drywood termite infestation in a specific room or area
- Are chemically sensitive or prefer zero-chemical solutions
- Need same-day re-entry without the preparation requirements of fumigation
- Want treatment for high-value furniture or antiques that can't be drilled
Schedule a free inspection and we'll give you an honest recommendation. CA License #PR7791.