Does heat treatment damage walls?

Does the heat treatment ruin the walls?

Editor Response

Generally, no. Professional heat treatments heat rooms to roughly 120°F to 140°F and hold the temperature just long enough for bed bugs and eggs in hiding spots to die. Extension experts describe heat treatment as killing bed bugs without damaging the home or household items, and walls and paint aren't among the things companies ask you to protect. What can be damaged are heat-sensitive belongings, such as medicines, aerosol cans, candles, crayons and other wax items, cosmetics, plants, musical instruments, oil paintings and old photographs. A good company will give you a preparation list of what to remove or protect before treatment, and will use temperature sensors so the room gets hot enough without overheating, and protect fire sprinkler heads. Ask the company directly about anything you're worried about before they start.