Termites are a nationwide threat, resulting in billions of dollars in homeowner damage annually.
However, central Florida’s tropical climate and ubiquitous presence of freshwater resources make the region particularly vulnerable to termites.
According to nationwide Termite Infestation Probability Zones, Florida ranks as a TIP Zone #1, meaning that termite presence in the state is the heaviest compared to other zones across the country.
Particularly, the central regions near cities like Davenport and St. Cloud are especially susceptible to termites due to the high humidity content and the increased likelihood of owning a wood-framed home compared to the coasts.
While emergency termite treatments exist for active infestations, termites tend to return to the same places and can wreak untold havoc. In the meantime, the only true bona fide defense against termites is an active termite bait station designed to thwart any infestation in its tracks.
We’ll discuss the importance of termite bait stations, how they work, and why central Florida residents should invest in active termite defense.
The Facts: Why Are Termites Such a Threat in Central Florida?
The tropical climate of Central Florida, combined with the growing presence of wood-frame homes and thick foliage, makes the region more susceptible to termites than almost every other part of the US. Here are some reasons why termites are such a threat in Central Florida.
- Central Florida lies in a termite TIP Zone #1, meaning that it is more susceptible to termites than other regions in the US.
- Florida is home to some of the most aggressive termite species, including Formosan and Eastern subterranean termites. These species can build massive underground colonies with hundreds of thousands of workers.
- Termites cause over $5 billion in property damage annually across the U.S., and Florida accounts for a disproportionate share of that damage due to its tropical climate.
- Many homeowners don’t realize they have a problem until it’s too late. Plus, termites often return to the same spot that they infested previously, which is why part of termite control involves active monitoring after treatment has ceased.
For these reasons, we strongly urge all Central Florida residents, especially residents with previous termite infestations, to invest in active termite defense systems, due to their heavy presence in and around Orlando.
What Are Termite Bait Stations?
Termite bait stations are the best active defense systems against termites. These stations are small cylindrical tubes that are professionally installed and strategically placed around the perimeter of a building.
Designed to release a slow-acting insect growth regulator (IGR) or a cellulose-based bait laced with termite poison, these stations are effective while being environmentally friendly.
Unlike liquid chemical barriers, which create a physical block around the property, bait stations rely on termite biology and behavior to wipe out the entire colony at its source.
One reason they are so effective is that they will attract any nearby termites and wipe out the entire colony in as little as a few days.
Termite bait stations work best when monitored by a professional pest control company that can make adjustments on the fly and give you accurate data surrounding nearby termite presence.
Benefits of Termite Bait Stations for Central Florida Property Owners
Unlike barrier sprays and other treatments against termites, bait stations can provide long-term defense and are discreet enough that they won’t even be noticed. Here are a few of the many benefits of termite bait stations for Central Florida property owners:
- Continuous Protection: Unlike traditional liquid treatments that can break down due to rain and shifting soil, bait stations are monitored year-round and replaced as needed, giving your property continuous termite defense.
- Environmentally Friendly: Bait stations use a targeted, low-toxicity approach that doesn’t require the widespread application of chemicals. This is especially important in environmentally sensitive areas or properties with children, pets, or gardens.
- Target the Entire Colony: Sprays may kill termites that are visible or near the surface, but bait stations attack the colony at its source, ensuring that the root of the problem is eliminated, not just masked.
- They’re Discreet and Non-Invasive: Bait stations are small and placed underground around your home, making them practically invisible. No drilling, trenching, or large-scale soil disruption is involved.
Do Termite Bait Stations Work for Existing Infestations?
Bait stations are excellent for prevention and elimination, though it may take several weeks to months to fully destroy an active colony. That’s why many pest control providers recommend pairing bait stations with localized spot treatments if an active infestation is discovered inside the structure.
How Much Do Termite Bait Stations Cost in Central Florida?
The cost of installing and maintaining termite bait stations may not be as much as you think, but can vary depending on:
- The size of your property
- The termite risk level in your area
- The number of stations required
- The type of bait system used (e.g., Sentricon®, Trelona®, etc.)
In Central Florida, you can typically expect around $800 for initial installation and only a few hundred dollars in annual monitoring and servicing fees.
However, when compared with the cost of repairing damage from an active infestation or professional removal services, the return on investment is substantial.
Contact Green Behr pest control for the best active defense against termites in Central Florida. Our technicians use the top-of-the-line Trelona® bait station paired with active monitoring that is discreet and guaranteed to eliminate any termite colony that crosses onto your property.
FAQs
How long do termite bait stations take to work?
Most bait stations begin affecting the colony within a few weeks, but complete elimination may take 2–6 months, depending on colony size and environmental factors.
Are bait stations safe for pets and kids?
Yes. Termite bait stations are installed underground and contain low-toxicity ingredients that are not harmful to pets or humans when used correctly.
Do I need to use bait stations year-round?
Yes. In Florida’s warm, humid climate, termites remain active all year. Ongoing monitoring is essential for continuous protection.
Can I install termite bait stations myself?
DIY options exist, but professional installation and monitoring are highly recommended in Central Florida due to the high risk and complexity of effective termite control.
