How to seal holes made by mice in an apartment

Understanding the Mouse Problem

Why Mice Are a Concern in Apartments

Health Risks

Mice create openings in walls, floors, and cabinets that allow droppings, urine, and saliva to infiltrate living spaces. These contaminants contain pathogens such as Hantavirus, Salmonella, and Leptospira, which can cause severe respiratory, gastrointestinal, and renal illnesses. Direct contact with contaminated surfaces or inhalation of aerosolized particles during cleaning or renovation increases infection risk.

Unsealed gaps also enable allergens from mouse hair and dander to circulate, aggravating asthma and triggering allergic reactions. Persistent exposure may lead to chronic inflammation of the nasal passages and lungs, reducing overall respiratory function. Additionally, rodents often transport fleas and mites, expanding the vector‑borne disease threat within the apartment.

Effective remediation requires prompt closure of all openings and thorough disinfection of affected areas. Recommended actions include:

Removing visible debris and droppings with disposable gloves and a HEPA‑rated vacuum.
Applying an EPA‑approved disinfectant to surfaces for the contact time specified on the label.
Sealing holes using steel wool, copper mesh, or expanding foam, followed by plaster or drywall to create a durable barrier.
Conducting a final inspection to verify that no gaps remain, thereby minimizing ongoing exposure to hazardous microorganisms.

Structural Damage

Mice gnawing through walls, floors, or ceilings creates openings that compromise the integrity of building components. The resulting structural damage may include weakened studs, cracked drywall, and exposed insulation, which can lead to moisture intrusion and reduced load‑bearing capacity.

First, evaluate the extent of the damage. Inspect surrounding framing for splintered or chewed wood, check drywall for cracks or missing sections, and verify that insulation remains intact. Use a flashlight to reveal hidden gaps behind baseboards and cabinets. If any element shows signs of rot, mold, or loss of strength, replace it rather than attempting a superficial fix.

Repair procedures:

Remove all compromised material: cut out damaged drywall, pull out chewed studs, and discard contaminated insulation.
Install new framing pieces of equal size and grade, securing them with appropriate fasteners.
Fit fresh drywall patches, tapering edges to blend with existing surfaces.
Re‑insulate the cavity with unfaced or fire‑rated material, ensuring a tight fit to prevent future entry points.
Apply a sealant specifically designed for pest control, covering the repaired area and extending at least two inches beyond the perimeter of the patch.

After restoration, reinforce vulnerable zones. Add steel plates or wood brackets to high‑stress joints, and consider installing metal mesh or hardware cloth behind wall cavities to deter further gnawing. Regularly inspect repaired sections for signs of new activity, and address any minor chew marks promptly to avoid escalation.

By systematically assessing damage, replacing weakened components, and applying durable sealing methods, the structural soundness of the apartment can be restored and maintained despite mouse activity.

Unwanted Guests

Rodents infiltrate apartments by gnawing openings that provide access to food, water, and shelter. These openings often appear as small gaps around pipes, vents, baseboards, and walls, and they compromise both hygiene and structural integrity.

Identify all potential entry points by inspecting the interior and exterior of the unit. Look for fresh gnaw marks, shredded insulation, and droppings. Prioritize gaps larger than a quarter inch, as they accommodate most common household rodents.

Seal each opening using the following procedure:

Clean the area to remove debris, dust, and any remaining nesting material.
Apply a steel‑wool or copper‑mesh filler to the gap; these materials resist chewing.
Cover the filler with a durable sealant such as expanding polyurethane foam or cement‑based mortar.
Smooth the sealant, ensuring it adheres firmly to surrounding surfaces.
Allow the sealant to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before restoring furniture or décor.

After sealing, maintain a rodent‑free environment by storing food in airtight containers, fixing water leaks, and disposing of garbage regularly. Periodic inspections confirm the integrity of repairs and prevent new breaches.

Identifying Mouse Entry Points

Common Locations for Holes

Mice frequently gnaw through materials that provide easy access to interior spaces. The most frequent entry points in a residential flat are:

Gaps around baseboards and floor trim, especially where flooring meets walls.
Openings at the underside of doors, including gaps beneath the threshold.
Holes in wall studs or drywall near cabinets, pantry shelves, or behind appliances.
Unsealed penetrations for plumbing, electrical wiring, and HVAC ducts, particularly where pipes or cables pass through studs.
Cracks or missing sections in exterior siding, brick veneer, or window frames that extend to the interior.
Small openings around vent covers, exhaust fans, and dryer lint traps.

These locations are vulnerable because they involve joints, seams, or utility passages that mice can enlarge with minimal effort. Addressing each spot with appropriate sealants, steel wool, or hardware cloth prevents further intrusion and limits damage to structural components and insulation.

Signs of Mouse Activity

Mice leave distinct evidence that indicates where they have entered and moved within a living space. Recognizing these indicators is essential before addressing structural damage.

Small, dark droppings, typically 3‑5 mm long, found along baseboards, behind appliances, or in cabinets.
Gnawed edges on wood, plastic, or insulation, often irregular and larger than chew marks left by insects.
Grease or smudge marks along walls and floors, created by oily fur rubbing against surfaces.
Nests constructed from shredded paper, fabric, or insulation, usually hidden in concealed areas such as closets, attics, or behind furniture.
Audible scratching or scurrying sounds, especially at night, heard within walls, ceilings, or floor cavities.
Urine stains that may appear as yellowish spots on fabrics, carpet, or hard surfaces, sometimes accompanied by a faint odor.
Visible tracks in dusty or powdered areas, showing four‑toed footprints or tail drag marks.

Identifying these signs pinpoints entry points and pathways, allowing targeted repair of compromised structures and prevention of further infestation.

Tools for Inspection

Before repairing mouse‑created openings, a thorough inspection identifies all entry points and assesses damage. Accurate detection prevents missed gaps that could allow re‑infestation.

Flashlight or headlamp – illuminates dark corners, closets, and behind appliances.
Inspection mirror – reveals holes behind walls, under cabinets, and in tight spaces.
Flexible probe or steel rod – tests for hidden openings by feeling for gaps in drywall or baseboards.
Digital moisture meter – detects water damage that may accompany rodent activity, indicating compromised sealant areas.
Infrared thermometer – spots temperature differentials that suggest concealed voids behind insulation.

Use the flashlight to scan ceilings, floors, and walls, focusing on seams, vent covers, and utility penetrations. Position the inspection mirror at angles where direct sight is impossible, noting any gnaw marks or droppings. Insert the flexible probe gently into suspected seams; resistance indicates solid material, while easy passage reveals a breach. Apply the moisture meter along suspected areas; elevated readings flag dampness that may require additional sealing. Employ the infrared thermometer to compare surface temperatures; cooler spots often correspond to hidden gaps.

Document each finding, marking locations for subsequent sealing. A complete inventory of openings ensures that the repair phase addresses every access point, eliminating the risk of recurring rodent entry.

Preparing for Sealing

Gathering Necessary Materials

Sealants and Fillers

Mice frequently gnaw through walls, baseboards, and insulation, leaving openings that allow entry of pests, drafts, and moisture. Effective repair relies on selecting the right sealant and filler for each material and hole size.

Silicone sealant provides flexible, waterproof coverage for gaps around pipes, window frames, and exterior walls. Acrylic‑latex sealant adheres well to painted surfaces and dries quickly, making it suitable for interior trim and drywall joints. Polyurethane sealant offers strong adhesion to wood, metal, and concrete, resisting shrinkage and cracking under temperature fluctuations. Two‑part epoxy creates a rigid, durable patch for larger breaches in structural elements. Expanding polyurethane foam fills irregular cavities, then hardens to a supportive plug that can be trimmed and covered with a filler.

Spackling paste repairs small drywall holes; it sands smoothly and accepts paint. Wood filler restores gnawed sections of timber, curing hard enough for sanding and staining. Metal putty bonds to steel studs and can be shaped before setting. Joint compound, applied in thin layers, bridges gaps in plaster and provides a seamless finish after sanding.

Repair procedure

Remove debris, loose material, and any remaining gnaw marks.
Measure the opening; classify as narrow (<¼ in), medium (¼–½ in), or large (>½ in).
Choose a sealant that matches the substrate and exposure conditions.
Apply sealant with a caulking gun, pressing it into the gap to eliminate voids.
Allow the sealant to cure according to manufacturer specifications.
For medium and large holes, fill the cured sealant bed with an appropriate filler, shaping it to the surrounding surface.
Sand the dried filler flush with the wall or floor.
Prime and paint to match existing décor, completing the barrier against future rodent intrusion.

Tools for Application

Effective repair of rodent‑created openings in a dwelling requires a specific set of tools. Selecting the appropriate equipment ensures a durable seal and minimizes future intrusion.

Steel wool or copper mesh – fills gaps while deterring chewing.
Expanding polyurethane foam – expands to fill irregular spaces, hardens into a solid barrier.
Mortar or cement mix – provides a permanent seal for larger openings in walls or floors.
Silicone or acrylic caulk – seals seams around trim, baseboards, and small cracks.
Putty knife or caulking gun – applies mortar, foam, or caulk precisely.
Sandpaper or a metal file – smooths edges and prepares surfaces for adhesion.
Protective gloves and safety goggles – protect the user from chemicals and sharp debris.
Utility knife or drywall saw – trims excess material and creates clean openings for repair.

When choosing materials, prioritize durability and resistance to gnawing. Steel wool should be tightly packed, then covered with foam or caulk to prevent mice from pulling it out. For structural cracks, mortar offers the strongest barrier, while silicone remains flexible for joints that may shift slightly. Apply each product according to the manufacturer’s instructions, allowing adequate curing time before repainting or reinstalling fixtures. Proper tool use results in a seal that withstands both time and rodent activity.

Safety Gear

When sealing rodent entry points, personal protection prevents injury and exposure to contaminants. Wear durable, cut‑resistant gloves to avoid punctures from sharp debris and to keep skin from contact with insulation or dust. Use a fit‑tested respirator or N95 mask to filter airborne particles, especially when sanding or applying sealant that releases fumes. Safety goggles or a full‑face shield guard eyes against splinters, dust, and accidental spray. A disposable coverall or long‑sleeved work shirt with reinforced cuffs reduces skin exposure and limits the spread of allergens. Slip‑resistant footwear protects against falls on wet or uneven surfaces.

Key safety items:

Cut‑resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile or leather)
Respiratory protection (N95 or half‑mask respirator with appropriate filter)
Eye protection (polycarbonate goggles or full‑face shield)
Protective clothing (disposable coveralls or sturdy work shirt and pants)
Non‑slip shoes or boots

Before beginning work, inspect each piece for damage, ensure a proper fit, and replace any compromised components. After sealing, dispose of contaminated gear in sealed bags to prevent the spread of rodent residues.

Cleaning and Preparing the Area

Removing Debris

When addressing mouse‑created openings, the first practical step is to clear all material that may compromise the seal. Debris such as gnawed insulation, shredded paper, wood shavings, and droppings must be removed completely before any patching material is applied.

Begin by wearing disposable gloves and a dust mask. Use a shop‑vac or a stiff brush to collect loose fragments from the interior and exterior of the hole. For stubborn buildup, a putty knife can scrape away compacted material without enlarging the opening. Dispose of the collected waste in a sealed bag to prevent re‑infestation.

After the surface is free of foreign matter, wipe the area with a mild detergent solution or an alcohol‑based cleaner. Allow the surface to dry fully; moisture trapped under sealant can cause adhesion failure.

Key actions:

Protect yourself with gloves and mask.
Vacuum or brush out loose debris.
Scrape compacted residue with a putty knife.
Bag and discard waste securely.
Clean the perimeter with detergent or alcohol.
Let the area dry completely before sealing.

Completing these steps creates a clean substrate, ensuring that the subsequent sealing material adheres securely and provides a durable barrier against further rodent entry.

Disinfecting the Surface

Before applying any filler material, clean the opening thoroughly to eliminate pathogens and prevent future infestations. Use a disposable cloth or paper towel to remove loose debris, then apply a disinfectant that is effective against bacteria, viruses, and rodent‑borne germs. Follow the product’s label for contact time; typically, a two‑minute dwell ensures microbial reduction.

Steps for proper surface disinfection:

Wear disposable gloves and, if ventilation is limited, a mask to protect against aerosolized chemicals.
Spray the disinfectant evenly over the hole and surrounding area, ensuring full coverage of all exposed wood, plaster, or drywall.
Allow the solution to remain wet for the recommended period; do not wipe it off prematurely.
After the dwell time, use a clean, dry cloth to remove excess liquid, preventing moisture damage to the substrate.
Dispose of all used materials in a sealed bag to avoid cross‑contamination.

Selecting the right disinfectant matters. Choose an EPA‑registered product labeled for use on indoor surfaces and effective against Salmonella, E. coli, and hantavirus. Avoid bleach solutions on porous materials unless fully sealed afterward, as they can cause discoloration and weaken the substrate.

Once the surface is dry, proceed with the chosen sealing method—such as steel wool, caulk, or expanding foam—confident that the area is free from harmful microorganisms. This preparation step reduces health risks and improves adhesion of the repair material.

Sealing the Holes

Choosing the Right Sealing Method

Small Holes and Cracks

Small holes and cracks left by rodents provide entry points for pests, drafts, and moisture. Identify each opening by inspecting baseboards, walls, and cabinetry. Use a flashlight to reveal gaps as narrow as a pencil tip.

Clean the area with a vacuum or brush to remove debris, droppings, and loose material.
Apply a coat of primer or degreaser if the surface is painted or oily; allow it to dry completely.
Choose a sealant appropriate for the material: acrylic latex caulk for drywall and wood, polyurethane sealant for concrete, or expanding foam for gaps larger than ¼ inch.
Fill the hole with the sealant, pushing the material deep enough to eliminate voids. Smooth the surface with a putty knife or gloved finger.
Allow the sealant to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then sand any excess and repaint if necessary.

Regularly monitor repaired spots for new activity; reseal promptly to maintain structural integrity and prevent further infestation.

Larger Gaps and Openings

Mice often create openings larger than the initial gnaw marks, especially around utility lines, pipe penetrations, and structural joints. These gaps provide unrestricted access to food sources and nesting material, increasing the risk of infestation and structural damage.

Identify all sizeable openings by inspecting:

Spaces around electrical wiring and conduit (minimum ¼ in.).
Gaps surrounding plumbing stacks and drain lines.
Cracks in foundation walls, sill plates, and floor joists.
Openings behind appliances, such as refrigerators and dishwashers.

Seal each gap with materials that resist rodent chewing and accommodate movement:

Metal flashing or steel wool – Pack steel wool tightly into the opening, then cover with copper mesh or sheet metal to prevent removal.
Heavy‑duty expanding foam – Use rodent‑resistant foam, apply in layers, and trim excess once cured; reinforce with a metal plate if the gap exceeds ½ in.
Concrete or mortar – For foundation cracks, clean the area, apply bonding agent, then fill with hydraulic cement that expands as it sets.
Silicone or polyurethane caulk – Apply to small seams around window frames and baseboards; smooth to ensure a complete seal.

After sealing, verify integrity by conducting a light test: shine a flashlight through the repaired area; any visible light indicates an incomplete closure. Re‑apply the chosen material until no light passes.

Maintain the barrier by regularly checking high‑traffic zones, especially after seasonal temperature changes that may cause material contraction. Prompt repair of new gaps prevents re‑entry and preserves the apartment’s structural integrity.

Materials to Avoid

When repairing rodent entry points in a residential unit, choosing inappropriate substances can compromise durability, safety, and effectiveness. Certain products react poorly to the conditions typical of apartment walls and floors, allowing mice to re‑enter or creating health hazards.

Latex or acrylic caulks – lack rigidity, shrink after curing, and can be gnawed through easily.
Wood filler or putty – soft texture, insufficient adhesion to plaster or drywall, and attracts pests due to organic composition.
Foam sealants (spray‑foam) – expands unevenly, may not fill narrow gaps completely, and can emit volatile compounds that irritate occupants.
Petroleum‑based adhesives – emit strong fumes, pose fire risk, and degrade when exposed to moisture.
Duct tape or fabric‑based tapes – lose adhesion over time, peel under temperature fluctuations, and provide a temporary barrier at best.

Opt for rigid, non‑porous materials such as metal mesh, cement‑based mortars, or high‑strength epoxy. These alternatives resist chewing, maintain structural integrity, and comply with indoor safety standards. Selecting the correct product eliminates the need for repeated repairs and ensures a long‑lasting seal against rodent intrusion.

Step-by-Step Sealing Process

Applying Sealant

Applying sealant provides a durable barrier against rodent re‑entry.

Select a product that resists chewing and adheres to the surrounding material. Polyurethane‑based sealants, silicone‑based caulks, and expanding foam formulated for pest control are suitable choices. Verify compatibility with wall composition—drywall, plaster, or wood—before purchase.

Prepare the opening by removing loose debris, gnawed material, and any residual insulation. Clean the surface with a brush or vacuum to eliminate dust that could compromise adhesion. If the gap exceeds ¼ inch, insert a backing material such as steel wool or mesh to discourage future gnawing.

Apply the sealant according to the manufacturer’s instructions:

Cut the nozzle tip to the desired flow size.
Load the cartridge into a caulking gun or foam dispenser.
Deposit a continuous bead that fills the gap, overlapping the edges by at least ½ inch.
Smooth the bead with a putty knife or gloved finger to ensure full contact and eliminate air pockets.
Allow the sealant to cure for the specified period—typically 24 hours for polyurethane, 4–6 hours for silicone, and 1 hour for expanding foam.

Inspect the repaired area after curing. Verify that the sealant remains intact, without cracks or gaps. If imperfections appear, reapply a thin layer to reinforce the seal.

Maintain the seal by periodically checking for signs of wear, especially in high‑traffic or moisture‑prone zones. Promptly address any deterioration to preserve the integrity of the barrier.

Reinforcing Larger Holes

When a mouse creates an opening larger than a quarter‑inch, simple caulk will not hold. Reinforcement must combine a durable filler with a barrier that resists gnawing.

Begin by clearing debris from the hole. Remove any loose material, then trim the opening to a regular shape if possible. A clean, defined edge allows the repair material to adhere properly.

Select a two‑layer system:

First layer – gnaw‑resistant barrier. Insert steel wool, copper mesh, or a combination of both into the cavity. Press firmly so the material fills the gap and contacts the surrounding wall or floor.
Second layer – structural filler. Apply a high‑quality, fast‑curing epoxy paste, polyurethane foam, or joint compound over the barrier. Spread the filler flush with the surrounding surface, ensuring no air pockets remain.

After the filler sets, sand the area smooth. If the repaired spot is on a painted wall, prime and repaint to match the existing finish.

For holes extending through studs or joists, reinforce the opening with a metal plate. Cut a piece of sheet metal slightly larger than the hole, position it over the gap, and secure it with screws before applying the filler layers described above.

Regular inspection of repaired sites will reveal any new gnawing attempts early, allowing prompt reinforcement before damage spreads.

Finishing Touches

After the repair material has cured, sand the patched area until it lies flush with the surrounding wall or floor. Use fine‑grain sandpaper and a light, circular motion to avoid creating low spots.

Apply a thin layer of joint compound or spackling paste over the sanded surface. Spread the filler evenly with a putty knife, feathering the edges to blend with the existing texture. Allow the layer to dry completely before proceeding.

Prime the repaired spot with a coat of interior primer that matches the wall’s finish. Primer seals the filler, prevents absorption differences, and creates a uniform base for paint or wallpaper.

Finish with the final coating—paint, wallpaper, or decorative paneling—using the same technique applied to the rest of the room. Match color, sheen, and pattern precisely to eliminate visual contrast.

Inspect the completed work:

Run a fingertip over the surface to detect unevenness.
Shine a flashlight at an angle to reveal any remaining cracks.
Verify that no gaps remain around baseboards, trim, or adjoining walls.

If imperfections appear, repeat sanding, filler, and finishing steps until the patch is indistinguishable from the surrounding area. This final polishing ensures durability and restores the apartment’s aesthetic integrity.

Post-Sealing Measures

Monitoring for Re-entry

Inspecting Sealed Areas

Inspecting the areas that have been sealed against rodent entry is essential to confirm that the repair will remain effective.

Begin with a visual sweep. Look for cracks, gaps, or peeling material around the sealed spot. Verify that the sealant adheres tightly to the surrounding surface and that no visible holes or tears exist. Check adjacent walls, baseboards, and flooring for signs of new damage that may indicate unfinished work.

Apply gentle pressure with a fingertip or a thin probe along the perimeter of each seal. A solid, non‑compressible feel indicates proper coverage; any softness or give suggests incomplete filling or material failure.

Use a moisture meter or a handheld infrared thermometer to detect hidden leaks. Elevated moisture readings around the seal often precede mold growth or sealant degradation, both of which can attract rodents back to the site.

Record findings in a simple log: date, location, inspection outcome, and any corrective action taken. Schedule repeat checks at regular intervals—weekly for the first month, then monthly for the next six months—to catch early signs of wear before they become entry points again.

Setting Traps if Necessary

When rodent activity persists after sealing entry points, traps become a practical tool to eliminate remaining individuals and prevent re‑infestation. Deploying traps promptly reduces the likelihood of new damage and limits health risks associated with droppings and urine.

Common trap options include:

Snap traps: quick‑acting, reusable, and suitable for areas with limited space.
Live‑catch traps: allow relocation of captured mice, requiring regular checking to avoid stress.
Electronic traps: deliver a lethal shock, minimizing mess and offering consistent performance.
Glue boards: effective for monitoring but less suitable for humane control.

Placement guidelines:

Position traps along walls, behind appliances, and near known gnaw marks, as mice travel close to surfaces.
Set traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger side facing the anticipated travel route.
Use a small amount of attractive bait, such as peanut butter or dried fruit, to increase capture rates.

After setting traps, inspect them daily. Remove captured rodents promptly, disinfect the area, and replace or reset traps as needed. Continue monitoring for several days after the last capture to confirm that the population has been fully addressed. If activity resumes, reassess sealed openings and consider additional trapping cycles.

Preventing Future Infestations

Maintaining Apartment Cleanliness

Maintaining a clean living space directly reduces the likelihood of rodent activity and facilitates effective repair of entry points. Dust, food residues, and clutter provide attractants and concealment for mice, encouraging them to gnaw through walls and create holes. By eliminating these conditions, the sealing process becomes more reliable and long‑lasting.

Key practices for apartment cleanliness that support the repair of rodent openings:

Store all food in airtight containers and dispose of waste in sealed bins.
Sweep, vacuum, and mop floors daily to remove crumbs and debris.
Keep countertops, tables, and shelves free of open dishes and leftovers.
Regularly clean behind appliances, under furniture, and inside cabinets where droppings may accumulate.
Inspect and clean ventilation grilles, dryer vents, and utility openings to prevent hidden nests.
Use a damp cloth to wipe down surfaces after each meal preparation to remove grease and residue.

Implementing these habits creates an environment where mice find no food sources or shelter, allowing sealed gaps to remain intact and preventing future damage.

Storing Food Properly

Proper food storage reduces the likelihood that rodents will be attracted to gaps in walls or floors, thereby supporting any effort to close those openings.

Store dry goods—cereals, grains, pasta, nuts—in airtight containers made of heavy‑wall plastic, glass, or metal. Containers should have sealed lids that snap or screw shut; simple zip‑top bags are insufficient because they can be punctured.

Keep perishable items—cheese, meat, fish, leftovers—in the refrigerator or freezer promptly after purchase. Use containers that are labeled with purchase or expiration dates to prevent forgotten spoilage that can emit odors.

Place all food containers on shelves rather than on the floor. Shelving creates a barrier that makes it harder for small rodents to reach food, and it facilitates cleaning.

Clean spills immediately. Wipe countertops, cabinets, and the floor with a disinfectant solution after each meal preparation. Residual crumbs serve as a strong attractant for mice.

Rotate stock regularly. Use the “first‑in, first‑out” method: move older items to the front of the pantry and place new purchases behind them. This practice prevents stale food from lingering and emitting scents that draw pests.

Maintain a regular inspection schedule. Once a week, examine containers for damage, check seals, and verify that no food is exposed. Promptly replace compromised containers to preserve the integrity of the storage system.

By implementing these storage protocols, the environment becomes less inviting to rodents, making any sealing of structural gaps more durable and effective.

Addressing Potential Lure Factors

To prevent future gnawing, eliminate conditions that attract rodents before repairing damage.

Store dry goods in airtight containers; avoid leaving pet food or crumbs on countertops.
Remove clutter that offers nesting sites, such as piles of cardboard, fabric, or unused items.
Fix water leaks, wipe up spills promptly, and keep sinks and bathtubs dry.
Keep trash bins sealed and dispose of waste regularly.
Maintain a clean kitchen: wipe surfaces after meals, sweep floors, and clean behind appliances.

Addressing these attractants reduces the likelihood that mice will return to newly sealed passages, ensuring lasting effectiveness of the repair work.