How can I drive mice out of the walls of a house? - briefly
Seal all cracks and gaps leading to the interior, then place snap or live traps with appropriate bait inside the wall cavities and check them regularly. After removal, repair openings and, if desired, use ultrasonic repellents to discourage new mice from entering.
How can I drive mice out of the walls of a house? - in detail
Mice residing in wall cavities create structural damage, fire‑hazard risks, and health concerns. Effective removal requires a systematic approach that combines inspection, exclusion, trapping, and sanitation.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Locate entry points by examining exterior siding, foundation cracks, utility penetrations, and gaps around doors and windows. Inside, listen for scurrying sounds, look for droppings, gnaw marks, and shredded insulation. Mark each suspected opening.
Seal all identified gaps before setting traps. Use steel wool, copper mesh, or silicone caulk for small cracks; apply hardware cloth or metal flashing for larger openings. Ensure seals are tight, as mice can squeeze through openings as small as a quarter‑inch.
Deploy traps strategically. Place snap traps or electronic lethal devices 1–2 feet from each entry point, positioned perpendicular to walls where rodents travel. Use bait such as peanut butter, sunflower seed, or bits of cheese. Check traps daily; remove captured mice promptly and reset traps until no new activity is observed for at least three consecutive nights.
If live capture is preferred, use multi‑catch live traps. Release captured mice at least two miles away from the property, following local wildlife regulations.
After confirming elimination, reinforce exclusion measures. Install door sweeps, repair damaged vents, and maintain a clear perimeter—remove debris, trim vegetation, and store firewood away from the foundation. Reduce attractants by storing food in sealed containers and regularly cleaning crumbs and spills.
Finally, sanitize the affected area. Wear disposable gloves and a mask, dispose of contaminated insulation, and clean surfaces with a disinfectant solution. Consider applying a rodent‑repellent spray containing peppermint oil or predator urine in non‑food‑contact zones to deter future incursions.
A disciplined sequence of inspection, sealing, trapping, and sanitation will eradicate mice from wall spaces and prevent re‑infestation.