How can I get rid of mice behind drywall in a private house? - briefly
Seal all gaps and openings in the walls, floor and foundation, then place snap traps or bait stations inside the cavity and monitor them daily; if the infestation persists, enlist a licensed pest‑control service to locate hidden nests and apply targeted rodenticide.
How can I get rid of mice behind drywall in a private house? - in detail
Eliminate rodents concealed within wall cavities of a residential building by following a systematic approach. Begin with thorough inspection: use a flashlight and inspection camera to locate gnaw marks, droppings, or nesting material behind the plaster. Identify all possible entry points, such as gaps around electrical outlets, plumbing penetrations, and seams where the drywall meets the floor or ceiling.
Seal openings before deploying control measures. Apply steel wool combined with expanding polyurethane foam or use copper mesh to block holes larger than ¼ inch. Install metal flashing around utility lines and caulk cracks with a silicone-based sealant that remains flexible.
Deploy trapping and baiting devices inside the concealed spaces:
- Snap traps positioned flush against the drywall, baited with peanut butter or dried fruit.
- Live‑capture traps for humane removal, placed where activity is evident.
- Bait stations containing anticoagulant rodenticides, sealed according to local regulations and placed out of reach of children and pets.
Monitor traps daily, dispose of carcasses according to health‑department guidelines, and reset devices until no new captures occur for at least three consecutive days.
Consider supplementary deterrents: ultrasonic emitters mounted in the affected rooms, or natural repellents such as peppermint oil applied to cotton balls and placed near suspected routes. These methods may reduce activity but should not replace mechanical control.
If infestation persists after these steps, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. Experts can perform wall cavity excavation, apply targeted baits, and provide a comprehensive exclusion plan to prevent re‑entry.
Finally, maintain prevention by regularly inspecting the exterior for vegetation or debris contacting the foundation, trimming overhanging branches, and ensuring that doors and windows close tightly. Consistent exclusion and monitoring will keep the interior free of rodent intrusion.