How can I prevent mice from being in the cellar? - briefly
Seal all potential entry points with steel mesh, caulk, or concrete around pipes, vents, and cracks. Deploy snap traps or bait stations and keep the cellar clean and dry to deter rodents.
How can I prevent mice from being in the cellar? - in detail
Effective rodent exclusion in a cellar requires a systematic approach that combines inspection, sealing, sanitation, and monitoring.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Identify all potential entry points, including cracks in foundation walls, gaps around utility penetrations, and openings around doors, windows, and vents. Measure each opening; any gap larger than a quarter‑inch permits passage.
Seal identified openings using appropriate materials. Apply steel wool or copper mesh to fill small holes, then cover with cement, expanding foam, or metal flashing for durability. Install door sweeps and weather‑stripping on all access doors. Fit vent covers with fine mesh screens that resist chewing.
Implement sanitation measures to eliminate attractants. Store food, feed, and organic waste in sealed containers made of metal or heavy‑wall plastic. Maintain a dry environment by fixing leaks, improving drainage, and using a dehumidifier to keep humidity below 50 %. Remove clutter and debris that provide shelter.
Introduce physical barriers and traps. Place snap traps or electronic devices along established runways, positioning them perpendicular to walls with bait placed at the rear. Use multiple traps to increase capture probability.
Establish a regular monitoring schedule. Inspect traps weekly, record captures, and re‑evaluate sealed points after each inspection. Replace damaged sealing material promptly.
Consider professional assistance if infestation persists despite these measures. Pest‑control experts can provide rodent‑proofing services, conduct comprehensive surveys, and apply rodenticides in compliance with safety regulations.
Consistent application of inspection, sealing, sanitation, trapping, and monitoring creates an environment that deters rodents and protects the cellar from future incursions.