How can I treat a house for mice? - briefly
Seal all cracks, gaps, and openings; place snap traps, live traps, or bait stations where activity is evident; and store food in sealed containers while managing waste to remove attractants. Conduct regular inspections and promptly eliminate any signs of infestation to maintain long‑term rodent control.
How can I treat a house for mice? - in detail
Treating a home for rodent intrusion requires a systematic approach that combines exclusion, sanitation, monitoring, and, when necessary, lethal control.
Begin by identifying entry points. Inspect the exterior for gaps larger than ¼ inch around foundations, doors, windows, utility penetrations, and vent openings. Seal cracks with steel wool, copper mesh, or cement‑based caulk; install door sweeps and weatherstripping. Install metal flashing around the base of the house and cover any openings in the crawl space with hardware cloth.
Next, eliminate food sources. Store dry goods in airtight containers, keep pet food sealed, and clean up crumbs immediately. Remove standing water by fixing leaks and emptying pet bowls at night. Dispose of garbage in sealed bins and relocate compost away from the structure.
Implement a monitoring system. Place snap traps, live‑catch traps, or electronic devices along walls, behind appliances, and near suspected activity zones. Use bait such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial rodent attractants. Check traps daily, record captures, and reposition devices to cover new hotspots.
If infestation persists, consider a targeted lethal strategy. Deploy snap traps at a density of 1–2 traps per linear foot of wall, positioning them perpendicular to the wall with the trigger end facing the wall. For concealed spaces, use bait stations with anticoagulant rodenticides in accordance with local regulations and safety guidelines; place them out of reach of children and non‑target animals.
Finally, maintain the exclusion barrier. Conduct quarterly inspections of the building envelope, especially after seasonal weather changes. Repair any new gaps promptly, keep vegetation trimmed away from the foundation, and ensure that stored items are off the floor and in sealed containers. Consistent vigilance prevents re‑infestation and protects the property from the damage rodents can cause to wiring, insulation, and stored goods.