How can the interior walls of a wooden house be lined to prevent mice? - briefly
Seal all openings with steel wool or copper mesh, then attach a rodent‑proof sheathing such as cement board or metal panels before installing drywall; finish seams with a durable, rodent‑resistant caulk. This creates a continuous barrier that blocks entry and nesting.
How can the interior walls of a wooden house be lined to prevent mice? - in detail
A practical approach to protecting interior partitions of a timber‑framed dwelling from rodent intrusion involves selecting appropriate barrier materials, preparing the substrate, and sealing all potential entry points.
Choose a material that rodents cannot gnaw through. Common options include:
- 0.5 mm galvanized steel mesh or stainless‑steel lath, cut to size and fastened with corrosion‑resistant screws.
- Rigid fiberglass board with a smooth surface, installed on top of the mesh to provide a finished interior.
- High‑density mineral wool or rock wool, placed behind the metal barrier for added insulation and sound dampening.
Prepare the wall cavity before installation. Remove any existing insulation that shows signs of damage or pest activity. Clean the studs and fill large gaps with expanding polyurethane foam, then trim excess once cured. Install the metal mesh directly against the studs, overlapping seams by at least 2 inches and securing each overlap with staples or screws. Apply a continuous bead of silicone or acrylic sealant along the perimeter of the mesh where it meets the floor, ceiling, and adjoining walls.
After the barrier is in place, attach the finishing board. Use nails or screws spaced no more than 8 inches apart to prevent movement that could create new voids. Tape and mud all joints, then sand smooth before painting or applying wallpaper. Ensure that all penetrations for electrical boxes, plumbing, and HVAC ducts are sealed with metal grommets or caulking, and fit conduit sleeves that extend beyond the interior surface.
Finally, conduct a thorough inspection. Verify that no gaps exceed 1/4 inches, that all seams are overlapped and fastened, and that the exterior of the house is similarly protected with flashing and a continuous pest‑proof barrier. Regular maintenance—checking for signs of gnawing, repairing cracked sealant, and replacing damaged mesh—will sustain the effectiveness of the wall lining over time.