How can you seal mouse burrows in a house? - briefly
Locate all openings such as gaps behind appliances, baseboard cracks, and utility penetrations; then fill each with steel wool followed by expanding polyurethane caulk and reinforce with metal mesh or cement to block re‑entry. This two‑step sealing method effectively prevents mice from re‑establishing burrows inside the residence.
How can you seal mouse burrows in a house? - in detail
Inspect all potential entry locations. Look for gnaw marks, droppings, and visible tunnels along walls, baseboards, and utility penetrations. Document each opening before proceeding.
Clean each opening thoroughly. Remove debris, nesting material, and any loose insulation. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture allergens and particles.
Select appropriate sealing material. For small cracks, apply steel wool followed by expanding polyurethane foam. For larger gaps, install metal flashing or hardware cloth (minimum ¼‑inch mesh) and secure with stainless‑steel screws. Avoid using pure silicone or latex caulk, as rodents can chew through these substances.
Apply sealing steps in the following order:
- Insert steel wool tightly into the hole, compressing to eliminate voids.
- Cover the steel wool with a layer of expanding foam, allowing it to cure fully.
- Trim excess foam flush with the surrounding surface.
- For openings larger than ¼ inch, cut a piece of hardware cloth to overlap the gap by at least 1 inch on each side.
- Fasten the metal mesh with corrosion‑resistant screws, ensuring no gaps remain.
- Seal screw heads and mesh edges with a thin bead of polyurethane sealant.
Perform a final inspection after curing. Verify that no visible gaps or chewable material remain. Conduct routine maintenance checks quarterly, focusing on areas near pipes, vents, and exterior doors.
Implement preventive measures. Install door sweeps, repair damaged siding, and maintain landscaping away from the foundation. Keep food storage sealed and eliminate clutter that could provide shelter. These actions reduce the likelihood of new burrows forming.