How do mice get into a garage? - briefly
Mice enter garages through small openings such as gaps around doors, vents, utility lines, and cracks in foundations, often attracted by stored food or shelter. They exploit any gap larger than a quarter‑inch, using their ability to squeeze through tight spaces.
How do mice get into a garage? - in detail
Rodents exploit any opening larger than a quarter‑inch. Common entry points include:
- Gaps around utility pipes, electrical conduits, and vent ducts.
- Cracks in foundation walls, especially where concrete meets soil.
- Unsealed doors, garage doors, and windows; weather‑stripping that is missing or damaged creates a clear path.
- Holes in siding, soffits, or eaves where insulation has been removed.
- Openings at the bottom of garage door thresholds, often left uncovered for drainage.
Mice are capable of squeezing through spaces as small as 0.5 cm in diameter. Their keen sense of smell guides them to food sources, shelter, and warmth inside the garage. Once inside, they can gnaw on wiring, insulation, and stored items, causing structural damage and fire hazards.
Behavioral factors that increase intrusion risk:
- Seasonal pressure: colder months drive mice to seek heated environments.
- Food availability: pet food, birdseed, or discarded waste left in the garage attract foraging rodents.
- Nesting material: piles of cardboard, paper, or fabric provide suitable bedding.
Prevention measures focus on exclusion and sanitation:
- Seal all exterior gaps with steel wool, copper mesh, or silicone‑based caulk; these materials resist gnawing.
- Install a door sweep or brush seal on the garage door threshold.
- Repair cracked foundation walls and replace damaged siding.
- Store food in airtight containers and keep the floor clear of debris.
- Maintain vegetation at least two feet away from the building to reduce cover for rodents.
Regular inspection—monthly during high‑risk periods—identifies new openings before mice can exploit them. Prompt repair of discovered gaps, combined with diligent housekeeping, dramatically reduces the likelihood of rodent entry into a garage.