Mice are in a wooden house, how can I eliminate them? - briefly
Seal all gaps and cracks in the timber structure—particularly around the foundation, vents, and utility penetrations—using steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing, then place snap traps or electronic bait stations along walls and keep food in rodent‑proof containers, checking and replacing devices regularly.
Mice are in a wooden house, how can I eliminate them? - in detail
Rodent infestation in a timber‑framed dwelling requires a systematic approach that combines exclusion, sanitation, and control measures.
First, identify entry points. Inspect the exterior for gaps larger than ¼ inch around eaves, vents, utility penetrations, and foundation cracks. Seal openings with steel wool, copper mesh, or expanding foam reinforced with metal flashing. Pay special attention to areas where pipes, wires, and cables pass through walls.
Second, eliminate attractants inside the house. Store food in airtight containers, clean crumbs and spills promptly, and keep garbage in sealed bins. Remove clutter that provides nesting material, especially in attics, basements, and storage closets.
Third, deploy trapping devices. Choose from snap traps, electronic traps, or multi‑catch live traps based on personal preference and local regulations. Place traps along walls, behind appliances, and near known activity sites. Bait with high‑protein items such as peanut butter, dried meat, or sunflower seeds. Check traps daily, dispose of captured rodents according to health guidelines, and reset as needed.
Fourth, consider rodenticides only as a last resort. If used, select products approved for indoor use, follow label instructions precisely, and place baits in tamper‑resistant stations inaccessible to children and pets. Monitor for non‑target exposure and replace stations regularly.
Fifth, maintain a preventive routine. Conduct quarterly inspections of the building envelope, repair any new openings immediately, and keep the surrounding landscape trimmed to reduce shelter for wildlife that may harbor rodents. Regularly clean behind appliances and vacuum storage areas to remove droppings and urine residues.
By integrating these steps—sealing access, removing food sources, trapping, cautious use of poisons, and ongoing maintenance—the mouse problem in a wooden structure can be effectively eradicated and prevented from recurring.