Mice are under the floor; how can I drive them out? - briefly
Seal all openings beneath the flooring with steel wool and caulk, then place snap traps or bait stations along walls and known pathways; optionally, use ultrasonic repellents to discourage activity. Maintain a clean, food‑free environment to prevent re‑infestation.
Mice are under the floor; how can I drive them out? - in detail
Rodents have established a nest beneath the floorboards, creating health risks and structural damage. Effective removal requires a systematic approach: identification, exclusion, population reduction, and monitoring.
First, locate activity signs—droppings, gnaw marks, urine stains, or audible scurrying. Use a flashlight to inspect the cavity from any accessible vent or access panel. Document entry points such as gaps around pipes, cracks in joists, or openings at the perimeter of the room.
Second, seal all discovered openings. Apply steel wool or copper mesh to small gaps, then cover with expanding polyurethane foam or cement. For larger voids, install sheet metal flashing or metal flashing strips. Ensure doors and windows have tight weatherstripping to prevent re‑entry.
Third, implement control measures within the confined space:
- Snap traps: place at least three traps per identified pathway, positioned perpendicular to the wall with the trigger end facing the wall. Use fresh peanut butter or shredded cheese as bait.
- Live‑catch traps: set in high‑traffic zones, check every 12 hours, and release captured animals at least 2 km from the residence.
- Bait stations: use tamper‑proof boxes containing anticoagulant pellets; position according to local regulations and keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Electronic repellents: insert ultrasonic devices in the cavity; effectiveness varies, so combine with mechanical traps.
Fourth, reduce attractants. Store food in sealed containers, eliminate standing water, and remove clutter that offers shelter. Clean the area thoroughly with a disinfectant to erase scent trails that encourage reinfestation.
Fifth, maintain a monitoring schedule. Inspect traps weekly, re‑seal any new openings, and record activity levels. If captures cease but signs persist, consider professional pest‑control services that can apply rodenticides or conduct structural modifications inaccessible to homeowners.
By following inspection, exclusion, targeted trapping, habitat modification, and ongoing surveillance, the rodent population under the floor can be eliminated and future incursions prevented.