What should be used to treat the exterior of a house against mice? - briefly
Apply a continuous barrier of ½‑inch hardware cloth or heavy‑gauge steel wool around foundations, vents, and any openings, then seal remaining gaps with rodent‑resistant caulk. Complement the barrier with bait stations or snap traps positioned near likely entry points.
What should be used to treat the exterior of a house against mice? - in detail
A comprehensive exterior rodent‑proofing program begins with eliminating all potential entry points. Inspect the foundation, eaves, soffits, vent covers, and utility penetrations. Apply a durable sealant—such as silicone or polyurethane caulk—to cracks larger than ¼ inch. For gaps around pipes, wires, or vents, insert steel wool, then reinforce with expanding foam or metal mesh (hardware cloth, ¼‑inch gauge). Secure the mesh with stainless‑steel screws to prevent corrosion.
Replace any damaged siding, soffit panels, or flashing. Use pressure‑treated lumber or fiber‑cement boards, which resist gnawing. Where wooden trim meets the foundation, fit a metal flashing strip and seal the joint. Concrete steps, walkways, and crawl‑space walls should be smooth; grind rough edges that could harbor nesting material.
Maintain a clear perimeter to deter access:
- Trim vegetation at least 2 feet from the building envelope.
- Remove debris, wood piles, and compost bins from the immediate yard.
- Store firewood on a raised platform, covered with a metal roof.
Deploy physical barriers and traps strategically:
- Install snap‑traps or electronic traps along walls, under eaves, and near known runways.
- Place bait stations only in tamper‑proof containers, mounted on the exterior, and comply with local regulations.
- Consider a continuous strip of hardware cloth (½‑inch mesh) around the base of the house, extending 12 inches upward and 12 inches outward, to block climbing.
Chemical deterrents may supplement mechanical measures. Apply a rodent‑repellent granule or spray formulated for outdoor use to the foundation perimeter, following label directions. Reapply after heavy rain or seasonal cleaning.
Regular maintenance is essential. Conduct quarterly inspections, reseal any new cracks, replace worn mesh, and refresh repellents. For persistent infestations, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional who can conduct a thorough assessment, apply targeted baiting programs, and advise on structural upgrades.