What should I do if mice are in drywall? - briefly
Inspect the walls for gaps or openings, seal them with steel wool and caulk, place snap traps or live‑catch devices near activity sites, and, if the infestation persists, contact a licensed pest‑control professional.
What should I do if mice are in drywall? - in detail
If you discover that rodents have made their way into the interior wall spaces, act promptly to prevent damage, disease, and further infestation.
First, confirm the presence. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, rustling sounds, or visible tracks near baseboards, vents, and ceilings. Use a flashlight to inspect any accessible openings, such as gaps around pipes, electrical outlets, or the top of wall cavities.
Next, locate entry points. Common sources include:
- Gaps around utility penetrations (plumbing, wiring, HVAC)
- Unsealed cracks in the foundation or exterior sheathing
- Openings around doors, windows, and vents
- Unfinished attic or crawl‑space access
Seal each opening after confirming it is clear of active rodents. Use steel wool or copper mesh backed with expanding foam, metal flashing, or cement‑based sealant for durable closure. Do not block any ventilation required for the building’s code compliance.
Set traps or bait stations within the wall cavity. Preferred methods:
- Snap traps placed against the interior wall surface where activity is observed.
- Live‑capture traps if humane removal is required, positioned in concealed locations to avoid accidental contact.
- Rodenticide bait stations, only if local regulations permit and with strict containment to prevent secondary poisoning.
Check traps daily. Remove captured animals, disinfect the area with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water), and dispose of waste according to local health guidelines.
After elimination, repair structural damage. Remove contaminated insulation, replace with new material, and treat any gnawed wood with a borate wood preservative. Clean drywall surfaces with a detergent solution, then apply a mold‑inhibiting primer before repainting.
Implement preventive measures:
- Install metal mesh or steel wool around all remaining penetrations.
- Maintain a clear perimeter free of vegetation, debris, and food sources.
- Ensure exterior drainage directs water away from the foundation.
- Schedule periodic inspections of roof, attic, and crawl‑space for new gaps.
If the infestation is extensive, the damage exceeds superficial repair, or you lack confidence in sealing and trapping, engage a licensed pest‑control professional. They can perform a thorough exclusion, verify compliance with building codes, and provide a guarantee for future protection.