What should I do if mice are in the subfloor? - briefly
«Identify and seal all openings in the subfloor, foundation, and surrounding walls with steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh». «Set snap or live‑catch traps, and if activity continues, engage a licensed pest‑control professional».
What should I do if mice are in the subfloor? - in detail
Mice residing beneath the floorboards create structural and health risks that require immediate action.
First, locate all possible entry points. Examine the foundation, joist cavities, utility penetrations, and gaps around vents. Seal openings with steel wool, copper mesh, or cement‑based caulk, because rodents can squeeze through openings as small as a quarter‑inch.
Second, establish a trapping strategy. Deploy snap traps or electronic traps along walls, behind appliances, and near identified pathways. Position bait—such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial rodent lure—on the trigger mechanism. Replace traps daily, disposing of captured rodents in sealed bags.
Third, consider bait stations for populations that persist despite trapping. Use enclosed, tamper‑resistant stations containing anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides, following label instructions and local regulations. Ensure stations are inaccessible to children and non‑target animals.
Fourth, improve sanitation to reduce attractants. Remove food sources by storing pantry items in airtight containers, cleaning crumbs from the kitchen, and securing garbage in sealed bins. Repair water leaks, as moisture attracts rodents.
Fifth, monitor progress. Install motion‑activated cameras or infrared sensors in the subfloor area to verify activity levels. Continue inspections for at least two weeks after the last sighting to confirm eradication.
Sixth, engage a licensed pest‑control professional if infestations remain or if structural damage is suspected. Experts can perform comprehensive assessments, apply specialized baits, and advise on long‑term exclusion measures.
Finally, maintain preventive measures. Conduct periodic inspections of the building envelope, keep vegetation trimmed away from the foundation, and schedule regular pest‑management reviews to avoid future incursions.