What should I do with mice in a stretched ceiling? - briefly
Seal all openings, install traps or bait stations to eliminate the rodents, and then repair the stretched ceiling to prevent future entry.
What should I do with mice in a stretched ceiling? - in detail
Mice that have entered a tension‑mounted ceiling require immediate, systematic action to protect health, prevent damage, and eliminate the infestation.
First, locate activity. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, nesting material, and audible scurrying. Use a flashlight to trace pathways from the attic or roof down through any gaps in drywall, insulation, or ventilation ducts.
Second, block access. Apply steel wool or copper mesh to holes larger than a quarter‑inch, then seal with expanding polyurethane foam or cement. Repair torn insulation and replace damaged sheathing to remove shelter.
Third, reduce attractants. Store food in sealed containers, clean crumbs, and manage waste. Keep humidity below 50 % by using dehumidifiers or improving ventilation, because moisture encourages nesting.
Fourth, capture or kill rodents. Deploy snap traps or electronic lethal devices along identified runways, positioning bait (peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit) at the rear. Set traps perpendicular to walls, with the trigger end facing the wall. Replace bait daily to maintain effectiveness. For live capture, use multi‑catch cages, then release animals at least ten miles from the property, complying with local regulations.
Fifth, monitor and repeat. Check traps every 12‑24 hours. After a week of no captures, re‑inspect for new signs. Continue sealing any fresh openings discovered during follow‑up.
Sixth, consider professional extermination if the population exceeds twenty individuals, if traps prove ineffective, or if structural damage is evident. Certified pest‑control operators can apply rodenticides, conduct thorough inspections, and advise on long‑term exclusion strategies.
Finally, document actions. Record dates of inspection, sealing, and trap placement. Maintain this log for future reference and for any required reporting to landlords or health authorities.
By following these steps—identification, entry blockage, attractant removal, trapping, ongoing monitoring, and professional intervention when needed—mice in a tension‑mounted ceiling can be eradicated and prevented from returning.