What should I fill the gap between walls with to prevent mice from moving in? - briefly
Use steel wool («steel wool») pressed into the opening and cover it with a high‑strength silicone or acrylic caulk to block gnawing and seal residual cracks. Inspect the sealed area periodically and reapply material if wear appears.
What should I fill the gap between walls with to prevent mice from moving in? - in detail
To stop rodents from entering through wall openings, choose materials that combine durability, tight sealing, and resistance to chewing.
- Steel wool, tightly packed, creates a barrier that mice cannot gnaw through. Secure with caulking to prevent displacement.
- Copper‑ or aluminum‑mesh (hardware cloth) with openings no larger than ¼ inch provides a long‑lasting physical block. Attach to the gap with screws or construction adhesive.
- Expanding polyurethane foam, applied after inserting a thin strip of steel wool, expands to fill irregular spaces while the foam cures into a solid seal. Trim excess once set.
- Silicone or acrylic caulk, applied over the edges of the above barriers, seals any remaining micro‑cracks and prevents moisture infiltration.
- Cement or mortar, used for larger gaps in masonry, creates a permanent, rodent‑proof fill. Smooth the surface to maintain structural integrity.
Installation steps:
- Identify all visible gaps, including those around pipes, vents, and electrical conduits.
- Clean the area of dust and debris to ensure adhesion.
- Insert steel wool or mesh into the opening, compressing it firmly.
- Apply expanding foam over the inserted material, allowing it to expand fully.
- Once the foam hardens, trim the excess and coat the joint with caulk.
- For gaps in brick or concrete, remove loose material, then fill with mortar, smoothing the surface.
Regular inspection of sealed areas, especially after seasonal temperature changes, helps maintain effectiveness. Replace any compromised sections promptly to sustain a rodent‑free environment.