What should you do if mice are in the walls of a frame house? - briefly
Seal all gaps and openings in the framing, then place snap traps or bait stations inside the wall cavities and monitor them regularly. After removal, repair damaged insulation and reinforce exterior caulking to prevent future infestations.
What should you do if mice are in the walls of a frame house? - in detail
Mice inside the cavity walls of a timber‑frame home require a systematic approach to eliminate the infestation and prevent recurrence.
First, locate entry points. Inspect the exterior for gaps around windows, doors, utility penetrations, and the foundation. Use a flashlight to examine the interior wall cavities, attic, and crawl spaces for gnaw marks, droppings, and nesting material. Mark each opening with chalk or tape.
Second, seal all identified gaps. Apply steel wool or copper mesh to small cracks, then cover with caulk, expanding foam, or metal flashing. For larger openings, install metal plates or hardware cloth secured with screws. Ensure that vents, soffits, and eaves remain functional while being protected with fine mesh screens.
Third, reduce food sources. Store pantry items in airtight containers, keep pet feed sealed, and clean up crumbs promptly. Remove clutter from basements and attics that could serve as nesting sites.
Fourth, deploy control devices. Place snap traps or electronic traps inside the wall cavities, attic, and near known activity zones. Bait with peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial rodent lure. Check traps daily, dispose of captured mice in sealed bags, and reset as needed. Avoid glue boards, which cause prolonged suffering and are less effective in enclosed spaces.
Fifth, consider baits. If trapping alone does not reduce numbers, use rodenticide blocks or pellets in tamper‑resistant stations placed away from children and pets. Follow label instructions precisely; improper use can lead to secondary poisoning.
Sixth, monitor progress. After a week of active trapping and sealing, re‑inspect walls for fresh droppings or damage. Continue treatment until no new signs appear for at least ten days.
Finally, if the infestation persists or structural damage is evident, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. They can perform wall void inspections, apply targeted baits, and recommend structural repairs to eradicate hidden colonies.
Implementing these steps promptly restores the integrity of a framed residence and minimizes health risks associated with rodent activity.