What should you do if mice are in walls with foam? - briefly
Seal all entry points, then place snap traps or bait stations inside the wall cavity; if foam blocks access, cut a small opening to reach the rodents. If the problem continues, engage a licensed pest‑control professional.
What should you do if mice are in walls with foam? - in detail
Mice that have taken up residence inside insulated wall cavities create structural damage, fire hazards, and health risks. The first step is to confirm their presence by listening for scratching, noticing droppings, or detecting gnaw marks on foam insulation. Once activity is verified, locate all possible entry points—gaps around pipes, vents, electrical conduits, and any cracks in the building’s exterior.
Seal every opening larger than a quarter inch with steel wool, copper mesh, or expanding polyurethane caulk. Do not rely on the foam itself to block rodents; it can be chewed through, leaving gaps that allow further intrusion. After sealing, install snap traps or electronic kill traps directly against the interior side of the wall, positioning them near the identified pathways. Use bait such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial rodent attractants to increase capture rates.
If live capture is preferred, set humane cage traps and release captured mice at least two miles from the property to prevent re‑entry. Monitor traps daily, removing dead rodents promptly to avoid odor buildup that could attract additional pests.
After eliminating the infestation, replace any damaged foam with a rodent‑resistant insulation material, such as mineral wool or cellulose treated with deterrent additives. Apply a thin layer of rodent‑proof sealant over the foam surface to discourage chewing. Finally, conduct periodic inspections—quarterly at minimum—to ensure no new activity has begun, and maintain a clean environment that eliminates food sources near the building’s perimeter.