What should you do with drywall to prevent mice? - briefly
Seal all seams, gaps, and penetrations in the drywall with steel wool, copper mesh, and high‑quality caulk, then reinforce any openings with metal flashing to block rodent entry.
What should you do with drywall to prevent mice? - in detail
To keep rodents out of wall cavities, treat the drywall and surrounding structure as a sealed barrier. Begin by inspecting all exposed edges, seams, and penetrations for gaps larger than ¼ inch. Seal each opening with a durable, rodent‑resistant material such as steel‑wool, copper mesh, or high‑grade silicone caulk. For joints between drywall sheets, apply a continuous bead of acrylic sealant and embed a thin strip of metal flashing over the joint before the sealant cures, creating a physical block that mice cannot chew through.
Next, reinforce any openings created for utilities. When installing pipes, wiring, or ducts, wrap them in metal conduit or use expandable foam insulation that contains a steel mesh core. After the conduit is in place, cover the surrounding drywall with a layer of steel‑reinforced mesh tape and joint compound, then sand smooth. This dual‑layer approach prevents gnawing at the edge of the opening.
For existing gaps in finished walls, cut a narrow slot in the drywall, insert a piece of copper mesh cut to fit the opening, and secure it with construction adhesive. Finish the repair with joint compound and paint to maintain the wall’s appearance while preserving the barrier.
Finally, apply a perimeter treatment to deter entry. Use a rodent‑repellent spray formulated for interior use on the exterior surface of the drywall near the floor line. Reapply according to the manufacturer’s schedule, and inspect the barrier quarterly, repairing any new cracks or holes promptly.
Key actions
- Inspect and seal all seams, edges, and penetrations larger than ¼ in.
- Use steel‑wool, copper mesh, or metal flashing for durable sealing.
- Wrap utility penetrations in metal conduit or mesh‑filled foam.
- Reinforce repaired openings with mesh tape and joint compound.
- Apply interior‑safe rodent repellent along the lower wall line.
- Conduct quarterly inspections and promptly repair any damage.