What to do if mice appear in the garage? - briefly
Identify and block every opening through which rodents can enter, then deploy snap traps or bait stations to eliminate the current infestation. Keep the garage clean, store items in sealed containers, and maintain a regular inspection schedule to prevent future incursions.
What to do if mice appear in the garage? - in detail
Mice entering a garage create damage to stored items, wiring, and insulation. Immediate action reduces infestation risk and prevents structural harm.
First, locate entry points. Examine walls, foundation, doors, and windows for gaps larger than a quarter inch. Check around utility penetrations, vents, and pipe sleeves. Mark each opening for repair.
Seal all openings. Use steel wool combined with silicone caulk for small cracks; apply expanding foam or metal flashing for larger gaps. Install weather‑stripping on garage doors and ensure the door sweeps touch the floor. Repair damaged screens and cover any vent openings with mesh.
Implement control measures:
- Snap traps: Place 2–3 traps along walls, behind stored boxes, and near suspected runways. Bait with peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit. Check daily and dispose of captured rodents promptly.
- Live traps: Position in quiet corners, bait similarly, and release captured mice at least one mile from the property.
- Electronic traps: Set according to manufacturer instructions; they deliver a quick, humane kill and reduce repeated handling.
Maintain sanitation to deter re‑entry. Remove food sources by storing pet feed, grain, and trash in sealed containers. Sweep debris, spilled grain, and droppings; clean with a disinfectant solution. Keep the garage organized, minimizing clutter that offers shelter.
Apply deterrents after sealing and trapping. Sprinkle peppermint oil, dried lavender, or commercial rodent repellent around entry points and along baseboards. Replace repellent material every two weeks to sustain efficacy.
Finally, monitor the area for several weeks. Re‑inspect seals, reset traps, and observe for fresh gnaw marks or droppings. Consistent vigilance prevents a minor intrusion from becoming a full‑scale infestation.