What to do if there are mice in a frame house? - briefly
Seal all openings, install snap or live traps, and store food in rodent‑proof containers to remove attractants. Contact a licensed pest‑control professional for a comprehensive inspection and long‑term prevention plan.
What to do if there are mice in a frame house? - in detail
Rodent intrusion in a timber‑framed dwelling requires immediate assessment and systematic action.
First, identify all possible entry points. Examine foundation joints, wall cavities, roof eaves, utility penetrations, and gaps around doors and windows. Mark each opening with chalk or tape for later sealing.
Second, eliminate food and water sources. Store all grains, cereals, and pet food in airtight containers. Repair leaking pipes, clear standing water, and remove dishwater from sinks overnight.
Third, install exclusion measures. Apply steel‑wool or copper mesh to small cracks, and use expanding polyurethane foam for larger gaps. For ventilation openings, fit metal screens with mesh size no larger than ¼ inch.
Fourth, deploy control devices. Choose from the following options:
- Snap traps placed along walls, behind appliances, and near identified pathways. Bait with peanut butter or dried fruit.
- Live‑catch traps for humane removal, positioned similarly and checked frequently.
- Electronic traps for rapid kill, requiring placement on non‑conductive surfaces.
- Bait stations containing anticoagulant rodenticides, secured in tamper‑proof boxes and positioned out of reach of children and pets.
Fifth, monitor activity. Record trap captures daily, noting location and time. Adjust placement based on observed movement patterns.
Sixth, consider professional intervention if infestation persists after three weeks of self‑managed efforts. Licensed exterminators can perform comprehensive sealing, apply rodenticides with strict safety protocols, and provide follow‑up inspections.
Finally, maintain preventative routine. Conduct quarterly inspections of the building envelope, keep vegetation trimmed away from the structure, and ensure waste containers are sealed. Consistent vigilance reduces the likelihood of re‑infestation.