What to do with mice in the wall? - briefly
Identify and block all openings that allow rodents to enter the cavity. Deploy suitable traps or bait stations, then monitor activity and repair any resulting damage.
What to do with mice in the wall? - in detail
Rodent activity inside wall cavities requires immediate attention to prevent structural damage, electrical hazards, and disease transmission.
First, locate the infestation. Listen for scratching or scurrying sounds, look for gnaw marks, droppings, or grease trails along baseboards and insulation. Use a flashlight to inspect accessible voids through cutouts or vent openings.
Next, eliminate entry points. Seal cracks, gaps around pipes, vents, and utility penetrations with steel wool, copper mesh, or expanding foam rated for pest control. Install metal flashing or cementitious sealant around foundation joints and exterior wall seams.
Implement control measures within the wall space:
- Snap traps or electronic traps positioned near identified pathways; bait with high‑protein items such as peanut butter or dried fruit.
- Enclosed bait stations containing anticoagulant rodenticides, placed in accordance with local regulations and out of reach of children and non‑target animals.
- Live‑capture traps, if relocation is preferred, followed by immediate release at a suitable distance from the property.
If the infestation persists or access is limited, engage a licensed pest‑management professional. Professionals can apply rodenticides, ultrasonic deterrents, or structural modifications that exceed DIY capabilities.
Finally, adopt preventive practices: maintain a clean perimeter, store food in sealed containers, trim vegetation away from the building envelope, and schedule periodic inspections to detect early signs of rodent activity.
These actions collectively eradicate the current problem and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.