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Are you looking for a way to seal cracks and crevices to prevent mice from entering a building that actually works and lasts? Integrated Wildlife Damage Control sometimes requires the use of special products. Controlling mouse and bat entry is one of those situations where professional products are needed.

First, a warning. NEVER, NEVER, NEVER secure a hole or crevice unless you are absolutely certain the access point is not being using by wildlife. To learn how to determine whether a location is being used visit inspection.

We all know that controlling mice populations is only part of the solution. The other half of the solution lies in preventing mouse access to your home or building in the first place. While complete mouse exclusion is probably near impossible (just like a burglar proof home), it is prudent to at least take down the welcome sign and seal those cracks and crevices that invite easy mouse and rodent access.

The Problem

Finding a way to easily close off those gaps and crevices to prevent rodent and insect entry.

• Gaps around pipes
• Crevices between foundation and wall

Gaps in wall	Gaps around pipes	Gaps at soffit

Ways to Secure Crevices

Gaps 1/8-inch or less

Caulk with appropriate indoor or outdoor caulk.

Gaps 3/16-inch to 1/2-inch

Option 1. Copper Stuf-it

This tubular woven copper product (6" wide, 100 feet long) easily folds and fits into tiny crevices where mice can enter your home. Using your fingers or a flat head screw driver, just insert the product into the crack. Then use scissors to proper length. Then take some caulk and seal the opening. The caulk works with the copper stuf-it to prevent mouse access. First, the stuff-it provides a more solid barrier that is more difficult for mice to chew through. Second, the caulk prevents heat loss that will attract mice in the cold months. (Warning, don't caulk/foam if you need the opening to allow air flow).

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Option 2. Stainless Steel Wool

Don't use steel wool as it will rust. Be sure you are using stainless steel wool. The downside of stainless steel wool is it doesn't collapse well.

Gaps 1/2-inch or larger

If air-exchange isn't needed, then fill the gap with expanding foam or insulation and cover with permanent solid material like aluminum flashing.

If air-exchange is needed, then cover gap with 1/4-inch hardware cloth (see photo at left). Use screws and washers to secure the mesh to the structure. Prevent insects, by covering the opening with mosquito netting then overlay the netting with hardware cloth. Remember, though, mosquito netting will impede airflow.

 

What about Expandable Foam?

Expandable foam was developed to reduce heating costs by thermally tightening a structure. An important secondary benefit is that it excludes some pests for unpredictable lengths of time.