Filling In Mouse Access Points In Your Concrete Foundation
Posted on: 30 November 2016
If you notice mice in your home, then these rodents are likely getting into your residence through small openings. Cracks and holes in the foundation are common entry points for mice, so inspect the edge of your home carefully for the openings. If you find them, then you will need to close them up carefully to keep more rodents from moving into your house. Keep reading to learn how to close both small and large holes in a way that they are rodent proof.
Small Holes
If you notice small cracks and holes across your foundation, then you will need to identify the spaces that mice can fit through. Mice have extremely flexible spinal vertebrae and joints that can squeeze into small spaces. A mouse's skull is not flexible though, and any space that is smaller than the head cannot be used as an access point. Typically, a mouse can slip its head through a hole that is about as big around as a dime. Look for spaces that are about this big.
Fill in the small holes when you find them and use a material that cannot be chewed through. Mice can chew through paper, plastic, caulk, insulation, and a variety of other materials you may use to fill in a foundation opening. They cannot chew through metal though, so a metal fill material can be used successfully to close mouse access points. There are two types of fillers that are ideal: steel and copper mesh. Copper mesh is a better choice than steel though, because it resists corrosion when exposed to the elements.
Purchase a spool or roll of copper mesh from your local home store. Cut off small pieces of the mesh and use your hands to roll the pieces into balls. Shove the balls into the openings until they can no longer be filled with the mesh.
Large Openings
Large openings can also be filled with copper mesh material, but the copper is more likely to fall out of the spaces. Also, while mice cannot chew through the metal, they can pull it out if they are highly motivated. This is more likely to happen when filling in large areas with mesh, because they are harder to pack tightly with the material.
For larger holes, it is wise to fill them in with concrete. Masonry patching materials can work well to make the repairs. Opt for fast drying hydraulic cement to make the fixes. This material can be mixed and spread just like regular cement. Epoxy fillers made for masonry repair work can also be used to fix the openings. Just make sure that you use a wire brush or another tool to release loose concrete before making your repairs. If you still keep having problems with rodent infestations, contact a professional at a company like Greenleaf Organic Pest Management.
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