For centuries, mice have been a homeowner’s nightmare. Incredibly pervasive and persistent, mice can seriously harm your home and your health. If you’re looking to use spray foam insulation for pest control, there may be more effective solutions. We researched truly mouse-proof insulation and explored ways to keep pests out of your home.

Pest-Proof Insulation Options

There are specific insulation products available designed to deter pests. All of these require a pest control license to install, which we don’t carry. That said, these products are only truly necessary if your home has a prolonged or recurring pest problem. We partner with local pest control companies to address the infestation, remove contaminated insulation, and install the correct insulation to suit your long-term needs. In most cases, a traditional insulation product will be the best option and likely be more than enough to deter the occasional mouse, rat, or chipmunk.

Using Spray Foam Insulation to Keep Mice Out

Spray foam is engineered to seal air leaks, including the small cracks and holes that pests use to infiltrate the home. The foam material expands to fill as much space as possible where it is applied, creating a thermal barrier inside gaps in windows, doors, walls, and flooring.

Spray foam insulation will deter mice and other rodents by blocking their paths to the indoors, such as foundation cracks. The insulation is incredibly difficult for mice or other pests to chew through.

Is Spray Foam Insulation Mouse-Proof?

Unfortunately, spray foam insulation isn’t mouse-proof. Given enough time and incentive, mice can eat through almost anything, including most types of insulation.

Still, spray foam insulation can keep mice away long enough for you to address the causes of the mice infestation.

Will Mice Eat Through Spray Foam?

Yes, mice can eat through spray foam insulation, but it will take a considerable amount of time and effort. Closed-cell spray foam is denser than open-cell spray foam, making it a better option for preventing infestations. Some homeowners with ongoing pest issues also use cellulose insulation, which often contains chemicals that deter pests.

How to Get Rid of Mice in Your Home

When you notice signs of mice inside your home, follow these steps to eliminate them quickly. Of course, the best way to get rid of mice is to prevent their entry in the first place; we have tips for that, too!

1. Identify and Seal Entry Points

Look for gaps and openings that allow mice or rats to enter the home. If you’ve spotted mice for the first time, the rodents’ nest is likely still outdoors; sealing entry points will prevent them from reentering or others from following them inside. Effective methods include using high-quality sealants, replacing insulation (where necessary), and adding physical barriers like steel wool and metal sheeting. These materials are all difficult for mice to chew through – but don’t put it past them.

2. Set Mouse Traps

Snap traps capture and kill mice; if you prefer taking a humane approach, purchase live traps instead. Place traps in areas where you’ve seen them moving, areas with mouse droppings, or near suspected food sources.

3. Move Food and Nesting Materials

Mice are motivated by food and shelter, just like us! Removing these incentives substantially reduces their activity. Clean up crumbs and spills, seal dry foods in airtight containers, and remove clutter from basements and attics, as mice often use random material to make nests.

4. Try Repellents

What else can you use to keep mice away? Some homeowners use peppermint oil, a hot pepper spray, or other pest repellents to deter mice. These methods may not be effective in all situations, but if you have a persistent pest, they may be worth trying to reduce the problem.

5. Get Expert Help

If your rodent mitigation efforts aren’t successful, contact a professional pest control expert for assistance. Quick action is recommended because mice and other rodents carry dozens of diseases, including hantavirus, leptospirosis, rat-bite fever, and several more.

Read More: How to Prevent Heat Loss in Homes

Your Local Insulation (Not Pest) Pros

You can do more than fill mouse holes with spray foam insulation. It’s an excellent, versatile thermal barrier and a smart investment for energy- and cost-conscious homeowners. Find out how insulation can enhance your comfort and lower energy bills, starting with a free estimate. Contact your local Koala Insulation today to get started!