How to seal gaps where mice are getting into my house

Difficulty Intermediate Time 2-4 hours Materials $31–$62 Steps 6
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Intermediate2-4 hours
Wear gloves and a mask when handling materials.
Do it yourself
$31–$62
parts & materials, about 2-4 hours of your time
Hire a pro
$200–$400
typical all-in price
Doing it yourself could save roughly $138
Rough estimates for guidance only — actual costs vary by job, materials and local prices. Get real quotes.

Tools you'll need

Caulking gunUtility knifeWire brush

Parts & materials

Silicone caulk
Typically need: 2
$5-$10
per each
Steel wool
Typically need: 1
$3-$7
per bag
Expanding foam sealant
Typically need: 1
$8-$15
per can
Weather stripping
Typically need: 1
$10-$20
per roll

Estimated materials total: $31–$62. Prices vary by region and retailer.

Step by step

  1. 1 Inspect for entry points Thoroughly inspect the exterior and interior of your home for any gaps or holes where mice could enter. 30 min
  2. 2 Clean the area Use a wire brush to clean around the gaps to ensure good adhesion of the sealant. 30 min Wire brush
  3. 3 Seal small gaps with caulk Apply silicone caulk to small gaps and cracks using a caulking gun. 1 hour Caulking gun
  4. 4 Fill larger gaps with expanding foam Use expanding foam sealant for larger gaps to create a barrier. 1 hour
  5. 5 Stuff holes with steel wool For holes that are too large for caulk or foam, stuff them with steel wool to deter mice. 30 min Ensure the steel wool is packed tightly to prevent mice from pushing it out.
  6. 6 Install weather stripping Install weather stripping around doors and windows to prevent drafts and entry. 30 min Utility knife

Permits, safety & disposal

Safety rules
  • Wear gloves and a mask when handling materials.
  • Ensure proper ventilation when using sealants.
Legal disposal
  • Dispose of any unused sealant and materials at your local household hazardous waste facility.
Check locally

Check local regulations in Naperville, IL for any specific disposal guidelines.

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This guide is AI-generated for general help and may not fit your exact situation. Know your limits — when in doubt, hire a licensed pro.

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