I get the logic behind copper mesh and all that, but I’ve actually had better luck with just sealing up every possible gap, even the tiny ones you’d swear nothing could fit through. I tried the peppermint oil thing once—my basement smelled like a candy cane for a week, but the mice didn’t seem too bothered. Maybe it works for some, but I’m not convinced it does much long-term.
About steel wool, though—has anyone else noticed it sometimes just gets pushed out of place? I stuffed some into a hole behind my washing machine and found it on the floor a few days later. Maybe I didn’t pack it tight enough, or maybe those mice are stronger than they look... Either way, I’m starting to think physical barriers plus some caulk or foam is the only way to go. Anyone ever tried ultrasonic repellents? I keep seeing ads but can’t tell if they’re legit or just another gimmick.
Steel wool’s a classic, but yeah, I’ve seen mice just shove it aside like it’s nothing—little bodybuilders, I swear. Ever had one chew right through spray foam? I thought that stuff was impenetrable until I found a tunnel. Anyone ever actually seen ultrasonic things work, or is it just marketing magic?
Ever had one chew right through spray foam? I thought that stuff was impenetrable until I found a tunnel.
Spray foam’s not much of a barrier for rodents, honestly. I’ve seen them chew through it plenty of times during pipe repairs. Anyone tried copper mesh instead of steel wool? Holds up better in my experience.
- Had the same issue last winter—thought spray foam would do the trick, but found a mouse nest right behind it.
- Copper mesh has worked better for me than steel wool. Steel wool rusts and breaks down over time, especially if there’s any moisture.
- I always add a layer of caulk over the mesh for extra security. Not perfect, but slows them down.
- Honestly, nothing’s totally rodent-proof, but copper mesh seems to buy you more time before they find another way in...
Copper mesh has worked better for me than steel wool. Steel wool rusts and breaks down over time, especially if there’s any moisture.
Agreed, copper mesh holds up a lot better, especially in damp crawlspaces. I've seen steel wool disintegrate in less than a year under a slow leak. Curious if anyone's tried the stainless steel variants? They're pricier, but supposedly don't rust out as fast. Wondering if that's overkill or actually worth it for pipe chases or foundation gaps.