I get the point about hardware cloth, but I’ve actually had decent luck with steel wool packed tight in smaller gaps—mice seem to hate it, at least in my area. For sensors, I’ll add: sometimes those zip ties loosen up over time, especially if the pipe sweats. I’ve started using metal hose clamps for a more solid hold. Not as quick, but less fiddling later.
sometimes those zip ties loosen up over time, especially if the pipe sweats. I’ve started using metal hose clamps for a more solid hold.
Totally agree on hose clamps—zip ties always seem like a good idea until you find one dangling off a wet pipe in July. I tried steel wool for mice too, but those little guys in my basement must be part goat... they just chew right through it. Maybe I need to find the extra-spicy kind.
Yeah, hose clamps are just more reliable—zip ties never hold up for me either, especially once things get damp. As for mice, I hear you. I tried the steel wool trick and those critters still found a way in. Someone told me to mix steel wool with caulk or foam, so it’s not as easy for them to chew through. Haven’t had much luck yet, but maybe worth a shot? Mice are relentless...
I tried the steel wool trick and those critters still found a way in.
- Steel wool alone isn’t enough—mice can push it out or chew around it. Mixing it with caulk is better, but expanding foam alone won’t stop them. They’ll just gnaw right through.
- For pipe penetrations, I use copper mesh (doesn’t rust) packed tight, then cover with a silicone-based sealant. Seems to hold up longer, especially in damp basements.
- Hose clamps are my go-to for anything under pressure or exposed to weather. Zip ties get brittle fast.
Curious—anyone tried those ultrasonic repellents near plumbing runs? I’ve seen mixed results but never tested them myself.
I’ve actually tried those ultrasonic things—honestly, I didn’t notice much difference. Maybe the mice just got used to the noise, or maybe my old house is just too inviting. The copper mesh trick has worked best for me, especially in the laundry room where it’s always damp. Anyone else have issues with critters getting in through dryer vents? I swear, they treat it like a welcome mat...