No one wants mice sneaking into their home as the weather cools down, but these clever animals can find their way in through surprisingly small spaces. So, what are the top 5 entry points they use? Think gaps around doors and windows, cracks in the foundation, utility line openings, roof vents and chimneys, and garages or basements. 

Identifying and sealing these areas is key to keeping them out of your Richmond Hill home for good. Want to know exactly how to tackle each spot? Let’s dive into the details in the full blog!

Gaps Around Doors and Windows

Have you checked the weather sealing on your doors and windows lately? It’s an easy thing to overlook, but worn-out weather stripping can leave small gaps that invite wildlife into your home, especially mice, which can squeeze through holes as small as a dime!

Here’s what to watch for:

• Exterior doors: Gaps around the edges, especially at the bottom, are common. A worn or damaged door sweep could be the culprit.
• Windows: Older window frames may develop cracks or wear down over time, creating easy entry points for wildlife.
• Sliding doors: Check the tracks to ensure the doors close completely, as gaps can form here too.

The good news? Fixing these issues is quick and effective:

• Replace worn-out weather stripping around doors and windows.
• Install a new door sweep if needed.

With just a little effort, you can keep mice (and other animals) out while keeping your home secure and cozy!

Cracks in the Foundation

Your home’s foundation might be more vulnerable than you think. Mice are clever and constantly look for small openings near the ground—cracks in your foundation can become their perfect entry point. Even tiny gaps can act as open invitations.

One common issue is expansion cracks. Temperature changes cause your foundation to expand and contract, creating small fractures that can grow over time, big enough for a mouse to squeeze through. Also, check around areas where pipes or cables enter the foundation, as these spots often loosen over time, creating gaps. Don’t forget your basement! Cracks in the walls or floor edges can quickly become pathways for unwanted animals.

Sealing cracks early doesn’t just keep rodents out; it also prevents other maintenance headaches. A quick inspection and some simple fixes now can save you bigger problems later. Take a little time to protect your home and keep it safe and secure!

Openings Around Utility Lines and Pipes

Most homes have several places where cables, pipes, and vents exit the building. While these are necessary, they often leave behind gaps that mice exploit.

• Plumbing Lines: Check where pipes for bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms enter the structure. These often have small spaces around them, and mice are skilled at finding them.
• Electrical Wiring: Gaps around electrical wiring or cable lines leading into your home are common, especially in homes with older setups.
• Crawl Spaces: Homes with basements or crawl spaces may have more noticeable openings around utility connections.

If you notice any openings, seal them with proper materials such as steel wool or caulking. This keeps rodents from gnawing at and enlarging those gaps over time.

Roof Vents and Chimneys

Most people don’t think about mice reaching their roofs, but you’d be surprised how skilled these little animals can be at climbing. Once they find their way up there, higher entry points like roof vents and chimneys become easy access spots.

Roof vents are a common problem if they’re damaged or broken. Openings in or around the vent can give mice the perfect way into your home. Making sure your vents are covered with strong, fine mesh can stop them in their tracks. 

Chimneys are another big risk, especially if they’re uncapped. An uncovered chimney is like a fast lane for mice trying to escape the cold. Installing a proper chimney cap can fully block these unwanted visitors. Lastly, pay attention to your soffits and eaves. If they’re damaged or have gaps, they can act as weak spots that rodents will happily take advantage of.

Regularly checking your roof vents, chimneys, and other high spots can save you from a lot of frustration. Repairing any damage right away will not only keep mice out but also keep your home secure and safe from other potential problems. A little maintenance here can make a big difference!

Garage and Basement Access

Garages and basements are two spots that often get overlooked, but they can be major problem areas when it comes to keeping unwanted rodents out. A garage door that doesn’t seal properly against the ground can leave just enough of a gap for a mouse to crawl through. And if your garage connects directly to your house, that’s even worse since it gives them a straight path indoors.

Basements can also be trouble. Tiny gaps around vents, old window wells, or along floor edges are often used as entryways. Add to this the fact that many people store food, garbage, or pet supplies in these areas, and it’s practically an open invitation for rodents.

Taking the time to seal these spaces properly can make a big difference. Not only does it help block animals, but it also adds an extra layer of security to these parts of the house.

Seasonal Rodent Control: Protecting Your Home

Preventing mice from entering your house doesn’t stop at sealing gaps. Here are some extra tips to ensure long-term protection during this season and beyond:

• Seal Gaps and Cracks: Do a full inspection around your home and plug up any small holes or cracks. Use sturdy materials like wire mesh or expanding foam to ensure they can’t gnaw their way back in.
• Store Food Properly: Mice can sniff out food easily. Make sure all pantry goods, pet food, and birdseed are stored in airtight containers. Keep garbage tightly covered.
• Maintain a Clean Yard: Trim bushes, remove debris, and avoid leaving piles of wood close to your house. This takes away their hiding spots near entry points.
• Inspect Attic and Basement Areas: Look for signs such as droppings or gnawed materials in less-used parts of your home. Spotting activity early can prevent a full infestation.
• Schedule a Professional Inspection: Sometimes, it’s best to call in experts. Wildlife control professionals like can identify hidden access points and implement humane measures, such as one-way doors, to remove them safely and prevent re-entry.

Keeping your seasonal rodent control plan in place will save you a lot of trouble in the long run. Prevention is always easier than dealing with an infestation later.

Don’t Wait for the Problem to Escalate

Mice are clever, but we’ve got the knowledge to outsmart them. With the right approach, you can identify their entry points and take action to protect your house. From gaps around doors to cracks in the foundation and beyond, these are the main ways they’re getting in this season.

At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Richmond Hill, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with these unwanted visitors. That’s why we combine our humane removal techniques with prevention strategies to keep your home rodent-free. Our method uses one-way doors to guide animals out safely while making sure they can’t return.

When it comes to mouse entry points, home wildlife prevention, and seasonal rodent control, trust us to help you take back your space. A house without mice is one less problem to worry about this season. Reach out to us today—we’re ready to help you protect what matters most.