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The Handbook: Prevention and Control of Wildlife Damage Management, Internet Center
Wildlife Damage for

July 1994

Rodent-Proof Construction and Exclusion Methods

Rex O. Baker
California State Polytechnic University

Gerald R. Bodman
University of Nebraska - Lincoln

Robert M. Timm
University of California, Hopland

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Baker, Rex O.; Bodman, Gerald R.; and Timm, Robert M., "Rodent-Proof Construction and Exclusion
Methods" (1994). The Handbook: Prevention and Control of Wildlife Damage. 27.
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Rex O. Baker
Professor and Research Project Leader
Horticulture/Plant & Soil Science
RODENT-PROOF
California State Polytechnic University
Pomona, California 91768 CONSTRUCTION AND
Gerald R. Bodman
Extension Agricultural Engineer —
Livestock Systems EXCLUSION
Department of Biological
Systems Engineering
University of Nebraska METHODS
Lincoln, Nebraska 68583

Robert M. Timm
Superintendent and Extension
Wildlife Specialist
Hopland Research and
Extension Center
University of California
Hopland, California 95449

Importance of Rodent- Many types of land, air, and water livestock feed. One rat can eat about
transportation systems and their infra- 1/2 pound (227 g) of feed per week,
Proof Construction structure also face serious rodent infes- and will contaminate and waste per-
tation problems. Infestations are of haps 10 times that amount.
Rats and mice cause serious damage to
particular concern in the transporta-
all kinds of structures if they are Rodents destroy insulation, electrical
tion of foodstuffs, feed, and other agri-
allowed access to them. Damage by wiring, plumbing, and other structural
cultural products. Commensal rodents
rodents has been documented in consume and contaminate human and components of buildings (Fig. 1). Insu-
homes, apartments, hotels, office com-
plexes, retail businesses, manufactur-
ing facilities, food processing and
warehouse facilities, public utility
operations (especially power and elec-
tronic media operations), farm and
feed storage buildings, and other
structures.
In urban settings, rodents most often
cause damage to older, inner-city
buildings and utilities in poor repair.
New housing developments may ex-
perience commensal rodent problems,
but problems are more noticeable in
neighborhoods 10 to 12 years of age or
older. Ornamental plantings, accumu-
lation of refuse, woodpiles, and other
such sources of harborage and food
are more quickly invaded and occu-
pied by rodents when adjacent to an Fig. 1. (a) Electrical cord of a freezer in a retail market, severely damaged by house mice; (b)
fiberglass batt insulation within walls of a hog finishing house near Lincoln, Nebraska, was
established rodent habitat. destroyed by house mice in less than 3 years.

PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF WILDLIFE DAMAGE — 1994

Cooperative Extension Division
Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
United States Department of Agriculture
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Animal Damage Control
B-137
Great Plains Agricultural Council
Wildlife Committee
 lation damage alone may amount to a 1/4"
1/2"
loss of several thousand dollars in only
a few years. Energy loss from dam-
←→ ↔
aged buildings results in added annual
costs. Rodent-induced fires from dam- Fig. 3. Rats can gain entry through holes larger
than 1/2 inch (1.3 cm); mice can use holes larger
aged electrical wiring or nest building than 1/4 inch (0.6 cm).
in electrical panels cause loss of prop-
erty and threaten human safety. sewer lines against a substantial
Rodents also serve as vectors or reser- water current. In areas where high
voirs of a variety of diseases, such as rat populations exist, it is common
salmonellosis, leptospirosis, and for both roof rats and Norway rats
murine typhus, that are transmittable to enter buildings through toilets
to humans. Additionally, they may be and uncovered drains.
sources of swine dysentery, brucel-
losis, sarcoptic mange, and tuberculo- House mice can:
sis, all of which affect livestock or pets. - enter openings larger than 1/4 inch
(0.6 cm);
The most effective means of limiting - jump as high as 18 inches (46 cm)
rodent damage is rodent-proof con- from a floor onto an elevated sur-
Fig. 2. Rat traveling along an electric wire.
struction. New buildings should be face;
designed and built to prevent rodent - travel considerable distances crawl-
entry. Rodent-proofing is a good - crawl horizontally along or through
ing upside-down along screen wire;
investment. Designing and construct- pipes, augers, conveyors, conduit,
- survive and reproduce at a tempera-
ing a rodent-proof building is less and underground utility and com-
ture of 24oF (-4oC) if adequate food
expensive than adding rodent-proof- munications lines;
and nesting material are available.
ing later. Nevertheless, poor mainte- - gnaw through a wide variety of
nance or management practices, such materials, including lead and alumi-
as leaving entry doors and unscreened num sheeting, window screens, Survey for Entry Points
windows open, will make the best- wood, rubber, vinyl, fiberglass,
constructed building susceptible to plastic, and low-quality concrete or When inspecting sites for potential
rodent entry. Techniques discussed concrete block. rodent entry points, look for rub
here apply both to new construction Rats can: marks, droppings, tracks, gnawing, or
and to the modification of existing - crawl through or under any opening other rodent signs. Special attention
structures. higher or wider than 1/2 inch (1.3 should be paid to areas discussed
cm) (Fig 3); under Common Rodent Entry Points
Junctures where utilities (pipes, cables)
- climb the outside of vertical pipes (below). Keep in mind the physical
enter structures require special consid-
and conduits up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) abilities and behavior of the particular
eration in preventing rodent entry.
in diameter; climb the outside of rodents, especially their tendency to
Some earthquake design criteria
larger pipes attached to buildings seek shelter behind, under, or in appli-
require open spaces in important joints
by bracing themselves between the ances, sinks cabinets, drawers, stored
and other support areas, to allow for
wall and the pipe; climb the inside goods, wall voids, false ceilings, and
limited movement of tall structures.
of vertical pipes, wall voids, or other undisturbed areas.
These present a real challenge in the
design of rodent-proof construction. earthquake safety seams and joints To conduct a thorough survey, inspec-
between 1 1/2 and 4 inches (3.8 and tors will need an inspection form and
Physical Abilities of Rats 10.2 cm) in diameter; paper for noting and illustrating items
- jump from a flat surface up to 36 needing attention; a good flashlight; a
and Mice inches (91 cm) vertically and as far mirror (to see under and behind ob-
as 48 inches horizontally; jects); and screwdrivers and other
To prevent rodent entry, their capabili-
- drop 50 feet (15 m) without being small hand tools to remove interior
ties must be understood. For example,
seriously injured; and exterior vent grills, appliance base
both rats and mice can:
- burrow straight down into the plates, and service doors to attics,
- run along or climb electrical wires,
ground for at least 36 inches (91 crawl spaces, and utility cabinets. A
pipes, fences, poles, ropes, cables,
cm); tape measure is usually necessary
vines, shrubs, and trees to gain
- reach as high or wide as 13 inches (33 when preparing a plan and estimating
entry to a building (Fig. 2);
cm); materials needed for repair. A small
- climb almost any rough vertical sur-
- swim as far as 1/2 mile (800 m) in dustpan, broom, and some lime, flour,
face, such as wood, brick, concrete,
open water, dive through water or similar powdered material are use-
weathered sheet metal, and many
traps in plumbing, and travel in ful in preparing an area for a follow-up
plastic products;

B-138
Fig. 4a. Low-profile wall vent with poorly Fig. 4b. Gap (3/4 x 26 inch) between wall Fig. 4c. Large hole gnawed by Norway rats in
attached hardware cloth, allowing for easy covering and framing at roof joint, allowing rats weather strip on the base of a warehouse door.
rodent entry. and mice easy access.

observation of fresh tracks. A camera commonly encountered rodent entry Food Handling Facilities and
can be of great value, especially when points. Neoprene seals, spray-in-place Warehouses. Businesses in which
trying to design a project after leaving foam, and similar products commonly food is stored or handled are espe-
the site, or when seeking assistance used to close openings are not rodent- cially prone to rodent invasion. Good
from someone unfamiliar with the site. proof. sanitation practices are essential. Keep-
A simple item to use when measuring ing food well-sealed is very important
Even in new buildings, utility pipes,
gaps under doors or around pipes, and more difficult than might initially
electrical conduit (often at meters or
screens, or vents is a common wooden appear. Scraps of food can often be
circuit breaker panels), water and gas
pencil or ball-point pen (usually 3/16 found in floor drains, under food
lines, and communication cables gen-
to 3/8 inch [0.5 to 1.0 cm] in diameter) preparation equipment and stored
erally have large openings that permit
— large enough for mouse entry. products, and around refuse and entry
entry of mice and rats. Once rodents
areas. Outside doors are often left ajar
have entered walls, they generally
Common Rodent Entry or fit poorly due to heavy use, physical
have ready access to much of a build-
damage, or improper installation.
Points ing via holes for utility pipes and wires
in the framing, and via overhead sus- Space under equipment (mixers,
Many structures have inherently simi- pended ceilings or other types of con- stoves, counters, or refrigerators)
lar rodent entry areas due to similarity struction adjacent to utility enclosures. should allow easy cleaning and inspec-
in design (particularly entry and ser- Specific problem areas include poorly tion, or be closed off completely with
vice areas), utility sources, and build- sealed heating and air conditioning rodent-proof materials (Fig. 5). Mice
ing equipment. For the sake of ducts; roof and wall vents installed and rats are sometimes found using
simplicity, we have attempted to without strong, well-attached hard- freezer and refrigerator compressor
group similar structures and settings. ware cloth screening (Fig. 4a); roof and areas for harborage and water (from
wall joints and edges without properly condensation on cold coils). Mice are
Commercial Office Buildings,
installed metal flashing (Fig. 4b); and often found in the insulated walls of
Hotels, Hospitals, and Retail
doors hung unevenly or too high, or large coolers. Look closely at corners
Stores. Commercial buildings are
lined with unprotected soft rubber and edges of metal, or other material
constructed from types of materials
weather stripping (Fig. 4c). Refuse and covering the insulation, for rodent
and design methods that vary greatly
food handling areas are likely to have openings. Drains should have ade-
in the degree of susceptibility to rodent
the greatest rodent pressure. In older quate screens or grates to prevent
infestation (for example, metal and
buildings, cracks in concrete slabs, rodent entry.
concrete versus wood). Most struc-
tures eventually become less rodent- brick and concrete block walls, or
Food disposal, refuse, and damaged
proof due to deterioration, alteration, worn or damaged drain covers allow
goods areas are often located close to
or repair. Heating, air conditioning, rodent entry. Air and elevator shafts
food handling or storage areas and are
plumbing, electrical service, and fire and laundry chutes also merit close
not sealed from rodents. Areas near
sprinklers provide some of the most inspection.
loading docks should be closely

B-139
 vide excellent harborage in winter,
spring, and fall, but are often too hot
during summer. Common attics, base-
ments, or raised foundations in condo-
miniums and apartments are a
frequent source of rodent infestation.
Another source of entry to residences,
and a source of harborage for rats and
mice, are fireplaces—especially the
newer preconstructed zero clearance
sheet metal units that eliminate the
need for concrete mortar and brick. A
hollow space is left in the siding and
the fireplace support framing between
the outside wall and the fireplace. Rats
and mice can enter this area from the
outside via the roof joint, between the
Fig. 6. Poorly installed light-gauge roof vent,
siding and decorative wood corner
Fig. 5. Area under food preparation equipment
is raised above a smooth stainless steel floor, allowing easy access of rodents between roofing trim, around gas pipes, or outside
allowing for easy cleaning of food spills and and base of vent. Gaps were large enough to wood storage doors.
open to prevent harborage. allow rats and pigeons to enter.
Once a rodent gets into the attic, inside
entry to the fireplace void is often easy
inspected for cracks, broken screens, presence of tight roof jacks (Fig. 6).
because of poorly fitted sheeting or
damaged doors, and uneven floors Chimneys should be checked for prop-
metal collars. Entry to the inside of the
near doorways. Interior loading docks erly installed flashing or for missing
fireplace is made from the damper
served by rail cars are difficult to close mortar.
area or cool air and warm air returns
due to the tracks, but rubber door
Rats occasionally enter buildings on units that provide for air circulation
guards made to fit the tracks are avail-
through toilet traps in inner-city areas around the firebox. When the fireplace
able and will deter rodent entry.
with rat-infested sewer systems. In is in use, the heat will prevent rodent
Rodent-infested goods in food ware- such cases, tracks and water may be entry. If the outside cannot be sealed,
houses commonly include cereals, found on the rim of toilet bowls. Both glass doors that seal the burn area are
flour, and baking mixes; waxed carton roof and Norway rats have been recommended to prevent rodent entry
drinks; dry pet foods; dried fruits and known to enter structures via the sew- throughout the year. Cracked and
nuts; fresh produce; paper goods; age system. This route usually occurs missing mortar, or poorly fitted siding
charcoal briquets, and damaged in older (20 years or more) established or plaster, may allow entry through
goods. Products in these categories areas with poorly maintained sewer brick or rock fireplaces.
should be kept in open, easily in- systems. Mice often enter under entry
Tile or shake shingle roofs allow
spected areas, not in dark corners. doors, through holes beside water
rodent entry if the roof is not solidly
Regular and routine removal of such pipes and electrical conduit, and
sheeted with plywood or similar
nonsalable or nonusable products through the cold air return ducts on
material and the tile is not properly fit-
should be standard practice to enhance forced air furnaces, especially those
ted and grouted. Vents without tightly
cleanliness and safety and to reduce located in outside cabinets or garages,
fitted double roof jacks also facilitate
harborage. and underneath mobile homes. Mice
access to rodents.
and rats often find easy access to
Apartments and Houses. Utility
garage areas through open doors or Gaps or flaws in foundations and
entry points include underground
under and beside poor-fitting garage slabs, or where the wall framing meets
electrical and communication trunk
doors. Once in the garage, they may the foundation or slab floor, may pro-
lines, and exhaust vents for clothes
gain entry into the main structure vide large enough openings for rodent
dryers. Power lines have always been
along electrical lines, pipes, poorly entry. Older buildings commonly have
a favorite route of travel for commen-
sealed fire wall sheathing, or around cracked foundations, cracked plaster
sal rodents, especially roof rats. Check
furnace ducts, hot water heaters, or or mortar, warped siding, or broken
all roof joints for tightness and pres-
laundry drains. and torn vent screens. Wood or mas-
ence of flashing, if rats and mice have
onite siding is especially vulnerable to
access to the roof via wire, pipes, If rodents are able to reach the attic,
warping and cracking near corners
plants, or rough-textured walls. Also they may travel from room to room or
and around the base of the building.
check roof and sewer vents for ade- unit to unit through openings for
Old, unused holes where utilities for-
quate screening and sealing, including pipes, ducts, and wiring. Attics pro-
merly entered the structure are also

B-140
common, especially in raised founda- important. Clean up spilled feed, and
tion and basement homes. Window store feed and seed in rodent-proof
screens are often left off or fit poorly in buildings and containers. Keep sacked
older, low-cost apartments and homes, materials off the floor when possible.
allowing rodent entry from exterior This facilitates for inspection and
utility lines and pipes running along reduces harborage.
exterior walls. Runways going to win-
Excluding rodents from livestock and
dow ledges are often observed on
poultry operations is another challenge
stucco and brick walls and in orna-
due to livestock and manure manage-
mental plantings next to buildings.
ment and various animal husbandry
Manufacturing Plants and Farm practices. Nevertheless, rodent-proof-
Buildings. Overhead or under- ing is important and can be accom-
ground pipes, conveyor belts, and plished. Many of the entry points
augers commonly found in farm build- already identified for other types of
ings and factories are often used as structures apply to farm buildings.
entry points and routes into and Additional problem areas include
between buildings. Such equipment, insulated walls used for harborage,
particularly if abandoned, may pro- Fig. 8. Large gap between roll-up warehouse
feed bins, and portable feed bunks.
vide harborage as well as food. door frame and wall, allowing for easy rodent These are but a few of the challenges
Rodent-proofing these areas is not access. discussed in more depth under Exclu-
easy if the equipment is still in use. sion Methods (below).
entry if the bottoms of the siding
Utility entry points must be constantly panels do not rest flat on a solid sur-
monitored for excess openings caused face or they are not otherwise closed Exclusion Methods:
by equipment repair, installation, or
modification. Outside walls and doors
off. Sections of prefabricated buildings Existing Structures and
should be assembled tightly, and gaps
must also be monitored for damage Equipment
at joints should be covered with metal
from equipment or livestock and for flashing. Often, however, they are left
damage or wear from heavy use. If Holes and Openings. By gnawing,
open, especially at corners and at the
work patterns require doors to be rats can gain entry through any open-
foundation/slab interface.
open during hours of darkness, when ing greater than 1/2 inch (1.3 cm)
rodent entry is most likely, rodent bar- Roll-up or overhead doors often pro- across, and mice through any opening
riers may be needed, such as a solid vide easy entry for rodents, birds, and larger than 1/4 inch (0.6 cm). The
fence or wall or a metal wing wall be- bats. With the door closed, check for paired front (incisor) teeth of rats and
tween the foundation and adjacent gaps along the sides, bottom, and top mice curve slightly inward. This
loading dock areas (Fig. 7). of the door (Fig. 8). A gap at the top is inward curve makes it difficult for
common. Rats and mice can easily them to gnaw into a flat, hard surface.
Buildings constructed with ribbed or climb up the space between the door When given a rough surface or an
corrugated metal siding allow rodent and the inner wall or track to the top, edge to bite into, however, they can
where they gain entry and climb down quickly gnaw into most materials. To
door frame
Door frame the inside of the track. Gaps between prevent rodent entry, seal all such
the track and the wall are also com- holes with durable materials. Steel
metalwall
Metal w. well steps
Steps mon, especially if the track has been wool, copper gauze (Stuf-it® brand) or
30"
30"
installed on brick walls. Door bottoms screen wire packed tightly into open-
may be bent or damaged, leaving gaps ings is a good temporary plug. For
along the floor. Uneven floors due to long-term or permanent repair, mix a
8" frost heaves may leave gaps when the quick-drying patching plaster or an-
door is closed. choring such as Fixall® into a wad of
Stuf-it® before pushing the material
Screens on windows, crawl spaces,
loading
into the hole, and smooth over the out-
Loading and vents are often damaged in farm
dock
dock
side (Fig. 9). If steel wool is used, rust
and industrial buildings. Check these
stains are likely to result. Holes 3
carefully for needed repair or replace-
inches (8 cm) or more in diameter
ment.
should be covered or backed with
One of the greatest challenges in farm 1/4-inch (0.6-cm) woven/welded
Fig. 7. Rodent barrier or guard used between buildings is preventing feed and seed hardware cloth prior to filling with a
steps, foundation, or other sources of rodent from being a food source for rodents. good patching compound (see recom-
entry and the loading dock doors when doors
must be left open at night.
Good sanitation practices are very mendations under Foundations and

B-141
 Table 1. Recommended materials for
rodent-proofing.
Concrete: Minimum thickness of 2 inches (5.1
cm) if reinforced, or 3 3/4 inches (9.5 cm) if
not reinforced.
Galvanized sheet metal: 24 gauge or heavier for
wall or pipe barriers; 22 gauge or heavier for
kick plates or door edging. Perforated or
expanded sheet metal grills should be 14
gauge.
Brick: 3 3/4 inches (9.5 cm) thick with joints
filled with mortar.
Hardware cloth (wire mesh): Woven, 19-gauge,
1/2- x 1/2-inch (1.3- x 1.3-cm) mesh to
exclude rats; 24-gauge, 1/4- x 1/4-inch
(0.6- x 0.6-cm) mesh to exclude mice.
Aluminum: 22 gauge for frames and flashing; 18
gauge for kick plates and guards.

Fig. 9. Patching small holes with copper gauze Fig. 10. Frequently used patching materials on
and a fast-drying patching compound (left), and 1/4-inch woven hardware cloth backing.
1/4-inch hardware cloth for larger holes (right). Fomofill®, Pour Stone®, Fix-all®, and Custom
Plug® are shown as examples of the many crete) so the openings are not present
materials available. (Fig. 12). Caution: letting metal siding
rest directly against concrete can lead
to accelerated rusting and corrosion.
Floors). Another backing material The ribs and corrugations in metal sid- The siding should be installed so that
available is Strong PatchTM (D. P. ing can be blocked with metal or mor- openings are no greater than 1/8 inch
Wagner Mfg. Inc.), a 6 x 6-inch (15 x tar. Rubber or vinyl weather stops are (0.3 cm) wide. If the siding is installed
15-cm) sheet metal patch to cover quickly gnawed through. Design or with the ribs horizontal, the ends must
holes up to 5 x 5 inches (11 x 11 cm). modify buildings with metal siding by still be sealed or the bottom of the
It has a self-adhesive backing and a butting siding panels or sheets against decorative corner trim flashed and
mesh on the surface for better adhe- solid materials (metal flashing or con- closed.
sion of the patching compound or
other texture.
To close larger openings or protect
other areas subject to gnawing, use
materials such as those listed in Table
1. Hardware cloth, if not woven,
breaks easily. The woven/welded
hardware cloth maintains its shape
when cut to fit around pipes or other
objects. Hardware cloth used to cover
gaps and holes can be filled with foam
caulk, Fix-all®, Quick-Fix®, or other
fast-drying interior patching com-
pounds. When used on the exterior,
concrete mortar, plaster, or Concrete
Patch® can be used to provide longer-
term rodent-proofing (Fig. 10). These
are just a few of the many products
available.
Close openings around augers, pipes,
and electric cables where they enter
structures with Portland cement mor-
tar, Concrete Patch®, masonry, or
metal collars (Fig. 11). Even a small
unprotected opening can be an invita- Fig. 11. Seal gaps or holes with rodent-proof materials where pipes, wires, or other similar objects
tion to rodents. enter buildings.

B-142
 Metal thresholds can be fastened to
floors. Steel pipes embedded in a con-
crete floor make good rodent-proof
thresholds and allow doors to swing
free when open. Pipe thresholds are es-
pecially useful where doorways are
used by wheeled pallet jacks, heavy
equipment, or livestock. Install flash-
ing or a metal channel on the lower
edge of doors, particularly softwood
doors (Fig. 13); a plastic door boot has
been successfully used where the door
receives low use and the edges are not
easily accessible to rodent gnawing.
Properly applied flashing extends to
within 1/8 inch (0.3 cm) of the edge of
the door at the sides and bottom. Close
the gap at the top or sides of roll-up
Fig. 12. Metal siding may provide entry points for mice and rats where panel ends are left open (left). doors with conveyor belt material
Properly installed metal siding rests on the concrete floor or has metal flashing or angle iron to block
shaped to fit into the side channel
entry (right).
frames and mounted on the top door
jamb. Bent bottom rails on doors
Vents and Windows. Use only metal is already marginally adequate or should be straightened. Concrete dam-
window screening materials where inadequate, such further restrictions age due to inadequate reinforcement
windows or doors are accessible to may be unacceptable. In some loca- or poor placement practices should be
rodents. Avoid unnecessary ledges tions, small mesh screens can become repaired or the concrete replaced. A
outside windows. When necessary, clogged with dust or freeze over. In metal or pipe threshold is sometimes
screen ventilation openings and win- such situations, the use of 1/2 x 1/2- preferable or required.
dows with woven/welded galvanized inch (1.3 x 1.3-cm) hardware cloth is a
Mechanical door-closing devices save
hardware cloth. Such screening is criti- reasonable compromise between
time and help overcome human negli-
cal in commercial and farm buildings ventilation requirements and rodent
gence. Equip doorways used for venti-
and where high rodent pressures in control.
lation with rodent-proof screen doors,
residential areas are found. For large
Exterior Doors. Doors should fit or if the door surface is too slick for
openings or where the screen may be
tightly, the distance between the bot- rodents to climb, modify the existing
subject to abuse, add crossbars to sup-
tom of the door and the threshold not door so the upper half can be left open
port the hardware cloth. If the opening
exceeding 1/4 inch (0.6 cm). In some for ventilation. Always use a heavy
is an access route, install the screen on
instances, it is possible to build up the kick plate and solid frame on screen
a hinged frame.
threshold rather than modify the door. doors in commercial and agricultural
All vents and duct openings for heat-
ing and air conditioning should be
screened or raised and/or guarded
with an excluder device to prevent
rodent entry. Residential cold air
return grills can easily be mouse-
proofed by placing 1/4-inch (0.6-cm)
hardware cloth behind the grill where
it is not unsightly. In some applica-
tions, power vents can be covered
with hinged metal plates (louvered)
that open with air flow and close
when fans are off. These louvers are
only effective if they fit tightly and the
sides are recessed to prevent rodents
from pushing through them. Caution:
Hardware cloth less than 1/2 x 1/2
inch (1.3 x 1.3 cm) significantly reduces
air flow. In buildings where ventilation
Fig. 13. Metal flashing or metal channel prevents rodent gnawing at bottom edges of a door.

B-143
 buildings. Light-framed screen doors
easily get bent out of shape, allowing
rodent entry.
Interior
Foundations and Floors. Gaps or floor Ground level
flaws along building exteriors where surface
the wall framing or siding meets the
foundation provide easy entry for
18-24"
rodents. Such openings can be pre-
vented by well-formed and finished 36"
concrete work and installation of tight
4'
wall framing and siding, or installing
metal screed-type flashing between the 12"
siding and the foundation. Use of
rodent-proof exterior surface materials
such as concrete, plaster, or metal
1/4" mesh
sheeting is also effective if properly in-
stalled so that all ribs or corrugations
are closed. Fig. 15. Left: A curtain wall made of concrete will prevent rats from burrowing under foundations to gain
entry to buildings. Curtain walls can be installed on existing buildings. A horizontal footing extension
Rodents can gain entry into buildings often deflects burrowing rodents away from structures. Right: Feed sheds, corn cribs, and other existing
with piers or shallow foundation walls wooden structures can be rodent-proofed by installing hardware cloth topped by a band of sheet metal.
by burrowing beneath the floor or The hardware cloth can also serve as a curtain wall to prevent rodent burrowing.
foundation. To prevent rat entry by
Rats exert more effort to enter build- increase adhesion. It sets in 2 hours
this route, extend foundation walls
ings where feed is available. They fre- and is hard after 12 hours. Quick-Fix®
below ground at least 36 inches (91
quently seek shelter under concrete is a durable patching plaster for inside
cm). This also reduces damage from
floors and slabs, where they burrow to use on plaster, drywall, or wood sur-
frost. A horizontal footing extension
find protection. Ideally, install floors, faces. Drying time may be within 30
also may be added to deflect burrow-
slabs, and sidewalks with deep foot- minutes, depending on thickness. With
ing rodents away from the foundation
ings, or with curtain walls of concrete all of these types of repairs, the use of
(Fig. 14). Avoid the use of slab-on-
or 1/4-inch (0.6-cm) mesh wire (Fig. reinforcement with hardware cloth is
grade construction techniques for agri-
15). The choice between concrete and usually needed on vertical or overhead
cultural buildings or bulk bin pads.
wire mesh depends on the expected horizontal surfaces to add strength
The possible savings in initial con-
life of the structure. Though wire mesh and provide the necessary backing.
struction may be quickly offset by the
costs considerably less than concrete, Rodents can claw and gnaw at con-
costs of rodent damage and control
its usefulness generally lasts only 5 to crete and Portland cement until it is
measures.
10 years. fully cured, so the use of 1/2-inch (1.3-
cm) hardware cloth laid in the top 1/4
Repair cracks in foundations and
inch (0.6 cm) of the repair area may be
floors with concrete or masonry grout.
necessary if rats are currently using the
There are numerous quick-setting
repair area as an entry point. Other-
types of products, such as Fix-all® or
wise, provide an effective temporary
Quick-Fix®, which are for interior use,
rodent-proof protective overlay until
and Concrete Patch®, Rockite®, or
the concrete is fully cured. Caution:
Pour Stone® for interior or exterior use
Metal products placed within 1 inch
(previously illustrated in figure 10).
Ground level (2.5 cm) of a concrete surface will oxi-
The four last-mentioned products are
dize and corrode and may discolor the
specifically designed for repairs and
concrete.
have quick setting, good adhesion, and
nonshrinking properties which make If rats have gained access to crawl
2' min. them ideal for exclusion work. Each, spaces under building floors, prevent
however, is made for a specific appli- them from getting into walls by using
1' min. cation: Pour Stone® and Rockite® are such modifications as illustrated in
designed to be easily poured into figure 16.
4" min.
cracks in floors or into holes to anchor Maintaining a clean, 3-foot-wide (1-m)
bolts or machinery, and set hard in 15 weed-free area around building foun-
minutes. Concrete Patch® is a mortar- dations, concrete slabs, and footings
Fig. 14. A 1-foot horizontal footing extension to type material for repairing masonry often discourages rodents from bur-
deflect burrowing rodents. surfaces and has a vinyl polymer to rowing as well as eliminates a food

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 c
b
a

1/4" mesh

Fig. 16. Method of excluding rats from double walls. In old

buildings, galvanized sheet metal (a) may be cut to fit and Fig. 17. Perimeter insulation placed on the outside of a foundation,
nailed into place between studs, joists, floor, and sill; in curtain, or stem wall must be protected to prevent rodent damage.
buildings under construction, noncombustible stops of good Protection is required along the top and to a depth of at least 36
quality concrete (b) or bricks (c) are recommended. inches below the soil surface.

source and attractive harborage. stock facilities should have flat bot- crete. Insulation placed on the outside
Where erosion of bare soil is likely, this toms and be designed and installed so of a foundation wall requires protec-
buffer can be maintained by regular, that rodents cannot find shelter tive-covering material. Suitable materi-
close mowing of vegetation or by in- beneath or behind them. Give special als include cement board, high density
stalling heavy gravel. To discourage attention to storage rooms, closets, fiberglass-reinforced plastics, trow-
burrowing, install a strip of 1-inch-di- feed storage, or other areas where con- eled-on coatings such as Block Bond®,
ameter (2.5-cm) or larger gravel laid in struction techniques may allow or Surewall®. In such situations, metal
a band at least 2 feet (60 cm) wide and rodents access to walls, floor spaces, or flashing should be used to prevent the
1/2 foot (15 cm) deep. attics. Stacks of wood and other stored potential for entry routes for subter-
items should be 18 inches (46 cm) ranean termites. Several companies
Interior Rodent-Proofing. When
above the floor and 18 to 24 inches (46 now manufacture special coatings for
rats or mice are present in a building,
to 61 cm) away from walls to allow for exterior perimeter insulation. Exam-
attention must be given to interior as
proper cleaning and inspection. Ware- ples include DuraWallTM and Secure-
well as exterior rodent-proofing to
house stock should always be stacked wallTM.
remove all sources of shelter. A combi-
off the floor on pallets and away from
nation of actions is required in such Extend protective cover materials at
walls, and it should be rotated often to
instances, as no single effort is likely to least 36 inches (91 cm) below finished
prevent development of infestations in
yield the desired result. grade. If the protective layer ends less
undisturbed areas.
than 36 inches (91 cm) below grade,
Concrete floors are preferred to
Rodents often gnaw into wall materi- add a horizontal ledge that extends
wooden floors. An attempt should be
als at corners or where joints in con- outward at least 1 foot (30 cm). All top
made to seal off rodents. Use traps to
struction materials provide an edge. edges and corners must also be pro-
remove the rodents, or place poison
Poor construction techniques may tected with a close-fitting heavy-gauge
bait packets through openings in the
allow rodents to gain access through metal flashing (Fig. 17).
floor or wall and then seal the open-
materials that are otherwise consid-
ings with galvanized metal or hard- Drains and Pipes. Both rats and
ered rodent-proof.
ware cloth and patching plaster as mice use drainage pipes or sewage
previously discussed. Promptly treat Perimeter insulation is a necessary part systems as routes to enter buildings.
new openings as they are found. In of energy-efficient construction. Plac- Equip floor drains with metal grates
occupied buildings, always trap the ing insulation on the exterior of foun- held firmly in place. Grate openings
rodents before sealing interior walls to dation walls subjects it to mechanical should not exceed 1/4 inch (0.6 cm).
avoid odors, stains, and an influx of damage as well as infestation and Maintain 1/2-inch (1.3-cm) hardware
insects that feed on decaying rodent destruction by rodents. To prevent cloth over sewer roof vents in rat-in-
carcasses. damage to perimeter insulation, use fested areas. If the sewer system is
sandwich wall construction in which known to be rat-infested, a “Rat
Eliminate rodent hiding places beneath
the insulation is placed within the con- Guard” one way flap valve may be
and behind equipment. Feeders in live-

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 18"

Fig. 19. Shield on manure discharge pipe to prevent access by rodents to open pipe.

Fig. 18. “Rat Guard” one-way flap valve is

available for placement in toilets where the when water or manure flows out but
sewer system is known to be rat-infested. will fall back into place when the flow
stops in a manner similar to a tide gate
placed in toilets (Fig. 18). Sewer later- used on drains in coastal areas. The
als should be checked for openings potential for such covers to freeze
that could allow rodent entry. Smoke- shut, however, can be a drawback. A
producing leak detectors are often better method is to extend discharge
used by agencies checking sewer lines pipes far enough over the bank or into
for leaks or openings. If openings are the lagoon to prevent rodents from
detected, replace the pipe or wrap the jumping or crawling into the open end.
pipe break with 1/4-inch (0.6-cm) Install rodent shields to prevent
hardware cloth and use concrete rodents from gaining access (Fig. 19).
patching material to seal the area. Rain
Always cap pump-out ports when
gutter downspouts are often used by
under-building manure storages are
rats to gain access to roofs. It may be
not in use. Left open, they allow
possible to screen over openings at the
rodents easy entry.
base of downspouts with 1/2-inch
(0.6-cm) hardware cloth or a grate, but Physical Barriers/Guards. To pre-
this will require continued mainte- vent rodents from climbing or travel- Fig. 20. Sheet metal band attached to outside
nance to remove accumulated debris, ing along a particular route, install walls to prevent rodent climbing. Band should
particularly where leaves and small guards made of sheet metal or similar be 14 to 18 inches wide and 30 inches above
where a rodent can jump from.
sticks are washed from roofs into the materials (Table 1). Guards must be
gutter system. Flap valves have been wide enough and positioned to keep a building essentially rodent-proof.
used here too—swinging shut except rodents from reaching their outer mar- These modifications are essential on
when water is flowing. Openings to gins by climbing or jumping. Dock ar- pumping plants, water treatment fa-
floor or driveway drains should have eas may need guards to keep rodents cilities, power stations, and communi-
covers. Gutter and other drain covers from jumping or climbing from foun- cations facilities. They have also been
must be kept clean of debris to prevent dations, pipes, steps, or rough exterior used to make corn cribs, barns, and
water backup. wall surfaces, and from infesting other older buildings in current use
trucks or rail cars transporting goods. rat- and mouse-proof.
Manure management systems in live-
stock facilities may be of a type that A sheet metal band attached to a wall Guards on walls should be at least 36
periodically drains manure or water will prevent rodents from climbing. inches (91 cm) above ground or floor
from the building to a lagoon or other Rodent guards should be at least 14 level. Flat guards have been used to
storage area. In such cases, a “floating” inches (36 cm) but preferably 18 inches prevent rodents from traveling along
metal cover or check valve-style clo- (46 cm) wide (Fig. 20). Inside build- horizontal or vertical pipes or electric
sure at the open end of the discharge ings, such guards can prevent rats and wires (Fig. 21). Cones or discs act as
pipe, with a hinge at its upper edge, mice from climbing at corners. Used in rodent guards on suspended cables,
can be effective. The hinge must oper- combination with hardware cloth or rain gutter downspouts, conduit,
ate easily so that the cover will open other suitable material, they can make ropes, augers, or pipes (Fig. 22). With

B-146
 some ingenuity, you can design rodent
guards to fit any given situation. Free-
hanging guards are easily damaged.
Circular guards must extend out 18
inches (46 cm) around the line they
guard. They are constructed of 24-
gauge metal and anchored in place by
12" min. one or more arms on the side opposite
to that accessible to rats. Cone-shaped
circular guards prevent rats from
climbing vertical pipes, pilings, and
trees. Shields or wire guards made of
1/4-inch (0.6-cm) wire mesh are useful
in excluding rodents from the interior
36" min. of conveyor belts, underground power
and communications conduit, feed au-
gers, fan housings, and similar open-
ings.
Fig. 21. Guards of various designs can prevent rodents from climbing along wires or pipes.
Food Handling and Storage
Areas. Even when all of the holes are
plugged, rodents seem to find a way
into food storage and handling areas.
Sometimes rodents come in with sup-
plies, or they run in through open
doors or windows. Often, one or more
openings remain undetected. These
hidden holes are often below sinks,
behind equipment, in false or sus-
pended ceilings, and behind or under
18" cupboards. Once in an environment
having all the basic needs, rodents
quickly establish viable populations.
The solution is to eliminate harborage
12" and exclude rodents from food and
water sources inside the building.
All equipment such as large refrigera-
tors, freezers, counters, dishwashers,
12"
and sanitizers should be raised and
easily movable, enabling cleaning
underneath and behind them. Insu-
lated walls and closed areas should be
tightly closed off to avoid use as har-
borage. Openings are commonly seen
in new stainless-steel work counters in
supports under the work surface, or in
areas provided for drains. Drains
should be easy to clean but should
have rodent-proof covers.
Store food products in rodent-proof
36"
enclosures or on shelving at least 18
inches (46 cm), but preferably 30
inches (76 cm) or more, above the
floor. Tubular supports (legs) for
shelving should be a minimum of 4
Fig. 22. Guards can be used to prevent rats from climbing augers, pipes, or wires leading to inches (10 cm) in diameter to prevent
buildings. Footings or foundations for grain bins should extend into the ground to prevent rat rats from shinnying up from the floor.
burrowing.

B-147
 Keep all damaged goods and returns, Proper storage and disposal of house- decorative band 14 to 18 inches (35 to
as well as refuse, in a separate rodent- hold garbage and dead animals is a 46 cm) wide around the structure
proof room. Loading docks should be very important part of rat control. above the rodent access height, in or-
very tightly rodent-proofed and only Bulk dumpsters are often left with the der to prevent rodents from climbing
open during daylight hours. All out- tops open, or the tops are badly bent, up exterior walls. Tightly rodent-
side doors should be self-closing, have allowing rodent entry. Constant vigi- proof sewer, electrical, communica-
heavy kickplates, and be checked lance and calls to the refuse company tion, water, and natural gas services,
periodically for excessive gaps. In should correct these situations. Seal as well as exterior doors and windows.
warehouses and storage situations, bulk trash compactors from rodents. Loading docks should have exclusion
centralize highly susceptible foodstuffs Spilled refuse and juices from crushed devices, automatic door-closing
into areas that can be securely rodent- contents often create rodent problems devices, and good construction materi-
proofed and closely monitored. These under and behind compactors and als that preclude rodent climbing and
areas should also have rodent bait sta- bulk dumpsters. Clean these areas of- entry. Stairs to the dock area should
tions and multiple-capture mouse ten and install rodent screening in con- have a tight-fitting personnel door far
traps permanently installed around the tainer drains. enough from the dock that rodents
perimeter. cannot jump from stairs to the dock.
Dock bumper pads should be high
Livestock Feed Bunks and Bins. Rodent-Proof Building enough (30 to 36 inches; [76 to 92 cm])
Rats typically burrow and nest under
Design Considerations to avoid being used as steps by
feed bunks that are placed directly on
rodents.
the ground or near ground level. Prop-
The degree of a structure’s susceptibil-
erly designed concrete bunks that sit Another consideration is the building’s
ity to rodent infestation depends on
tightly on a concrete base eliminate interior design and intended use.
several considerations that the archi-
rodent habitat. Though cattle traffic Office buildings with tight-fitting inte-
tect, engineer, builder, and end-user
may discourage burrowing under the rior doors, tightly sealed wall voids
should keep foremost in mind prior to
concrete slab, a foundation may be and utility access areas, and no food or
and during construction. All struc-
needed to prevent burrowing around water sources are less attractive to
tures, but particularly those intended
the sides of the slab that do not receive rodents than food handling facilities,
for human occupancy, should be built
heavy cattle use. Concrete slabs on apartments, hospitals, and ware-
to be as rodent-proof as possible.
which feed bins are placed should houses. Pallets commonly used in
have foundations extending 36 inches One consideration is the current and warehouses provide good harborage
(91 cm) into the soil at the outer edge historical level of rodent problems in for rodents and should be rotated
to prevent rats from burrowing under the general area of the construction regularly. Coolers and other food stor-
the slab. Installing heavy gravel and site. A project that is in an inner-city age areas should be centrally located
maintaining a clean, weed-free zone redevelopment area with a known his- and, if possible, in sealed rooms, sepa-
around the perimeter of the slab will tory of rodent problems warrants rate from other warehouse goods. This
also discourage rat burrowing and more attention to rodent exclusion confines rodent exclusion to a small
permit easier detection of rat activity. than a project in a new urban fringe area and provides for better observa-
area with little or no history of prob- tion if problems arise. Even the clutter
Feed and Refuse Storage. Live-
lems. Rodent control should be consid- of machinery, parts, and nonfood
stock or pet feed and edible refuse
ered during the preconstruction and stored goods may attract rodents as
attract rodents and are a common food
construction phases. Infestations at harborage if food and water are
source. Always store these materials in
these times are common and some- nearby.
metal containers with tight-fitting lids.
times even include larger animals such
Food is often available to rodents Containers for refuse disposal, includ-
as skunks and opossums. Contracts
around homes, kennels, and poultry ing bulk dumpsters, should have tight
should require that contractors main-
and livestock feed storage areas lids. They should be kept clean and
tain a clean and debris-free site.
because feed is kept in plastic or wood tightly sealed.
storage bins or hoppers. These storage If the area is known to have heavy rat
Earthquake safety joints can provide a
containers are frequently open at the and/or mouse problems, use exterior
route from the basement to the top
top, or may be gnawed through the surface materials that have a hard,
floor of a building. Use 1/4-inch (0.6-
sides. Check nonmetal hoppers fre- smooth surface on at least the lower
cm) woven/welded hardware cloth
quently for holes and, when necessary, levels that will be subject to contact
between floors in these joints to effec-
repair with sheet metal. Avoid the use with the ground, ornamental plant-
tively stop rodent travel. Urethane
of self-feeders for pets. Feed pets only ings, fences, and other potential areas
foam caulk or sheet metal screws have
as much as they will consume at one of rodent harborage. A viable alterna-
been used to hold the hardware cloth
time and only during daylight hours. tive is to utilize a smooth-surfaced
in place without interfering with the

B-148
 Masonite, board and batt construction,
stucco, or corrugated metal siding.
Installation of fireplaces, especially
zero clearance sheet metal types, poses
a challenge when sealing the wall void
created around and above the firebox
to the roof. This area must be solidly
sheeted with sheet rock or dry wall,
and a metal collar called a draft stop
must be used at the ceiling and roof
lines. When tightly fitted, it serves to
prevent rodent movement. It is also
imperative that good, tight Z-bar and
roof-to-wall pan flashing is properly
installed around the outside of the
chimney. A metal cap and secure
heavy mesh screen should be installed
to prevent bird or small mammal entry
(Fig. 23). There are many types of Fig. 25. “Bird stop” shaped metal for tile roofs
Fig. 23. Chimney with metal stack, heavy screen
to prevent rodent and bird entry.
(animal excluder and spark arrestor), and tight metal flashing. The Z-bar flashing is in-
roof to wall and Z-bar flashing joints. stalled so that it is under the felt paper
and then bends outward to overlap the
roof-to-wall flashing that rests against
the roof and wall in an L shape (Fig.
Stucco
Stucco 24).
Roofs and eaves often have openings
Felt
Felt
large enough for raccoons and
pigeons, as well as for small rodents to
enter. Many of these problems in
single-family residences and apart-
ments seem to occur where roof lines
Z-bar
Z-bar
change angles or elevations, leaving an
area under the eaves that is hard to fit
with siding. Problems are especially
Roof
Roofto
towall
wallpan
pan
common where the proper roof-to-
wall and Z-bar flashing are not tightly
cut and installed during initial con-
struction. Shingle or tile roofs are
Roof
Roof sometimes a problem when they butt Fig. 26. A side wall exhaust vent with 1/4-inch
Fig. 24. Z-bar and roof-to-wall pan flashing,
up against a wall or around roof vents hardware cloth.
when properly installed, prevent rodent entry. and at roof edges. Tile and shingles are
less of a problem if solid sheathing building industry has had a problem
underlies the roofing material and getting good-quality vents with strong
purpose of the safety joints. Install
adjacent walls have properly installed 1/4 inch galvanized hardware cloth
adjustable metal collars around utility
metal flashing. Tile on roofs must be properly fastened in place. Many
pipes or other types of openings. They
well placed to avoid gaps and the ends manufacturers are using nongalvan-
are available through building supply
should all be sealed with preshaped ized hardware cloth or light screen
stores or can be easily cut from 24-
metal (commonly called “bird stop,” wire, and others are simply shaping
gauge (or heavier) galvanized sheet
Fig. 25) or tile fillers. All other gaps the wire into place with no fastening
metal. Double walls can best be pro-
should be filled with concrete grout. method used or using light spot-weld-
tected near the foundation or floor
area with galvanized sheet metal, Vents must have openings of 1/4 x 1/4 ing spaced too far apart, allowing the
hardware cloth, concrete, or other inch (0.6 x 0.6 cm) or less to prevent screen to be pushed away from the
methods, as previously discussed. Use house mouse entry (Fig. 26). There are housing of the vent.
heavy (24-gauge or better) galvanized many different types of vents for spe- Openings larger than 1/4 inch x 1/4
flashing, called “screed,” between the cialized placement. They include gable inch (0.6 x 0.6 cm) can be used if air
siding and foundation to close any vents, exhaust vents, roof vents, foun- flow is inhibited, but the vent should
openings created by warped wood or dation vents, and many others. The be located to prevent exposure to

B-149
 Poorly installed roof jacks are a com- population pressure. The panel door
mon entry point for rodents. Tile and should have tamper-resistant screws,
shake shingle roofs require the use of bolts, or locks and have two 2 1/2- x 2
double jacks, one rigid and the other 1/2-inch (6.4- x 6.4-cm) openings at
often soft or flexible. The solid jack is ground level to allow entry by rats and
installed over one layer of roofing felt mice.
and the sheeting or other substrate,
For additional information on the con-
and an overlapping piece of felt is then
trol of commensal rodents, see the
layered over the jack. The second jack
chapters House Mice, Norway Rats,
is placed between the layers of roofing
and Roof Rats.
(tile or shingles, Fig. 27). When rigid
metal is used for the upper (second)
jack, gaps left between the tile and the Acknowledgments
metal should be grouted to prevent
rodent or bird entry or nesting. Figures 1a, 2, 4a, b, and c, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12, 18, 20,
23, 25, 26, and 27 by Rex O. Baker.
Permanent Bait/Census Stations.
Figure 1b by Robert M. Timm.
Another method that can be used to
prevent the build-up of rodent popula- Figures 3, 7, 14, 15, 17, 19, 22, and 24 by
Fig. 27. Soft (upper) roof jack under tile. Frances I. Gould, David Thornhill and
tions is the installation of permanent
Clint Chapman.
rodent “service access areas” around
rodents. This can easily be accom- the exterior of buildings. These cup- Figures 11, 13, 16, and 21 adapted by Frances I.
plished on roofs with smooth sheet Guld and David Thornhill from Pratt, H.D.,
board-type areas can be built at
B. F. Bjornson, and K. S. Littig. 1977. Control
metal raised 40 inches (1 m) or higher, ground level into walls or foundations of domestic rats and mice. Publ. Health Serv.
constructed in a manner to avoid near loading docks, trash areas, near US Dep. Health, Educ. Welfare, Pub. No.
rough edge ribs or other surfaces that utility service panels, corners, or rear (CDC) 77-841. 47 pp.
rodents can climb. Place vents on the alleys. The stations should be large
sides of buildings at least 40 inches enough to contain an automatic
(1 m) above the ground level, fences, multiple-capture mouse trap (Ketch-
or shrubs. Use a smooth surface AllTM or Tin CatTM) and a bait station Editors
around the vent if the wall material containing toxic baits. Placebo baits Scott E. Hygnstrom
Robert M. Timm
has a rough texture. can be used to monitor rodent Gary E. Larson

B-150