How to Identify and Seal Rodent Entry Points in Your Iowa Home
At Janssen Pest Solutions, we know firsthand how sneaky rodents can be. Whether you’re in Des Moines, Ankeny, Ames, Waukee, or anywhere in Central Iowa, mice and rats are always looking for a warm, quiet place to nest—and even the smallest gaps in your home can invite them in. That’s why locating and sealing entry points is one of the most effective ways to prevent a rodent infestation.
Here’s how you can find and seal common rodent access points:
Under Sinks
Start by checking beneath all sinks in your home—kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and utility rooms. Focus on where plumbing comes through the wall or cabinets. If you see gaps larger than ¼ inch (about the width of a pencil), it’s big enough for a mouse to squeeze through. Seal these spaces with materials like Xcluder® Fill Fabric, a professional-grade solution we recommend and use ourselves.
Along Baseboards and Floor Edges
Rodents follow walls as they travel. Check for cracks, loose trim, or gaps along baseboards. Even tiny holes can be entry points.
Around Windows and Doors
Inspect the seals and frames around windows and all exterior doors—including garage doors. If light or air can get through, so can a mouse. Install weather stripping and door sweeps as needed.
In the Attic
Rodents are expert climbers. Look around soffits, vents, and gable ends for possible access. Also check insulation and wiring for signs of gnawing.
In the Basement or Crawlspace
Your home’s lower levels are popular nesting spots. Look for cracks in the walls, open vents, or gaps near water pipes and electrical conduits.
Around the Foundation
Rodents will exploit any weakness at ground level. Walk around the exterior of your home and seal any cracks or holes, especially near corners and utility lines.
Roof and Utility Lines
Mice and rats can travel across electrical wires, vines, or branches, jumping from trees or utility poles to your roof. Make sure trees are trimmed back and inspect for access near roof vents and chimneys.
Garage
Check garage door seals, especially in the corners. Rodents often sneak in through small gaps under doors and nest behind stored items.
Rodent Facts to Keep in Mind
- Mice can fit through a hole as small as ¼ inch—roughly the size of a pencil.
- Rats can get through openings as small as ¾ inch—about the size of a penny.
- Both can climb vertical surfaces like brick, wood, plaster, and metal pipes.
- They can run along horizontal wires and ropes, even jumping between rooftops.
Let Janssen Help You Seal the Deal
Identifying entry points is step one. Sealing them correctly is what keeps the rodents out for good. At Janssen Pest Solutions, we’ve helped families across Central Iowa stay rodent-free for over 35 years with professional inspections, targeted exclusion work, and safe, reliable rodent control.
Need help protecting your home? Call us today for a free estimate or schedule a rodent inspection. We’ll help you close every gap—and keep the pests out where they belong.