What material is recommended to seal most openings to prevent entry by rodents and squirrels?

• A. Heavy gauge 1/2-inch hardware cloth or sheet metal
• B. Plastic sheeting
• C. Vinyl mesh
• D. Chicken wire mesh

Answer: (A)

Blocking rodent and squirrel entry relies on using a barrier that is both rigid and has openings small enough to prevent passage. Heavy gauge hardware cloth or sheet metal provides a durable, chew-resistant shield with openings of 1/2 inch, which are small enough to stop the animals from squeezing through while still allowing ventilation and drainage. Other options—plastic sheeting, vinyl mesh, or chicken wire—are more prone to tearing, chewing, or bending, and they often have larger gaps that pests can exploit. Using metal mesh or sheet metal creates the most reliable seal for preventing entry.