How Pest-Made Holes Let in Cold Air or Drafts

 

Yes, pest-made holes in homes absolutely can let in cold air and drafts. When pests such as mice, rats, squirrels, insects, or birds chew, burrow, or peck their way into a building, they create openings in walls, floors, ceilings, attics, rooflines, foundations, and around windows or doors. These openings—regardless of their size—act as entry points for outside air to come indoors, which can lead to uncomfortable drafts and a colder home environment, especially in the cooler months.

 

Why These Holes Cause Drafts

 

A home is built to keep outside air out and maintain stable indoor temperatures. Insulation, caulking, weather-stripping, and sealed walls work together like a blanket to keep the inside warm in winter and cool in summer. When pests create holes or gaps:

• They “break the seal,” allowing cold air currents to flow straight into living spaces through walls, floors, or ceilings.
• The air that sneaks in is not controlled or filtered, so it can feel much colder (or, in the summer, hotter) than your desired indoor temperature.
• Even very small holes—mice can squeeze through a space as small as a dime—can bring in significant drafts.
• If the holes are in hidden places like attics or crawl spaces, the cold air can travel through wall cavities and vents, spreading the chill to several rooms.

 

What This Means for Your Comfort and Energy Bills

 

When cold air comes in through pest-made holes, several problems can arise:

• Uncomfortable Rooms: Certain rooms may always feel chilly, no matter how high the heat is set.
• Uneven Heating: Drafts can make it difficult for your heating system to maintain a consistent temperature throughout your house.
• Higher Utility Bills: Your heating system must work harder to keep up, burning more energy and raising your gas or electric bills.
• Potential for Moisture: Cold, damp outdoor air can bring in moisture, leading to condensation, mold, or water damage inside walls and ceilings.

 

How to Identify Cold-Air Leaks From Pests

 

Look for signs like:

• Feeling a cold draft near baseboards, windows, ceilings, or outlets
• Noticing rodent or insect droppings, gnaw marks, or nesting materials near suspected entry points
• Seeing sunlight or outdoor light through gaps or holes around pipes, attic vents, foundation walls, or underneath doors
• Unusual cold spots—even if they aren’t directly next to a window or door

 

What to Do About Pest-Made Air Leaks

 

Effective solutions involve:

• Inspecting your home’s exterior and interior carefully for any visible holes, chew marks, or loose building materials
• Sealing every entry point with appropriate materials: expanding foam, steel wool (for rodents), caulk, or mesh screens—making sure the repair materials match the pest
• Replacing or repairing damaged insulation around affected areas
• Working with a pest control professional to address the underlying pest problem and prevent reinfestation
• Regular maintenance and checking vulnerable spots, especially after seasons when pests are most active (like fall and spring)

 

Summary

 

Any holes in your home made by pests will let in cold air or drafts—often causing discomfort, wasted energy, moisture issues, and even higher bills. Identifying, sealing, and repairing these holes, and dealing with the pests themselves, is key to keeping your home warm, safe, and energy efficient.