There is no denying that construction and renovation work is messy.
Even the tidiest tradesmen in the world can’t fight against all that dust and dirt.
That’s why post-construction cleaning services are so important — requiring specialist cleaning equipment and techniques to get properties back to looking impeccable in no time.
At Clear Choice, we’re experts in post-construction cleaning and know exactly what is involved in the process. That’s why we want to share our cleaning tips with you in the below post, supporting you in the best ways to clean after construction.
Post-construction cleaning tips
It’s a great day when all construction and renovation work is complete.
However, the mess left behind can often feel like a daunting task to tackle alone.
So, the question beckons, should you do it yourself or bring in the experts?
Post-construction cleaning is similar to regular cleaning, i.e., dusting, vacuuming, etc.
However, post-construction cleaning is much more intensive and, in many instances, will require the use of specialist tools and equipment, for example, wet and dry vacuums, commercial floor polishers, etc.
Of course, these items are available to rent, but the cost of this will soon start to add up and these costs matched with your labour time, could mean it is more cost-effective to call in the professionals.
A professional post-construction cleaning team will be able to provide you with:
Peace of mind – all safety aspects will be considered as post-construction hazards are their speciality, i.e., dealing with stray nails, shards of glass, an unprecedented amount of dust, etc. They will also know what PPE to wear to keep themselves and others safe.
Efficient processes – professional cleaners can be much more effective and efficient in post-construction cleaning as they are trained in the best methods and techniques. They know the right tools and equipment to use for the job, and they also know to include the places that are often forgotten about or overlooked.
Cost savings – cleaning materials, tools, equipment rental, and more all cost money, and these costs can soon start to build. However, a professional team will always come equipped and ready to tackle any job, no matter how big or complex.
Construction cleaning DIY is always an option, but we would advise anyone thinking of this to factor in your time and the costs associated with ensuring you have everything you need to get the job done.
Post-construction cleaning equipment
Some items you will need include:
- Soft-bristled brush
- Dustpan and brush
- Mop and bucket
- Cleaning cloths
- Dusters
- Sponges
- Upholstery tools
- Masking tape
- All-purpose cleaner
- White vinegar
- Window cleaning solution
- Cold and warm water
- Bin bags
- High-powered vacuum (possibly a wet and dry vacuum)
- Carpet cleaner
- Floor polisher
- Power washer
- Stepladders
- Putty knives
- Safety signs (if appropriate)
- Hard hats (if applicable)
- A range of cleaning chemicals
The personal protective equipment you should have on hand for safety includes:
- Suitable shoes
- Rubber gloves
- Dust masks that cover both your nose and mouth
- Appropriate eye protection
Getting to work
Clean-up after construction should be organised logically to make the cleaning process more efficient.
Ideally, you should start your cleaning from the furthest point from the front door, working up to down and in to out.
Before you begin, inspect all your floors, checking for any damage before you start work cleaning and polishing these.
You should also recheck walls and benches for any damage that might need repairing or repainting before you get to work cleaning.
Start with a rough clean.
What we mean by this is to start by removing all major sources of dirt and debris—removing any leftover rubbish, nails from pieces of wood, etc. Next, tackle any stains and paint splashes, wipe down windows and glass doors, remove any stickers, wash door frames and walls, and remember to sweep the ceilings and walls to remove as much dust as possible and any loose debris.
Open windows to let out as much dust and fumes as possible. Good ventilation is key.
Create an airflow that removes dust, reduces bad odours, and avoids the build-up of cleaning chemical smells and more.
Finally, sweep and vacuum the floors for the first time.
Thorough, deeper, clean.
This is the second cleaning pass over your home, which is much more effective as the dust begins to settle.
Make sure to clean all kitchens and bathrooms thoroughly. Cleaning windows, washing walls, cabinets, surfaces, benches, dust light fittings, fixtures, vacuuming, washing carpets, and cleaning floors (make sure to vacuum any chairs and sofas before you start on your carpets).
Dust all surfaces with a microfibre cloth (dust clings to these), dusting in between blinds, across door frame tops, shelving units – everywhere!
We’d advise using an industrial carpet cleaner to remove all grounded dirt and other objects from carpets and rugs, following a process of vacuuming, shampooing, and then steam cleaning, letting all carpets dry before moving to the next stage.
For windows, you should use heavy-duty cleaning products initially, starting at the top and working your way down. Then, to finish, use a dry cloth and polish.
Touch up clean.
As the dust continues to settle, even after the deep clean, it’s important to carry out a touch up clean to remove the remainder of the dust, using a damp cloth to wipe down all surfaces and clean all windows (wash the cloth between each pass and rinse with clean water).
Make sure to let areas dry thoroughly, and use a vacuum with a small brush attachment to remove any remaining dust from skirting boards, lights, etc.
Remember, dust gets everywhere, so cleaning inside your cabinets and cupboards will also be required.
Don’t forget….
…to clean your driveway and front garden. First impressions count, and often after renovation work, it is not just the inside of your home that needs cleaning and tidying.
Make sure to sweep away any debris and power wash driveways etc.
How to clean after construction
Post-construction cleaning is not for the faint-hearted and if it all seems a little bit too much, let us help.
At Clear Choice, we want you to reclaim your home by cleaning your property using specialist cleaning techniques and equipment, call us today on 01132 711 432 and let us take care of all your cleaning needs.
