This is where the excitement ends, and the dust and debris from construction crews begin to cause stress as to why your new home isn’t ready to be lived in.
This is why post-construction cleaning is essential so your new space is ready for occupation.
This detailed guide provides a comprehensive checklist to help you tackle the task efficiently.
Start with Safety Precautions
First of all, before you start cleaning, you should put on your safety gear.
Wear your gloves, mask, and safety goggles to keep the dust and sharp debris from harming you.
Make sure the home is well-ventilated to avoid breathing in harmful particles.
Also, walk through the space and pick up any leftover construction materials or hazardous items that must be disposed of properly.
Gather the Right Cleaning Supplies
You are going to need the right cleaning supplies for the job. Some of the essential items include:
- Heavy-duty garbage bags for waste disposal
- Microfiber cloths for dusting
- A vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter
- Mop and bucket for floors
- Glass cleaner for windows and mirrors
- Multi-surface cleaner for walls and baseboards
- Scrapers for removing paint splatters or dried adhesive
Remove Large Debris First
Begin by picking up large debris, such as wood scraps, nails, and packaging materials.
Use a broom and dustpan for the visible particles, and make sure all surfaces are clear of debris before moving on to the next cleaning job.
Dusting from Top to Bottom
Since construction dust settles everywhere, cleaning from top to bottom is best so you won’t have to clean an area twice.
Begin with the ceiling corners, light fixtures, and vents, then work your way down to the walls and furniture.
A damp microfiber cloth or an electrostatic duster is best for picking up dust without spreading it around.
Clean Windows and Mirrors
Many windows and mirrors are covered in dust and grime during construction.
Wipe down the frames and sills, then use a streak-free glass cleaner on the panes.
As for the stubborn adhesive or paint marks, a razor scraper may be helpful, but be careful not to scratch.
Scrub Walls and Baseboards
Walls and baseboards are covered with dust that makes the paint finish look dull.
Use a damp cloth or a light cleaner that is safe for the paint to clean the walls.
Pay particular attention to the corners and the areas near the light switches.
Baseboards can be cleaned with a sponge and a mild detergent to restore shine.
Vacuum Carpets and Rugs
New construction often has fine dust embedded in the carpets and rugs.
Choose a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to effectively clean these surfaces.
If the debris is particularly stubborn, consider using a carpet cleaner or having a professional service come and do it.
Mop Hard Floors
Most hardwood, tile, or laminate flooring requires extra attention.
Begin by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove debris, then mop it with an appropriate floor cleaner.
Do not overwet wooden floors as this can damage them.
Make sure the floor dries completely to avoid streaks or residue.
Pay Attention to Kitchen and Bathroom Fixtures
These areas, particularly the kitchen and bathroom, tend to have construction dust in the crevices and surfaces.
In the Kitchen: Wipe down the countertops, cabinets, and appliances. Clean inside the drawers and shelves to remove dust in them before replacing items.
In the Bathroom: Scrub the sinks, tubs, and toilets. Polish faucets and fixtures to remove water spots or smudges.
Inspect and Clean Air Vents
Air vents and ducts are big accumulators of dust during the construction process.
Take out the vent covers and wash them with soap and water.
If the dust has entered the ducts, you should call a professional to come and clean the system.
Tackle Light Fixtures and Fans
Dust and debris tend to settle on light fixtures and ceiling fans.
To clear these areas, use a ladder to reach these areas and wipe them down with a damp cloth.
If a bulb has been covered in construction debris, replace it for a brighter, cleaner home.
Clean Doors and Door Frames
Doors and their frames are often forgotten when it comes to post-construction cleaning.
Use a soft cloth and all-purpose cleaner to get rid of the dust and the fingerprints.
Pay particular attention to the door hinges and handles because they can get greasy or grime-covered.
Sanitize Electrical Outlets and Switches
Dust tends to settle in small paces like electrical outlets and switches.
Clean these areas using a dry cloth or a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
It’s best not to use too much moisture so as not to create electrical hazards.
Polish Metal Surfaces
Some of the metal hardware, including doorknobs, railings, and kitchen handles, may appear dull after construction.
Use metal polish or a soft cloth to restore the shine, just make sure to check for any adhesive or paint marks and remove them carefully.
Take Care of the Exterior
If the exterior of your home was affected in the construction process, then it should also be cleaned.
Sweep the porches, wipe down the outdoor furniture, and clean the windows from the outside.
It is also essential to clear the gutters and to check the landscaping for any debris left behind.
Hire a Professional Cleaning Service
If you want professional results without the hassle of doing it yourself, consider hiring a reliable cleaning service for post-construction cleaning.
Professionals have the tools and expertise to make your home spotless and ready for move-in.
When looking for a house cleaning service, consider NW Maids.
We are an experienced team that can easily handle post-construction cleaning, giving you peace of mind as you move into your new home.
Final Walkthrough
After the cleaning is done, do a final walkthrough of the house. Check out all the areas to make sure that nothing has been missed.
Pay attention to the little things like smudged windows, hidden dust, or overlooked corners.
One last look around will put your mind at ease, knowing that your home is ready for its grand debut.
Post-construction cleaning is a big step from a building site to a comfortable home.
Following this checklist, you can enjoy a spotless and welcoming space.
If the task seems too much, don’t hesitate to call professional help like NW Maids to make your new home shine.
Related Posts:
- What is Involved in Post-Construction Cleaning?
- Walkthrough Tips for Accurate Post-Construction Cleaning Bids
- Post-Construction Cleaning Made Easy: DIY Guide
- The Only Post-Construction Cleaning Checklist You’ll Need
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