Post-Construction Cleaning Made Easy: DIY Guide

Construction projects can create a significant mess with dust, debris, and other building materials that need cleaning.

If you are to clean up after a construction or renovation, this list will help you do that.

This is a simple and effective structure that will help you work through each of the steps to achieve a clean space.

The Ultimate DIY Construction Cleaning Checklist

Gather Essential Cleaning Tools

It is always essential to ensure that you have everything needed before starting the cleaning process. This way, you will save a lot of time and energy. Key items include:

  • Broom and dustpan
  • Vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter
  • Microfiber cloths
  • All-purpose cleaner
  • Glass cleaner
  • Scrubbing brushes
  • Rubber gloves
  • Trash bags and bins
  • Mop and bucket

The Ultimate DIY Construction Cleaning Checklist

The Detailed DIY Construction Cleaning Checklist

1. Start With Trash Removal

The first step is always to clear the area of large debris. First, pick up all the construction debris, including the packaging, extra materials, and other items destroyed during the construction.

  • Larger debris should be swept up with a broom and dustpan.
  • All construction materials, such as scrap wood, nails, and plastics, should be in bags.
  • Get rid of waste in a disposal truck or a location that has been set aside for disposal of waste.

2. Dust Surfaces and Walls

Construction dust is not something that will land only on tables; it will also find its way to walls and even ceilings. Therefore, you must wipe off all the surfaces to ensure your house is as clean as possible.

  • Starting from the top (ceiling, light fixtures) and working downwards.
  • You can use a microfiber cloth or a duster to wipe the dust off to clean walls, vents, baseboards, and other surfaces.
  • Light switches, electrical outlets, and door frames are not exempted since these surfaces collect dust.

3. Clean Windows and Glass Surfaces

Then, move on to all the glass parts of the house, such as windows, mirrors, and glass doors. Construction activities lead to a lot of staining and soiling on surfaces.

  • Clean the windows with glass cleaner and then wipe with a microfiber cloth to ensure that there are no marks.
  • For a professional finish, use a squeegee on the windows.
  • Shower doors made of glass, ordinary mirrors and other decorative glass works should also not be left out.

The Ultimate DIY Construction Cleaning Checklist

4. Vacuum the Floors Thoroughly

Floors can gather a lot of dust, dirt, and small particles that may get stuck, so it is crucial to vacuum it several times thoroughly.

  • Vacuum the floor using a vacuum with a HEPA filter to catch even tiny dust particles.
  • Tile, wood, carpet and all other types of floor should be cleaned more than once to ensure they are very clean.
  • Cross the entire room several times and pay attention to the edges and the corners, as these are the perfect places for dirt to hide.

5. Mop Hard Floors

When the vacuuming is done, it’s time to mop the floors. This step helps in ensuring that there is no remaining dirt or any sticky substance on the floor.

  • You can use a mild cleaner or a solution of water and vinegar to clean the tile or wood floor.
  • Mop in sections and ensure the floor is dry as soon as possible.
  • Use a damp (not soaking) mop to avoid damaging sensitive types of floors.

6. Clean Kitchen Surfaces

If the kitchen was included in the construction activities, then it is likely that the surfaces would have dust and debris on them. Clean up these areas next.

  • Wipe down countertops with an all-purpose cleaner.
  • Clean the sink, faucet, and even the backsplash.
  • Wash any other equipment affected, like the refrigerator, oven, and microwave.

The Ultimate DIY Construction Cleaning Checklist

7. Deep Clean Bathroom Fixtures

Bathrooms also need some attention when it comes to construction activities. Wipe or scrub the remaining dust, residue, and stains in the bathroom.

  • Clean the toilet, sink, tub, or shower using the right bathroom cleaner.
  • Wipe down the mirrors and other glassware that might have been used in the process.
  • Ensure you focus on the grout lines and faucets, which will likely hold onto dirt.

8. Check for Paint Spills and Stains

Paint splatters and other stains are usual in construction areas. These stains should be handled as soon as possible to ensure they do not set in and become permanent.

  • Oil-based spills can be removed with a solvent or paint remover.
  • If paint has already dried up on the surface, try to remove it by scraping it off using a plastic scraper.
  • Use a spot cleaner for the specific material to clean carpet or fabric stains.

9. Address Ventilation and Air Quality

Construction dust is diffused in the air and can, therefore, impact air quality in a given room. To ensure that the air that you breathe is clean and safe:

  • Change or clean the filter of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
  • Open the windows and doors to let some fresh air into the room.
  • An air purifier can also filter small dust particles in the air.

The Ultimate DIY Construction Cleaning Checklist

10. Inspect the Space for Final Touches

After you are done with the most challenging part, it is advisable to tour the house once more to ensure that there is no leftover work.

  • Recheck the areas that may have been missed or the areas with tight corners and shelves.
  • Wipe off any light fixtures or ceiling fans with dust on them.
  • All the trash bins should be empty, and the space should be given a final once-over with the vacuum cleaner.

11. Final Sweep and Touch-Up

After cleaning almost everything, it is time to give the house a final sweep to give it that finishing touch.

  • Wipe off the dust from the corners, shelves, and other parts of the surface that may have dust accumulation.
  • Clean any surface that feels sticky or oily despite wiping with a clean cloth.
  • Bring some fresh scent to the air by lighting a candle or using an air freshener.

The Ultimate DIY Construction Cleaning Checklist

Conclusion

Construction cleaning is an important part of using your house or apartment and you may decide to do it on your own.

However, if you do not have the time or the energy to do it yourself, you can always turn to NW Maids.

Our professional house cleaning service can offer you the deep cleaning you require for your home. Contact us now to book for a cleaning service.

 

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