Turning a Site into a Liveable Space with Post-Construction Cleaning

When a construction or a renovation project ends, the job is far from finished. What is left behind when the tools go down is a blanket of dust, debris, residue, and - in some cases - hazardous materials that could be toxic to humans and the environment.

This is why post-construction cleaning is so crucial to ensuring the site is safe and ready for occupation.

Why Post-Construction Cleaning Is Essential

The best building contractors can even leave a mess behind. Sawdust, drywall residue, stray nails, paint splatter, adhesive markings, and thick dust can accumulate on surfaces, and it's not the team's job to clean up before they leave. With no deep, professional cleaning, these components can linger and cause all kinds of problems, including allergic reactions, damaged airflow systems, and harm to the environment.

Post-construction cleaning is the link between building completion and the suitability of a property for use. It needs to be done before an apartment block becomes home to its new tenants. It needs to be done before the grand opening of the new office space, and it needs to be done before the doors are opened to a brand new commercial space.

The Three Steps of Post-Construction Cleaning

1. Initial Clean: This stage takes place prior to any final installations such as flooring, painting, or the moving of appliances. It involves removing all leftover materials in addition to surface cleaning.
2. Deep Clean: Once construction is complete, this phase concentrates on the removal of fine dust particles as well as the deep cleaning of floors, walls, fixtures, windows, and surfaces.
3. The Ultimate Touch-Up: After the furniture and appliances are installed, this stage ensures that the entire area is spotlessly clean and ready for its occupants. It involves polishing, spot cleaning, upholstery cleaning, vacuuming, ventilation cleaning, mopping, sanitisation and confirming everything is ready for the handover.

What's Involved in a Thorough Clean?

• Removal of Dust: Construction dust can settle everywhere—from windowsills to light fittings and those hard-to-reach corners. Vacuums that come with HEPA filters are essential for this first step.
• Floor Care: Specialised cleaning skills may be necessary to remove grime from floor spaces such as tiles.
• Window Cleaning: Windows are a hotspot for construction fall-out material. Scrapers are a cleaner's best friend when it comes to achieving a streak-free finish.
• Surface Polishing: Every railing, cabinet, and appliance must be shiny and free of dust.
• Ventilation and Duct Cleaning: Air vents and filters can become blocked from construction dust, so the cleaning of ventilation systems and ducts is something that should be prioritised.
• Bathroom and Kitchen Sanitisation: Fumigation and a deep clean are important in the bathroom and kitchen to remove any bacteria that are present.

Health and Safety Considerations

Post-construction sites can pose risks even after the builders leave. Cleaners must:

• Wear PPE.
• Be trained in workplace hazards (like unstable flooring or exposed wires).
• Follow safe practices for waste removal and dangerous items such as glass shards.

Tools and Equipment That Can Be Used

• Industrial HEPA vacuums
• Microfibre cloths
• Power washers
• Mops and degreasers
• Adhesive removers and eco-friendly solvents
• Extension ladders and scaffolding for areas that would normally be out of reach

Who Needs Post-Construction Cleaning?

• Homeowners would benefit from post-construction cleaning, especially after renovation projects.
• Real estate agents may need the service before important house viewings.
• Business owners can benefit from post-construction cleaning before the grand opening of new retail, office, or hospitality spaces.
• Property managers may require post-construction cleaning to keep their properties in optimal condition.

Post-Construction Cleaning Supplies

At Big Clean, we are proud to stock all the products and equipment commercial cleaners need to transform dirty construction zones into liveable spaces. Get in touch with us today if you'd like more information on any of our products.