The ending of a construction project doesn’t always mean the job is done, as there’s usually a mess left behind. Dust, debris, and leftover materials can make the space look anything but ready. All of this can be overwhelming, especially when you need a safe, clean area for the next phase.
This is where the 3 phases of post-construction cleaning come in handy. Each phase is strategically designed to tackle the finest details. By breaking down the cleanup into these fundamental stages, you ensure that every area is systematically checked and prepared for the final reveal.
In the following guide, we’ll go through each phase so you know exactly what it is and what post-construction cleaning equipment is needed for each stage.
3 Phases of Post-Construction Cleaning
Why is it so important to clean a construction site once it’s done? Because a clean and well-organized site significantly reduces the risk of injuries. Now, let’s take a look at the 3 phases of post-construction cleaning that you should be aware of:
1. Phase 1: Rough Cleaning
Rough cleaning is the first step, and it is performed right after the construction work is complete. This focuses on removing large debris, dust, and dirt to make the space safer and easier to clean with more detail.
What Does It Involve?
In rough cleaning, the goal is to remove all visible construction waste and clear the space of thick layers of dust and dirt. This stage is about getting rid of the bulk mess so that thorough cleaning can happen later. It covers the following areas:
- Debris and Waste Removal: Leftover materials such as wood scraps, packaging, wires and other debris are picked up and properly discarded. Removing these items ensures a safer environment for the cleaners and the property.
- Initial Dust and Dirt Clearing: Dust settles on every surface after construction. Wiping down walls, windowsills, doors, and floors is essential to clear away this initial layer.
- Basic Surface Cleaning: Sweeping or mopping floors and wiping down windows and fixtures give the space an initial pass that reduces the bulk of visible dirt.
Required Cleaning Equipment for This Step:
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Trash Bags and Bins | Used for collecting large debris and waste items. |
| Brooms and Dustpans | For sweeping up dust and dirt from floors and corners. |
| Industrial-Grade Vacuums | Heavy-duty vacuums that can handle construction dust and particles. |
| Microfiber Cloths and Dusters | Wipes down surfaces and traps dust to prevent resettling. |
| Dust Masks and Gloves | Ensures safety when dealing with dust and sharp debris. |
Phase 2: Light Cleaning
Light cleaning is the most thorough and time-intensive phase, which focuses on every area and surface in detail. This step ensures all visible and hidden debris is removed, creating a clean and fresh environment.
What Does It Involve?
This phase covers deep cleaning of floors, walls, fixtures, and any installed equipment. Light cleaning aims to remove any lingering dust and construction residue to make the space feel close to move-in ready.
- Deep Surface Cleaning: Every surface, e.g., floors, walls, countertops, and more, is cleaned in-depth. Kitchens and bathrooms are particularly prioritized because of the presence of fixtures that gather dust and residue.
- Window and Glass Cleaning: Glass surfaces like windows, doors, and mirrors are carefully cleaned to remove streaks and smudges. It provides a clear and polished finish.
- Vent and HVAC Cleaning: Air ducts and vents are cleaned to prevent dust particles from circulating once the space is occupied.
Required Cleaning Equipment for This Step:
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Wet/Dry Vacuum | Deeper cleaning for dust, especially on carpets and tight spaces. |
| Glass Cleaners and Squeegees | For streak-free cleaning of windows, mirrors, and glass doors. |
| All-Purpose Cleaners | Cleans surfaces like walls, countertops, and floors. |
| Scrub Brushes and Sponges | For scrubbing fixtures in kitchens and bathrooms to remove dust and residue. |
| Ladders or Extension Poles | Helps reach high areas such as ceilings, vents and tall windows. |
3. Phase 3: Final Touch-Up Cleaning
Touch-up cleaning is the final phase that focuses on the finishing details to make the space look flawless and ready for occupancy. It’s typically done a day or two after the second phase to catch any dust that has settled.
What Does It Involve?
This third phase is about going over the space with a fine-tooth comb to ensure no spot is missed and every part of it shines. It’s the final pass that gives the space a professional and polished look.
- Spot Cleaning and Detailing: Any remaining fingerprints, smudges, or spots on glass and mirror are wiped away for a perfect and spotless finish.
- Final Dusting: Surfaces are lightly dusted again, catching any dust that may have resettled since the previous phase.
- Polishing and Finishing Touches: Floors, countertops, and fixtures are polished to give a high-shine, clean look.
Required Cleaning Equipment for This Step:
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Microfiber Cloths and Dusters | Light dusting to remove remaining dust. |
| Polishing Cloths | Used to give floors, countertops, and surfaces a shiny, polished finish. |
| All-Purpose Cleaners | Cleans surfaces like walls, countertops, and floors. |
| Window Cleaning Sprays | Final touch-ups for glass surfaces. |
| Floor Polisher or Mop | Gives floors a final clean and shine. |
3 Phases of Post-Construction Cleaning Checklist
Here’s a simple checklist for the 3 phases of post-construction cleaning that you can follow while cleaning the construction site:
Phase 1: Rough Cleaning
- Pick up and dispose of wood scraps, packaging, and other construction waste.
- Wipe down walls, windowsills, doors, and high surfaces to remove thick dust layers.
- Sweep or vacuum floors to remove loose first and dust.
- Clean windows, light fixtures, and door frames to remove initial dirt buildup.
Phase 2: Light Cleaning
- Clean all windows, mirrors, and glass surfaces for a streak-free finish.
- Clear out air ducts and vents to prevent dust circulation in the space.
- Deep clean sinks, fixtures, and tile grout in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Scrub the floor, countertops, cabinets, and all other surfaces to remove any remaining dust and residue.
Phase 3: Final Touch-Up Cleaning
- Wipe down surfaces again to remove any resettled dust or smudges.
- Give floors, countertops, and other areas a final polish for a clean and shiny look.
- Ensures glass surfaces, mirrors, and fixtures are spotless and streak-free.
- Do a final walkthrough to ensure everything is spotless and ready for handover.
Post Construction Cleaning Checklist
Let’s make the whole post-construction cleaning checklist a little shorter so you can use it if you don’t have much time to go through each phase individually.
- Remove debris and waste.
- Clear dust from walls, windowsills, and fixtures.
- Sweep or vacuum floors.
- Deep clean all surfaces, including floors and countertops.
- Clean windows, mirrors, and glass surfaces.
- Dust and clean vents and air ducts.
- Detail clean kitchens and bathrooms (sinks, files, and fixtures).
- Spot clean and polish floors and countertops.
- Check for streaks, smudges, and touch-ups as needed.
- Do a final inspection to ensure everything is spotless.
What Are the Current Post-Construction Cleaning Rates?
The current commercial cleaning rates are:
- Between $0.15 and $0.60 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the project.
- For exterior projects, the range is between $125 to $800 and more.
- Cleaning services sometimes also charge between $30 and $50 per worker if they do the work based on the hourly rate.
For commercial needs, it’s beneficial to hire a construction cleaning service, as that’s quite reasonable and quick.
Let Mill City Cleaning Handle Your Post-Construction Cleaning Needs
After construction, cleaning up can feel like a huge task. However, with the help of 3 phases of post-construction cleaning, you can make it way easier.
Simply follow the checklist and you’re good to go. If it sounds like a lot to handle, Mill City Cleaning is here to help with Post Construction Cleaning Services. We understand how difficult post-construction can be, and our Commercial Cleaning Services in Minneapolis are specifically designed to make the process easy.
With our reliable Minneapolis Cleaning Service, you’ll have a clean and safe space in no time. So, what’s the wait now? Contact us today to create a custom commercial cleaning plan for your project.
FAQs
How do you clean post-construction?
The post-construction cleaning includes:
- Rough Cleaning: To remove large debris, leftover materials, and thick dust from surfaces.
- Light Cleaning: For deep cleaning all the surfaces, including floors, walls, and windows.
- Final Touch-up: Last polish of surfaces to ensure a spotless and move-in-ready space.
What is the post-cleaning process?
The post-cleaning process is a structured, step-by-step approach to transforming a construction site into a clean, safe, and usable space. It starts with rough cleaning to get rid of debris, followed by light cleaning for detailed work. Lastly, it is finished with a final touch-up for a flawless appearance.
