Skip to content 
Proper cleaning is essential after a construction or renovation job. Construction and renovation jobs often leave tons of dust, residue, materials, and dirt in their wake. In a post-construction clean there are three main phases: rough, light, and final. In this blog, you will learn about the cleaning phases of construction cleanup.
What is Post-Construction Cleaning?
Post-construction cleaning is different from any other type of cleaning job. This is due to the nature of the condition of the space before the cleaning process. Before a construction cleanup, a building or space is usually in the worst condition it will ever be, this makes post-construction cleanup incredibly important. You want a very experienced team doing a construction site cleaning, and you want them to have the best materials and equipment at their disposal while they do it. They need to remove all construction materials, any debris from building, and effectively make sure that every surface looks pristine and ready for show. After-build cleaning can also apply to many types of properties such as residential, commercial, and industrial.
Phase 1: Rough Cleaning
Rough Cleaning is performed immediately after the framing and major structural work of the build takes place. It focuses on removing large debris, leftover materials, and dust. Typically it also includes removing trash, drywall dust, and stickers from windows and doors. Sweeping and vacuuming surfaces also take place at this time, as well as the disposal of any leftover construction materials. At this point in the process, heavy duty vacuums, brooms, and industrial trash bags are typically used. The importance of the rough cleaning phase is that it prepares the building site for inspections and the next phase of construction. It also prevents hazards and improves worksite visibility making the environment safer for builders and construction workers.
Phase 2: Light Cleaning (actually Deep Cleaning)
Phase 2 of the cleaning process takes place once the rough cleaning is complete and the next phase of construction work is done. It typically happens after most of the construction work is done, prior to final finishes. At this stage in the process, bathrooms, kitchens, cabinets, and interior glass are cleaned. Additionally, dusting of baseboards, vents, and ledges take place. At this point, mopping and vacuuming of floors will also happen. Although the phase is widely referred to as “light cleaning”, the work that is done follows more closely with what most people think of when they think of a deep cleaning. We use the term “light cleaning” because it is industry standard language. Some of the challenges that arise during a deep post-construction clean are stubborn dust buildup, and cleaning around installed fixtures. This is why it is so important to have a qualified crew doing interior cleaning after construction and providing detailed cleaning.
Phase 3: Final Cleaning
This is the last stage in the post-construction cleaning process and it takes place right before client handover or occupancy. During this stage, final dusting and polishing of surfaces take place. At this point, we would also clean windows, floors, and perform touch-ups of other surfaces. We would also sanitize bathrooms and kitchen areas (including break rooms). Overall, the main focus would be on ensuring that the property is “move-in ready”. In the commercial space, this means that the building is ready for people to be inside and working. Through final walkthroughs, punch list items, and quality checks, we are providing quality assurance and making sure that all the finishing touches are ready to go before the construction company officially hands off the space to the business or tenants.
Why All Three Phases Matter
Having three separate cleaning phases for post-construction may seem like overkill, but actually all three phases are necessary to ensure safety, cleanliness, and customer satisfaction by the end of the process. Especially when the start is so rough with a construction site, all three phases are equally important. It’s critical for a successful project handover from construction team to business to have the post-construction cleaning phases done correctly. A good construction cleanup can enhance the longevity of finishes and appliances as well.
Hiring a Professional Post-Construction Cleaning Company
When it comes to post-construction cleaning, the level of detail, equipment, and safety precautions required often make it a job best left to professionals. Choosing the right cleaning company can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure the property is truly ready for occupancy.
Why Hire a Professional?
Professional post-construction cleansing services offer benefits that go beyond simple dusting and vacuuming. Here’s why hiring experts is truly worth the investment:
- Specialized Equipment: Professionals use industrial-grade vacuums, HEPA filters, and other tools designed to handle construction debris and fine dust.
- Trained Staff: Crews are trained to identify and clean areas that may be missed in a general cleaning. They know how to use the materials and equipment effectively to clean the construction space.
- Time Efficiency: Professionals can clean thoroughly and efficiently, helping you meet deadlines. They can keep schedules and maintain order throughout the process.
- Compliance and Safety: Knowledge of OSHA guidelines ensures that the job is done safely and according to regulations.
- Waste Disposal: A trained team will know how to properly handle and dispose of hazardous waste of bulky construction waste.
What to Look for in a Post-Construction Cleaning Company
Not all cleaning companies are equipped to handle the higher demands of a post-construction cleaning crew. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Experience in Post-Construction Projects: Look for companies that specialize in post-construction or post-renovation cleaning, not just janitorial work.
- Licensed and Insured: Ensure they carry proper liability insurance and worker’s comprensation to protect against accidents or damage.
- Comprehensice Services: Choose a company that offers all three phases: rough, light, and final clean. If they are not familiar with those services, they might not be the right fit for a post-construction clean.
- Flexible Scheduling: They should be able to work around tight construction timelines and coordinate with contractors as needed.
- Positive Reviews and References: Check testimonials, Google reviews, or ask for references from past clients.
- Detailed Quote and Scope of Work Explained: Make sure they provide a written estimate for the job with clear deliverables for each phase.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
To make sure you are hiring the right team, ask these questions:
- Do you specialize in post-construction cleaning?
- Can you provide a detailed breakdown of services by phase?
- Are your staff trained and insured?
- What equipment and cleaning products do you use?
- Can you work after-hours or weekends if needed to maintain construction schedules?
- Do you guarantee your work or offer post-cleaning inspections?
Hiring a trusted, experienced post-construction cleaning company not only ensures that your site is pristine, it also helps you avoid costly delays, improve safety, and create a professional final impression. Make sure that you hire a post-construction cleaning company you can trust to do the job well. If you are local to the Salt Lake county or Utah county areas, Jani-Serv, Inc. is a trusted post-construction cleaning company that has done many jobs in the construction cleaning industry. Call us at 385-436-1610 for more information on our cleaning process, and to get a free quote.