Construction & Post-Renovation Cleaning

Construction cleaning is the process of removing debris, dust, and contaminants left behind after renovation or new build work. It happens in three phases: rough clean (ongoing debris removal during construction), final clean (after all trades are done but before you move in), and touch-up clean (final pass before occupancy).

Construction dust is not regular house dust. Drywall dust, concrete dust, and wood dust are fine particles that get into everything — HVAC ducts, behind light fixtures, inside electrical outlets, under baseboards, and into the pores of unfinished wood. Drywall dust is gypsum and paper fibers. Concrete dust contains silica, which is a known carcinogen and requires HEPA filtration to clean safely. Cutting or grinding masonry, brick, or concrete generates respirable crystalline silica that causes silicosis (irreversible lung scarring).

Duct cleaning after a renovation is not optional. Construction dust circulates through your furnace and AC system every time the blower runs. It coats the inside of the ducts, settles on the blower motor, and clogs the air filter within days. A proper duct cleaning uses negative pressure and rotating brushes to dislodge debris, then HEPA vacuums to capture it. Cost is $300-$500 for a typical house and takes 2-4 hours.

Final cleaning includes washing all hard surfaces (counters, floors, windows, trim), vacuuming carpets and upholstery with HEPA filters, wiping down light fixtures and switch plates, cleaning inside cabinets and closets, and removing paint overspray or adhesive residue. The goal is to make the space move-in ready.

Pressure washing the exterior removes concrete splatter, paint overspray, and mud tracked by workers. Use low pressure (1,000-1,500 PSI) for vinyl siding, brick, and stucco. High pressure (2,500+ PSI) is only safe for concrete driveways and walkways. Too much pressure on siding will crack it or drive water behind the vapour barrier.