Tips for Cleaning the Construction of a Brand New Home
Construction cleaning is one of the last items to be completed during any building project, and differs greatly in comparison to general maintenance cleaning. The dirt that is created during construction builds up quickly, and in inconspicuous, often hard-to-clean areas. To make cleaning a new construction less arduous, you must successfully capture the dirt and debris using the proper equipment, and by cleaning the structure following a specific order. Does this Spark an idea?
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Equipment
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A vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter can be one of the most useful tools when cleaning a newly constructed structure. Not only will it make cleaning floors simpler, but can also be used to clean a variety of surfaces, such as walls, baseboards and moldings. A vacuum cleaner can also be used to clean out any construction debris from bathroom and kitchen cabinets.
Also, be sure you have an all-purpose cleaner and several old rags, as well as any specialty cleaners for hardwood or natural stone surfaces. When cleaning glass surfaces, use an ammonia-based glass cleaner and old newspapers to leave a streak-free shine. You can remove product labels from glass or solid surfaces with a razor blade and a scratch-resistant sponge.
Work From Top to Bottom
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The law of gravity can be useful in cleaning a new construction by remembering to work from the top down. Always start at the highest point on the top floor when you begin your project. This will allow dust and debris to fall and be vacuumed up off of the floor when you are finished. Be sure you clean all ceiling fans and moldings with either a damp cloth or the soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner as you work your way down.
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Duct Work
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Duct work is one of the many places where construction debris hides. Before you begin your project, be sure you have yours professionally cleaned. Not doing so could cause a large amount of dust to be released into the air when the furnace fan is turned on. If the contractor building the structure remembered to seal off the duct work, it may only be necessary to clean the register covers with a mild cleaning solution.
Light Fixtures
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The position of most light fixtures causes them to be a popular hiding spot for dust. Before you start cleaning, remove all glass globes and covers at the construction site and clean them. If you have access to a dishwasher, place the light fixtures in it and wash them using the gentle or china cycle. They may also be washed by-hand using a mild cleaner and hot water. Allow them to dry completely before placing them back on their respective fixtures, and don't forget to also clean the light bulbs using a dry cloth.
Floors
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The floors of any new construction site should be one of the last items cleaned. If time allows, they should be vacuumed twice, waiting 24 hours between the first and second occurrence to ensure all dust has settled. Any solid surfaces, such as hardwood floors or tile, should be mopped using an appropriate cleaner and a microfiber mop.
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References
Resources
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