With every renovation comes the inevitable aftermath: a layer of fine construction dust that settles everywhere. So, before you can enjoy your new space, you need to clean the dust, and hiring a professional cleaning company is your best bet for a thorough job. But even as you delegate, you want to know, how will construction dust be cleaned up after renovation?
Dry dusting is a safe way to remove dust particles from surfaces without damaging them. However, a damp cloth can be used depending on the type of wall covering and paint.
Post-construction dust cleaning checklist
A thorough clean-up after construction is vital for a fresh and healthy living space. Here's a detailed checklist from a professional post-construction cleaning service, Bright Home Solutions:
- Vacuum and then damp mop floors to get rid of construction debris and residue
- Dust the light fixtures, ceiling fans, windowsills, and interior windows
- Dust and then wipe shelves, tables, and any flat surface
- Dust walls and baseboards
- Clean any mirror
- Remove paint and stuck debris from hinges
- Vacuum and wipe the floor vents to ensure optimal airflow
- Dust and wipe appliances
How long does it take for dust to settle after renovation?
Construction dust starts to settle in roughly five to ten minutes. However, some dust particles, depending on their size, can continue falling for weeks after cleaning.
Particles around 5 µm in diameter (respirable) will take closer to 8 minutes to settle. The finest particles, with a diameter of just 1 µm, can linger in the air for up to 4 hours or even longer before they settle.
You can help dust settle faster by increasing the humidity in your home. Humidity causes the dust particles to stick to each other, making them heavy and fall faster.
How is construction dust cleaned off concrete floors?
A solution of white vinegar (50/50 water and vinegar) helps to remove concrete dust.
A low concentration of hydrogen peroxide and all-purpose cleaners also work well. However, cleaning up after a renovation is hard work and time-consuming. You’re better off handing the task to a professional cleaner with the right tools like vacuums equipped with HEPA filters and dust attachments to capture small dust particles. They also use eco-friendly cleaning solutions to ensure you and your pets are safe.
What are the effects of post-construction dust?
Post-construction dust is more than an inconvenience; it can affect your health. Prolonged exposure to construction dust particles can lead to severe respiratory issues.
Construction dust is a general term that describes airborne dust after a construction project. However, there are several categories:
- Silica dust: This is produced when working with materials containing silica, such as concrete, sandstone, and mortar.
- Wood dust: It's generated when working with hardwood, softwood, and wood-based products like plywood and MDF.
- Lower toxicity dust: These are formed when working with materials with minimal or no silica content. Common examples include gypsum, dolomite, marble, and limestone.
Dust-related diseases that can develop over time include lung cancer, asthma, silicosis, and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). While conditions like asthma and silicosis develop fast, many diseases take time to develop.
What tools are needed to clean post-construction dust?
For thorough and efficient post-renovation cleaning, professional cleaners invest in the right tools. These supplies include:
- Dusting tools: These are vital for tackling the layers of dust that settle post-construction. These tools include dusters, microfiber cloths, and paper towels. Having a variety ensures they can tackle dust on various flat surfaces.
- Heavy-duty vacuum cleaner: A robust vacuum, preferably with a HEPA filter helps in removing the finer particles of dust that brooms might miss.
- All-purpose cleaner: This versatile cleaner is perfect for wiping down most surfaces, ensuring they are free from dust and stains.
- Glass cleaner: For windows, mirrors, and other glass surfaces, a good glass cleaner will ensure a streak-free shine.
- Mop and bucket: These are essential for cleaning floors, especially tiled or laminated surfaces. Professional cleaners have good quality mops that can reach corners and edges.
- Scrub brushes: These come in handy for tougher stains or residues that might be left behind on surfaces.
- Protective gloves: Gloves protect hands from chemicals and any sharp debris.
- Respirator or dust mask: These are important if a lot of fine dust is still in the air. They protect the lungs from inhaling any harmful particles.
Aside from these, the team at Bright Home Solutions wears protective clothing, including safety glasses, hard hats, protective footwear, and long-sleeved clothing in commercial construction facilities
Should air filters be replaced after a renovation?
Your air filter should be replaced before the start of a renovation project. A new HVAC filter will trap dirt, dust, and debris from your renovation better. During the renovation project, replace it once every month during renovation. Once the project is complete, replace the filter again to ensure you breathe clean air in your revamped space.
How to deal with construction dust before construction work
To reduce the dusty mess after renovation you should do the following:
- Plan and prepare: This involves making plans to cover the furniture and other belongings using a heavy plastic sheet to protect them from damage and construction dust. If possible, move sentimental items from the workspace.
- Protect the floor: The floor protection used depends on the type of floor you have. Carpets are protected with plastic wrapping and kraft paper, while laminate, hardwood, and linoleum flooring are covered with heavy-duty cardboard.
- Seal off the workspace: Isolate the workspace from the rest of the house with plastic sheeting or a temporary wall.
- Open windows: This creates a positive pressure that allows dust to flow out of the workspace.
- Cover air and vent returns: Covering air and vent returns prevents dust from circulating into other spaces and potentially clogging the air filters.
Hire Bright Home Solutions
Dealing with dust from the renovation process can be daunting, but it becomes manageable with the right preparation and tools. Unfortunately, homeowners don't have all the necessary tools to guarantee a thorough job. And even if you can procure these tools, it'd be more expensive than hiring a professional cleaner.
If you need expert assistance to restore the freshness of your home post-renovation, look no further than Bright Home Solutions. With our environmentally friendly post-construction cleaning methods and commitment to customer satisfaction, we guarantee a clean and healthy home. Contact us today and let us bring the shine back to your newly renovated space!
