After a renovation, most people expect to walk into a refreshed space that looks brand new. But what many forget is that even the best contractors leave behind a mess. Dust settles everywhere. Smudges, glue, and debris stick to surfaces. And if it’s not handled correctly, that new renovation can feel unfinished.
If you’ve just wrapped up a project in Ottawa, you’re probably ready to start using the space right away. Before moving in furniture or inviting anyone over, please take a moment to understand what really needs to be cleaned and how to do it right.
This checklist can help you get that fresh, polished result you were expecting.
1: Start With the Air
Construction dust isn’t just on surfaces. It spreads into vents, ceiling fans, and filters. This fine dust can persist for weeks if not adequately addressed.
Before you start wiping things down, turn off any HVAC systems. Replace or clean air filters, vacuum vents, and use an air purifier if available. Wipe fan blades, grilles, and return covers with a damp microfiber cloth. Run an air purifier in the space for several hours, then vacuum with a HEPA vacuum cleaner. Work from the ceiling down to the floor. This helps reduce the dust that resettles on surfaces after you clean.
2: Clear Out the Big Stuff
Look for leftover materials, packaging, and scraps. Pick up any nails, screws, or small tools left behind. Check under appliances, behind doors, and in corners. This part is straightforward, but it sets the stage for deep cleaning.
Don’t forget to look outside if your project involved exterior work. Driveways, porches, and entryways often collect construction dust and debris, too.
3: Dust Every Surface Multiple Times
Start from the top: ceiling corners, light fixtures, vents, and fan blades. Then work your way down to shelves, counters, and baseboards. Finish with floors.
Dry dusting is more effective at first, especially for removing drywall dust. Use microfiber cloths to trap the dust instead of spreading it around. Once most of the dust is gone, go over everything again with a damp cloth.
Pay special attention to:
- Window sills and tracks
- Inside cabinets and drawers
- Door frames and handles
- Light switches and outlet covers
4: Clean Floors Carefully
If you have tile, hardwood, vinyl, or carpet, floors collect the most dust and debris during construction. Vacuum thoroughly, get into corners and edges too.
For hard floors, use a damp mop with a gentle cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals, especially on new materials. For carpets, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter, and consider a steam clean if there’s any lingering dust or odors.
5: Sanitize High-Touch Areas
After the dust has settled, disinfect surfaces such as countertops, cabinet handles, light switches, and bathroom fixtures. Construction teams often wear gloves, but there’s still much contact during a project. Sanitizing helps make the space feel ready to use again.
6: Don’t Forget the Hidden Spots
Some areas are often overlooked, even during regular cleanups. After construction, it’s even easier to overlook them:
- Behind appliances
- Inside closets
- Under furniture that was moved
- Air return vents and duct openings
Check these spots carefully. You might find more dust or scraps tucked away.
7: Know When to Bring in Help
Post-construction cleanup is a big job. Most people don’t realize how much time and effort it takes until they’re knee-deep in dust. That’s why many property owners in Ottawa work with a professional construction cleaning company.
The team at Unique Cleaning Company handles what others miss. We know how to remove fine dust from vents, clean baseboards without damaging paint, and safely dispose of construction waste. Our construction cleaning services are designed to get your space move-in ready without the stress.
If your project involved major renovations, drywall installation, or flooring work, a second round of cleaning is often needed. Even if your contractor did a basic sweep-up, it usually isn’t enough for daily living.
8: Final Touches
Once everything’s clean, check your windows for smudges, inspect the walls for stray paint drops, and look for any leftover tape or residue from packaging. These little details make a difference.
If you’re staging the space to sell or rent, clean spaces show better, smell better, and feel more inviting. First impressions count, clean homes photograph better, and the right construction cleaning company can help you achieve that.
Clean Space, Fresh Start
Renovations are an investment in your home or business. But the work isn’t over when the contractor leaves. The proper cleanup turns a finished project into a livable, welcoming space.
At Unique Cleaning Company, we help property owners across Ottawa make the most of their renovations. Our construction cleaning services extend beyond surface cleaning to clean every corner, vent, and baseboard thoroughly. With our team, you can enjoy your upgraded space without the lingering dust and debris. We handle the final step so you can step back, breathe easier, and enjoy a spotless new beginning.