Quick Answer
Post-construction cleaning involves: (1) Removing all debris and leftover materials, (2) dusting from ceiling to floor, (3) detail cleaning all surfaces including inside cabinets, (4) deep cleaning windows, bathrooms, and kitchen, (5) thorough floor cleaning, and (6) replacing HVAC filters. Allow 1-2 days for a full home. Wait 24-48 hours after construction ends for dust to settle before cleaning.
Congratulations on completing your renovation or new home construction! Whether you've updated a 1950s Clairemont ranch house, added an ADU in North Park, or built your dream home in Carmel Valley, there's one final step before you can truly enjoy your new space: post-construction cleaning.
Construction and renovation create a unique type of mess. Fine drywall dust coats every surface. Sawdust hides in corners. Grout haze films your new tile. Stickers and protective film cover appliances and fixtures. And everything is covered in a layer of that fine, powdery residue that regular cleaning simply can't address.
This guide walks you through the complete post-construction cleaning process, with specific guidance for San Diego homeowners navigating our local construction boom and unique climate considerations.
Important Safety Note
If your project involved work on a pre-1978 San Diego home, there's potential for lead paint disturbance. Similarly, some older materials contain asbestos. If hazardous materials were involved, do not attempt DIY cleaning—hire certified professionals with proper equipment and disposal protocols.
Post-Construction Cleaning: Step by Step
Safety First: Protect Yourself
Wear an N95 mask, safety glasses, and gloves. Open windows for ventilation. Turn off HVAC to prevent spreading dust through ducts. Cover vents with plastic if necessary.
Remove Large Debris
Collect leftover materials, packaging, and trash. Sweep or shop-vac large particles from floors. Clear out any contractor items that should have been removed.
Dust from Top to Bottom
Start with ceilings, light fixtures, and ceiling fans. Work down walls, crown molding, and door frames. Dust settles downward, so always start high.
Detail Clean All Surfaces
Wipe down all cabinets inside and out. Clean countertops, windowsills, and ledges. Use damp microfiber cloths to trap fine dust rather than spreading it.
Clean Windows and Glass
Remove stickers, tape, and protective film. Clean glass with appropriate cleaner. Don't forget window tracks and frames where dust accumulates heavily.
Deep Clean Bathrooms and Kitchen
Sanitize all fixtures, tiles, and grout. Remove construction residue from sinks, tubs, and toilets. Check that all drains flow freely and aren't clogged with debris.
Final Floor Cleaning
Vacuum all floors thoroughly, including edges and corners. Mop hard floors appropriately for surface type. For new hardwood, follow manufacturer guidelines.
HVAC and Air Quality
Replace or clean HVAC filters. Consider professional duct cleaning for major renovations. Run air purifiers for 24-48 hours to capture remaining airborne particles.
Room-by-Room Cleaning Checklist
Whole House
- Remove all debris and leftover materials
- Dust ceilings, walls, and light fixtures
- Clean all door frames and doors
- Wipe baseboards throughout
- Clean all windows (interior and exterior)
- Vacuum and mop all floors
- Replace HVAC filters
- Test all fixtures and appliances
Kitchen
- Wipe inside all cabinets and drawers
- Clean countertops and backsplash
- Clean inside appliances (oven, dishwasher, fridge)
- Sanitize sink and fixtures
- Remove stickers from new appliances
- Clean range hood and filter
Bathrooms
- Sanitize toilets, sinks, and tubs/showers
- Clean mirrors and glass
- Wipe inside vanity cabinets
- Ensure drains are clear
- Remove protective film from fixtures
- Clean exhaust fans
Specialty Areas
- Clean garage floors if applicable
- Wipe down laundry area
- Clean any outdoor living spaces affected
- Address attic/crawl space if work was done there
San Diego Construction Cleaning Tips
Coastal Humidity Consideration
In beach communities like La Jolla, Pacific Beach, or Coronado, construction dust can combine with marine air humidity to create a sticky residue. Use slightly damp cloths for wiping and ensure good ventilation to prevent moisture issues in newly sealed surfaces.
ADU Construction
San Diego's ADU boom means many homeowners are dealing with backyard construction. Don't forget to clean outdoor areas affected by construction, including patios, driveways, and any outdoor furniture that was exposed to dust.
New Construction in Fire Zones
If you've built in areas like Rancho Santa Fe, Scripps Ranch, or East County, your new HVAC and fire-resistant materials need proper care. Have the HVAC system professionally cleaned, and ensure any fire-resistant coatings aren't damaged during cleanup.
Should You DIY or Hire Professionals?
Post-construction cleaning is one of the most demanding cleaning tasks. Here's when it makes sense to go DIY versus hiring help:
DIY Makes Sense If:
- Small project (single room, bathroom remodel)
- You have proper equipment (shop vac, ladder)
- No hazardous materials were involved
- You have 1-2 full days to dedicate
Hire Professionals If:
- Major renovation or new construction
- Move-in deadline is approaching
- Pre-1978 home (potential lead/asbestos)
- Multiple stories or high ceilings
Frequently Asked Questions
How long after construction should you wait to clean?
Wait at least 24-48 hours after construction ends to allow dust to settle. However, don't wait more than a week—fine particles embed deeper into surfaces over time. For new San Diego construction, coordinate cleaning with your contractor's punch list timeline.
How much does post-construction cleaning cost in San Diego?
Post-construction cleaning in San Diego typically costs $0.15-$0.35 per square foot, or $300-$700 for a standard home. Major renovations or new builds may run $500-$1,000+. The price depends on project scope, debris level, and whether it's rough clean, final clean, or touch-up.
Can you clean construction dust yourself?
Yes, but it requires proper equipment and techniques. Construction dust (especially from drywall, concrete, or tile cutting) is extremely fine and can damage your HVAC system and lungs if not handled properly. If the project involved hazardous materials like lead paint or asbestos, always hire certified professionals.
What's the difference between rough clean and final clean?
Rough clean happens after framing and drywall but before final finishes—it removes large debris and bulk dust. Final clean occurs after all work is complete and handles detailed cleaning of fixtures, windows, and surfaces. Most homeowners need final clean; rough clean is typically the contractor's responsibility.
Just Finished a Renovation?
Let Metla House Cleaning handle the post-construction cleanup. Our San Diego team has equipment and experience to get your new space move-in ready—fast.
Art Machekin is the founder of Metla House Cleaning. Before starting the company, Art worked as a professional cleaner — hands-on experience that gives him a deep understanding of the techniques and details that matter most in delivering a spotless home.