a woman cleaning the window

Post Construction Clean-up: Light Cleaning Phase

Discover the crucial role of the post-construction light cleaning phase in ensuring a spotless, move-in ready property

A construction contractor doesn't usually clean while the work is being done. So people or companies hire a team that offers post-construction cleanup services to do the job. After a building or renovation project, the job of the post-construction clean-up crew includes removing construction dust, debris, and other leftover material.

But a post-construction cleaning is not just about cleaning up after the construction crew has left. It involves more than just cleaning up the usual mess. There's a vital step that a post-construction cleanup crew should never forget: the light cleaning phase.

What is the Light Cleaning Phase?

The light cleaning phase of post-construction cleaning is included in three different phases: Phase 1: Rough Cleaning Phase, Phase 2: Light Cleaning Phase, and Phase 3: Exterior Cleaning Phase or Touch-Up Cleaning. These three phases allow post-construction cleaners to get the best results.    

Among the 3 phases of post-construction clean-up, this one needs more work. It also requires more equipment and tools. This light cleaning phase requires more time than the other three phases because of the deep cleaning of all rooms. In this light cleaning phase, the professional cleaners pay more attention to ensuring each square foot of the property, such as the kitchen and bedroom area, is properly cleaned. Sinks, cabinets and toilets, and other installed items are also being cleaned in this stage. That's why this light cleaning process is not one that you would want to do on your own because it is quite demanding and time-consuming.

a person cleaning the railing

Why is it important?

Since this phase requires more work, it becomes essential. It is in this particular phase that cleaners do a detailed cleaning. The biggest reason why this is an important process is that it ensures that most inner surfaces like air ducts are thoroughly cleaned. This process or phase signals that clients are one step closer to moving in. This cleanup may require additional cleaning supplies that may be an additional expense. It’s also one that can be overlooked, especially if you are not familiar with it or have never done it before.

That is the reason why we have post-construction cleaning services that do the light cleaning phase part of the post-construction clean-up process. This is true for any successful home improvement or construction project.

Cleaning the door handle

What happens during a post-construction light cleaning phase?

During this light cleaning phase, the post-construction cleaning service will pay attention to cleaning baseboards, door frames, mirrors, and all nooks and crannies. Cleaning professionals mop the floors and clean them with the help of special vacuum cleaners.

It is during this phase that the majority of the house such as the bathtub, sink, toilet, and floors are thoroughly taken care of. The bathroom will be scrubbed and disinfected as well.

A professional cleaning company during the post-construction light cleaning phase would usually involve the following post-construction light cleaning services:

  • Using powerful HEPA vacuum cleaning. During the post-construction light cleaning phase, post-construction cleaners use High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuum cleaners highly effective in removing particles like construction dust particles, pollen, pet dander, and dust mites, and smoke that a normal vacuum cleaner cannot do.
  • Carpet cleaning
  • Tile sealing
  • Cleaning the walls to remove any dirt, smudges, or marks
  • Cleaning the insides and exteriors of cabinets, shelves, and other appliances. Post-construction cleaning during the light cleaning phase involves cleaning the cabinets from top to bottom as well as cleaning the baseboard and shelves with the utmost care.
  • Polishing smudges on light fixtures
  • Dusting of lights, heaters, fans, and ceilings, both dry and wet
  • Disinfecting and polishing the floors after they have been cleared of debris and leftover materials
  • Getting rid of stickers and plastic from doors, windows, and furniture
  • Power washing and rinsing the windows and window frames with a pressure washer
  • Duct and vent light cleaning. Post-construction cleaning staff recognizes that air ducts in your home are often a major contributor to the air quality in your home. After the construction process, they can build up construction dust, dirt, and allergens. This can lead to respiratory problems and other illnesses, so the post-construction cleanup crew will take care of it during the light cleaning phase.
  • Threshold cleaning and trim cleaning
  • Addressing any safety issues with the construction contractors, such as leaks and loose wires
  • Additional services
Person holding a checklist


What equipment is used during a post-construction light cleaning phase?

In this post-construction cleaning phase, a lot of equipment and tools will be used. During the light cleaning phase, the professional cleaning company uses various equipment to ensure that each square foot is touched.

While some cleaning jobs require the use of specialized equipment, the majority can be completed successfully with a small set of basic but necessary tools. This involves the following cleanup equipment:

  • microfiber rags
  • neutral cleaners
  • scissor lift (for reaching second story/multi-level facilities or high-level structures and ceilings)
  • pressure washer
  • water/sludge extractor
  • vapor steam cleaner
  • floor care and cleanup machines like auto scrubbers, low and high-speed burnishers, and sweepers
  • ultrasonic cleaners (for cleaning window shades, chandeliers, synthetic plants, fire restoration, or just about anything that will fit in the tank) to state just a few

A well-planned cleaning procedure and professional services cleaning equipment are strongly recommended during the post-cleanup light cleaning phase. Professional cleaners also need to have the right skills which are essential to clean up a space.

A Production Building Solutions (APS) is a full-service cleaning company that specializes in post-construction projects. With over 28 years of experience providing superior service in all types of industries and facilities, you will be provided with comprehensive finish cleaning services on all types of buildings and have a team of professional cleaners who are trained to do the job right.

Corporate Office

A Production Building Solutions
Corporate Office
333 Jackson Plaza,
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103
A Production Building Solutions service areas include Ingham, Lenawee, Livingston, Monroe, Macomb, Livingston, Oakland, Wayne, and Washtenaw Counties, among others, and include the westside of Michigan and Traverse City.