Construction is always a messy process, so why is it necessary to consistently clean during all phases of construction?
Pre-Construction Cleaning
During pre-construction, the land is assessed for potential contamination issues which may arise as it is prepared for building construction. This initial assessment allows construction companies to bring in remedial environmental cleaning service companies to assist with preventing dangerous runoff from contaminating water sources that are both above and below the surface.
As the area is cleared for grading, there may be large debris or other hazards in the area. Construction cleaning companies will come to safely remove these items to ensure both workers and equipment stay safe and unharmed. They will also help to take care of the waste generated from the pre-construction process to reduce the amount of excessive dust generated through this phase.
Continuous Construction Cleaning
While the structure is built, continuous cleaning is necessary to remove the remaining dust from the initial pre-construction phase, ensuring each addition is secure and level. Any debris or remaining materials from the pre-construction phase are also removed to keep the work environment safe for the workers. A part of this process includes removing any VOCs generated prior to enclosing the structure to keep the air as clean as possible to protect the health of the workers.
Once the initial structure is built, the cleaning focuses on the interior of the building. Prior to installing the interior wall and ceiling materials, having a construction cleaning team come to clean dust and debris from the exposed HVAC parts helps with preventing issues for the future tenants. Dust and debris removal should be repeated once again prior to installing flooring to ensure lasting adhesion for any glued flooring, while ensuring as level of a surface for all flooring types. Cleaning prior to flooring installation allows for any loose screws and nails to be cleared, preventing harm to workers and anyone occupying the building in the future. Cleaning the walls prior to painting removes any lingering dust that can leave a rough finish and cause the paint to not adhere correctly.
Beyond safety for workers and the more effective application of construction materials, continuous cleaning throughout the construction process aids in the inspection process. Clean worksites aid inspectors in assessing each area of concern in a more efficient manner, helping to prevent delays due to inspections.
Pre-Move In Cleaning
Once construction has been completed and all of the finishes have been installed, it is important to have a pre-move in cleaning completed. This ensures any remaining construction materials and dust from the construction process have been removed. Having the building thoroughly dusted prior to move-in allows as much debris to be removed as possible.
A recommended service to have completed post-construction is HVAC and duct cleaning. Because the system is installed in the middle of the construction process, dust and debris can quickly accumulate within it and cause damage to the system once it is fully active. A complete HVAC system clean not only prevents issues with the system itself, but it prevents the circulation of construction dust throughout the building. Uncleared dust can aggravate allergies and cause breathing issues for the new occupants and visitors as well as damage equipment housed in the facility.
Summary
Construction is a messy and dangerous process. Cleaning throughout the process allows for a safer environment for workers and surrounding areas, quicker inspections, and better finish applications. Pre-move in cleaning prevents issues for future occupants by ensuring as much construction dust is removed from the surfaces and HVAC system as possible, as well as removing any remaining construction debris. Clear Air Enviro-Services is proud to offer all three of these services to large scale data centers throughout the United States.