Finishing a building project is exciting, but the builders leave behind a layer of fine cement dust, paint splashes, plaster and packaging. Post-construction cleaning (also called after-builders cleaning) turns a building site into a home. Use this checklist for new builds and renovations in Brufut, Bijilo, Brusubi or anywhere in The Gambia.
Before you start
- Make sure all the building, electrical, plumbing and painting work is finished.
- Wear a dust mask, gloves and closed shoes. Cement dust irritates the lungs and skin.
- Remove large debris, offcuts and packaging first.
Stage 1: Dry dust removal, from the top down
- Ceilings, fans and light fittings
- The tops of doors, frames and windows
- Walls, switches and sockets (with the power off)
- Vacuum floors with a vacuum suitable for fine dust. A household vacuum can be damaged by cement dust.
Stage 2: Residue removal
- Paint on glass: soften it with soapy water and remove it with a new, flat razor scraper held at a low angle.
- Cement on tiles: use a product made for cement residue, test it on a hidden tile first, and never use acid on marble or natural stone.
- Remove stickers and labels from windows and fittings.
Stage 3: Detailed cleaning room by room
- Kitchen: inside cabinets and drawers, worktops, sink, taps and appliances.
- Bathrooms: toilets, basins, showers, tiles, grout, mirrors and taps.
- Windows: tracks (they fill with sand and cement), frames, sills and glass, inside and out.
- Floors: scrub, rinse and dry. A machine scrubber gives the best result on large tiled areas.
Stage 4: Final check
Run a clean white cloth over surfaces. If it comes away grey, the dust is not gone. Fine dust often settles again a day later, so a quick final wipe before moving in is worth it.
When to call professionals
For multi-storey buildings, high windows, large tiled areas or a tight handover deadline, a professional team saves days of work. First Arch inspects the site, agrees a clear scope and timeline, and hands over a property that is ready to occupy.
Safety first: always test products on a hidden area, follow the label, and never mix bleach with other cleaning products.
