Construction
Builders clean: the three stages explained
· 4 min read · Howzat Cleaning Experts
Rough, detail and final what happens at each stage of a builders clean, and when to book them.
Why builders cleans are staged
Construction dust doesn't settle once. Sanding and cutting leave fine particles in the air that keep landing for days, so a single clean straight after the trades leave rarely holds up to a handover inspection.
Stage 1: Rough clean
Done once the main trades are finished. Leftover materials, offcuts and packaging are removed, protective films and stickers come off, and floors get a first sweep and vacuum. The aim is to clear the space so detail work is possible.
Stage 2: Detail clean
The slow, careful stage. Every surface is cleaned: inside cabinets, window tracks, light fittings, tiles and fixtures. Paint spots, plaster and silicone smears are removed without scratching new glass, stone or tapware.
Stage 3: Final presentation clean
Booked as close to handover as possible. Resettled dust is removed, glass and fixtures are polished, and floors get their final pass. This is the clean the client actually sees.
When to book
Book the clean when you lock in your handover date and confirm a few days out. The most common problem is cleaners arriving while trades are still working which means paying for the same clean twice.
