After Builders Cleaning FAQ
Construction dust gets everywhere and behaves differently to household dust. These are the questions we get from Derby homeowners and builders about post-construction cleaning, including the bits that catch people out the first time.
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Construction dust gets everywhere and behaves differently to household dust. These are the questions we get from Derby homeowners and builders about post-construction cleaning, including the bits that catch people out the first time.
Stages and scope
What is the difference between a 'rough' and 'sparkle' clean?
A rough clean (sometimes called builders' clean) is the first pass after the main work is done: bulk debris removed, large dust deposits vacuumed, surfaces wiped down. A sparkle clean (also called handover clean or final clean) is the detailed second pass: every surface polished, internal windows done, fittings detailed, the property ready for handover or move-in. We offer both.
Do I need one clean or two?
If the work is small (a single room refurb, a kitchen replacement) one detailed clean is usually enough. If the project is large (extension, multi-room renovation, new build) two cleans usually work out better and cheaper than trying to do it in one. Construction dust keeps falling out of the air for several days after work finishes, which is why a single-pass clean often isn't quite enough on big projects.
What does after builders cleaning include?
Removal of bulk dust, debris and packaging. Vacuuming all surfaces, including ceilings, walls, light fittings, skirtings and floors. Wiping down every surface with appropriate cleaner. Removing paint splashes, grout haze, sealant residue and adhesive marks where possible. Cleaning windows internally, frames, sills and tracks. Final detailed clean of kitchen and bathroom fittings. Floor finish appropriate to the surface (vacuum and mop).
Dust, residue and what comes off
Why does construction dust keep coming back?
Plaster and concrete dust is fine, dry and electrostatic. It clings to surfaces and stays airborne for days. Even after a thorough clean, dust hidden in vents, behind radiators or in upholstery can resettle. This is why we recommend two cleans on bigger projects, with a few days between them to let the air settle.
Can you remove paint and plaster splashes from windows and floors?
Most of the time, yes. Fresh splashes (within a few days) come off cleanly. Cured paint and plaster need scraping with the right tool to avoid scratching. We test in a hidden area first. Splashes on porous surfaces (untreated wood, fabric) sometimes can't be fully removed.
Will you clean inside vents and ducts?
Surface vents and grilles, yes. Internal ductwork is specialist work and not part of after builders cleaning. If extensive ductwork was opened during the project, ask the builder about a separate duct clean before the sparkle clean.
Booking, time and cost
How long does after builders cleaning take?
A single-room refurbishment is usually a half-day. A kitchen or bathroom replacement, a full day. A whole-house renovation or new build, 1 to 2 days depending on size and condition. We send a team sized to complete the job in the planned window.
How much does after builders cleaning cost in Derby?
After builders cleaning is priced at our standard £25 per hour rate, with the time estimated by visit or photo because every project is different. As a rough guide: a single-room sparkle clean is usually 4 to 6 hours, a kitchen or bathroom 5 to 8 hours, and a whole three-bed house 12 to 20 hours often split across two visits. We always give an estimate upfront and stick to it.
How soon can you attend after the builders finish?
Usually within 2 to 4 working days. We can sometimes do next-day for emergency handovers. The slot fills quickly during peak renovation seasons (spring and autumn), so book as soon as you have a finish date from the builder.
Related guides
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Read moreDust after renovation
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Read moreWhat to expect after builders cleaning
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Read moreDeep cleaning service
If a sparkle clean isn't quite enough.
Read moreMove-in cleaning
Combine after-builders with move-in for new properties.
Read moreHave questions?
We are happy to help. Call us or send an enquiry and we will get back to you.