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Remodeling with a clean site
- Melissa Rappaport Schifman
Many people dread the thought of remodeling their home because of the mess it creates. Trying to keep it clean can be hard, but here are some tips to consider:
- Choose a subcontractor that specifically lists end-of-day clean up as part of the job, or add it to the proposal and make sure they know that's important to you.
- Put plastic wrap or some sort of covering (taped) over all air returns and supplies in the rooms where work is performed. This helps ensure sawdust and other particles do not get into the air duct system — you don't want to be breathing that stuff in later on.
- Put floor mats down and cover the carpet with plastic (taped down) to protect the carpet not only from construction dust, but also from absorbing any harmful paint or sealant odors.
- Do a pre-occupancy flush for at least 24 hours to air out the house, running the air and all fans on the highest setting. If it's nice enough outside (and secure), all doors should be open as well. This ensures you don't move into a stinky home. That new smell is not good for our lungs.
- Make sure the cleaning supplies used are non-toxic.
- Choose a waste company/dumpster that recycles. This may not make any difference in how clean the site is, but it makes a difference in how much material is sent to the landfill - and that is a green benefit!
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Melissa Rappaport Schifman
Melissa provides sustainability consulting services for businesses in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Melissa is also the founder of Green Intention LLC, where she writes and blogs about her experience in getting her own home LEED Gold certified--and then trying to live more sustainably in the home. She chairs her congregation’s Task Force for Sustainability, has her MBA, Master's in Public Policy, and is a LEED AP for Homes.
