How to prepare for a new construction project

Hey there, fellow homeowners! So, you’re all set to dive into that exciting construction project, but wait – have you thought about the potential dust storm that could follow? Don’t let dust rain on your construction parade! Before you even pick up that hammer or your general contractor comes, let’s talk about some down-to-earth, practical steps to keep your space clean and your furniture dust-free. We’re talking about using plastic sheets to shield your beloved furnishings, pre-taped masking film to keep non-construction spots sealed, and drop cloths to create smooth, dust-free pathways.

1. Safeguarding Furniture with Plastic Sheets: Before the construction activities commence, it’s essential to shield your furniture and belongings from potential dust and debris. Plastic sheeting serves as an effective barrier against airborne particles. Follow these steps:

Assessment: Identify the furniture and items that need protection. This could include delicate surfaces, furniture, electronic equipment, and décor pieces.
Cleaning: Clean and dust the items to be covered. This ensures that no residual dirt or particles get trapped under the plastic sheet.
Proper Coverage: Cut plastic sheeting to size and drape it over the furniture, securing the edges to prevent any shifting.
Secure Enclosure: For larger items or valuable pieces, consider creating an enclosed space with the plastic sheeting. Seal the edges securely using tape or clips.

There are many types of plastic sheets available, the most common ones are utility dropsheet and heavy duty for construction. Before we get into the specifics, it’s important to note the metric for measuring plastic thickness, mil. 1 mil is 0.001 inches, thicker plastics will have a more difficult time tearing and are less rigid. The utility drop sheet is usually 1 mil or less in thickness. It has maximum flexibility and form shape of any furniture. This is perfect for covering beds, desk, chairs that have many angle and need light coverage. However, the light coverage is only great for preventing dust and light overspray, if the site area will undergo popcorn removal, heavy spraying or patching, we would recommend heavy-duty plastic sheeting. Heavy-duty plastic sheeting is usually double in thickness at 2mil. 2 mil plastic sheeting is less rigid but unlikely to tear during usage. It’s the perfect tool for covering heavy construction areas that need extra protection. If you are in the market to buy plastic sheet, you can order them ahead from Nuwa Surface or buy at your nearest home improvement store

2. Sealing Non-Construction Areas with Pre-Taped Masking Film: Now, let’s play imaginary boundaries. We want the construction zone to stay the star of the show, while other areas take a backseat. Here’s how:

Mapping Boundaries: Visualize where you want construction and where you don’t. Your imagination, your rules.

Applying Masking Film: Get that pre-taped masking film ready. Tape them to the ceiling and unroll them like a red carpet along the borders you’ve set.

Tight Seal: Stick but don’t apply too much pressure. If too much pressure is apply, it may rip off the paint when removed afterwards.

Clean Removal: When removing, take the tape by the end and slowly remove it at a 45-degree angle. This will reduce the chance of peeling paint away.

3. Creating Dust-Free Pathways with Drop Cloths: Now, let’s talk about paths. With all the hustle and bustle, we don’t want dust getting cozy on your floors. Here’s the scoop:

Pathway Planning: Channel your inner cartographer. Figure out where everyone and everything will be moving during this construction dance.

Drop Cloth Placement: Lay those drop cloths down on your mapped-out paths. It’s like rolling out the red carpet, minus the red, and definitely minus the paparazzi.

Regular Maintenance: Don’t forget to give those drop cloths a little shake every now and then. Think of it as giving your construction site a mini-dust storm – in a controlled and way less dramatic fashion.