The short answer
Scope every surface and residue type, schedule the final clean after the other trades are done, walk and photograph the glass before cleaning starts, agree on methods for construction residue in advance, and finish with a joint walkthrough and sign-off.
What the scope should include
- Glass inside and out, frames, sills and tracks
- Labels, stickers and protective films
- Paint and stain overspray
- Mortar, concrete and cement splash
- Sealant and lubricant smears
- Sealer runoff from masonry and stone
- Metal surfaces at entrances and storefronts
Name each one. Heavy construction residue takes more time than routine cleaning.
Sequencing
- Other trades finish work near the glass
- Glass protection comes off
- Condition walk and photos with the general contractor
- Test area on each glass type, examined before proceeding
- Final clean
- Joint walkthrough, punch list and sign-off
- Handoff to the owner's recurring program
Cleaning before other trades finish means cleaning twice.
Methods for construction residue
NGA guidance recommends against scrapers, abrasives and harsh chemicals on any glass product, and says heat-treated glass needs extra care, because scraping can drag surface particles across it. Agree in advance how each residue will be removed, and follow the glass manufacturer's guidance. See what NGA and GANA guidance says.
A clean handoff
- Before-and-after photos
- A record of any pre-existing damage found at the condition walk
- Punch list closed and signed
- Recommended cadence for the owner's ongoing program
See how to document existing facade damage and scratched glass on a new build: who pays?.
How S&K handles the final clean
S&K's post-construction cleanup covers final-phase glass and site cleaning, removing labels, paint and debris after build-out, and can roll straight into a recurring program for the new building. See post-construction cleanup. Request a quote with your schedule and scope.
