You've just completed your renovations. The kitchen looks great, the bathroom sparkles, and your new floors are impeccable. But have you thought about what's lurking in your air ducts?
Every year, the City of Montreal issues over 25,000 renovation permits. That's thousands of homes where gypsum is cut, walls sanded and structures demolished. And all this dust? It ends up exactly where you think it will: all over your ventilation system.
The question we're constantly asked at Vortex Air is: «Is it really necessary to clean ducts after renovations?» The short answer: yes, absolutely. The long answer, with all the details that will convince you to act, is what we'll cover in this guide.
Because breathing in gypsum dust for months after your beautiful work isn't exactly the result you were looking for.
Why Montreal renovations leave your air ducts contaminated
Renovations create a massive amount of airborne particles. We're not just talking about big, visible dust - we're talking about fine particles that float in the air for hours on end and settle everywhere, including inside your ducts.
Even if your contractor has done an excellent job of protecting you with plastics and tape, dust still finds its way in. It gets under doors, through air returns, and into every nook and cranny of your ventilation system.
According to Health Canada, indoor air can be up to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air after renovation work. That's not an exaggeration - it's the measurable reality of what happens when you cut, sand and demolish inside an enclosed space.
Invisible enemies: gypsum dust, plaster and fine particles (PM2.5)
Gypsum dust is particularly problematic. These fine particles remain suspended in the air for hours after the work has been completed. Your ventilation system draws in this air and distributes these particles to every room in the house.
Plaster and joint compounds contain chemical additives. When sanded, they create an ultrafine dust that irritates the respiratory tract. If you've ever felt that dry throat and coughing sensation after work, this is it.
PM2.5 particles (fine particles less than 2.5 microns in size) are the most dangerous. They are so small that they can penetrate deep into your lungs and even enter your bloodstream. Renovations generate large quantities of PM2.5.
Paint, even «low-emission» versions, gives off volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These vapors mix with dust in your ducts, creating a sticky layer that traps even more contaminants.
When insulation materials are cut or handled, they release fibers. These fibers settle in your ducts and can circulate in your home for months if not removed.
The Institut national de santé publique du Québec (INSPQ) confirms that prolonged exposure to these contaminants significantly increases allergic and respiratory symptoms. It's not just uncomfortable - it's a real risk to your health.
Hidden risks for your health and your ventilation system
Children are the most vulnerable. Their developing respiratory systems react more strongly to airborne irritants. If your child develops a persistent cough or asthma symptoms after your renovations, take a look at your air ducts.
Pets suffer too. They breathe faster than we do, and spend more time close to the ground where heavy particles settle. Your cat or dog probably inhales more contaminants than you do.
For your HVAC system, it's a nightmare. Dust clogs ducts, reduces airflow, and forces your system to work harder. The result? Your energy bills go up and your equipment ages faster.
Statistics show that around a third of Montreal households have poor indoor air quality. After renovations, this figure rises dramatically if ducts are not cleaned.
Your system's filters will quickly become clogged. Even if you change them regularly, they can't do anything about the dust that's already accumulated IN the ducts. These are two separate problems requiring two separate solutions.
Have your air ducts inspected free of charge in Montreal. At Vortex Air, we come to you with our endoscopic cameras, show you exactly what's lurking in your ducts, and give you honest advice. No pressure, just the truth.
Is it really necessary to decontaminate after renovations? (Yes, here's why)
We understand the hesitation. You've just spent thousands of dollars on renovations, and now you're told you need to invest even more to clean your ducts. But here's why it's not an optional expense.
The facts supported by the experts [Protégez-Vous, INSPQ, RBQ].
The Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) explicitly recommends that ventilation systems be cleaned after major work, particularly involving gypsum or plaster. It's not just advice - it's in their directives under articles 15.7 and 15.8.
The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) makes it clear that renovations are one of the main trigger events for professional cleaning. Their industry standards classify construction work as a «high contamination risk» situation.
Protégez-Vous, in their guide to indoor air quality, points out that neglecting post-renovation cleaning is one of the most common mistakes made by Quebec homeowners. They recommend professional cleaning within 30 days of completion.
Yet only 20 to 30% of homeowners have their ducts cleaned after renovations. This is a huge under-penetration of the market, often caused by a lack of awareness rather than informed choice.
The INSPQ confirms that gypsum and plaster particles can remain suspended in ducts for months, even years. Without intervention, you'll continue to breathe in these contaminants long after your renovations are complete.
Common myths to avoid (and why they're dangerous)
MYTH #1: «If I don't see dust, it's clean».»
False. The most dangerous particles are the ones you can't see. PM2.5 are invisible to the naked eye but cause the worst respiratory problems. Your ducts can be heavily contaminated without any visible signs.
MYTH #2: «My filters will catch all the dust».»
Standard filters catch large particles entering the system. They do absolutely nothing for the dust already accumulating in the ducts. And after renovations, your ducts are literally lined with debris.
MYTH #3: «My contractor did clean renovations».»
Even the most meticulous contractors can't completely prevent the dispersion of dust. It's physically impossible. Cutting gypsum generates particles that become airborne. These particles travel throughout the house via air currents.
MYTH #4: «I can clean my own ducts».»
No. Vacuuming your ventilation grilles may remove 5% of contamination. The rest requires professional equipment - rotary brushes, HEPA suction-pulse systems, and the expertise to reach every section of the network.
The INSPQ points out that DIY cleaning attempts can even exacerbate the problem by further dispersing particles without adequately capturing them. You create a cloud of contaminants without actually decontaminating.
Post-reno checklist (RBQ + health)
Here are the essential steps to follow after your work:
- Let the system shut down during heavy work If possible, turn off your HVAC system during sanding and cutting. This limits (but does not eliminate) the amount of dust drawn into the ducts.
- Wait 24-48 hours after completion of work Allow dust to settle. Clean all visible surfaces. Vacuum with a HEPA filter. But understand that this only treats surfaces - not the inside of your ducts.
- Have your ducts inspected by camera This is the only way to see the true extent of the contamination. A visual inspection of the grids tells you nothing about the condition inside the network.
- Plan professional cleaning with HEPA equipment Choose a certified company (INVC, NADCA) that uses the suction-pulsion method with HEPA filtration. Insist on a before-and-after photo report.
- Request a full report for your files This document can be useful if you're selling your home, for insurance purposes, or simply for peace of mind. Keep it with your other renovation documents.
Download our RBQ checklist - it's free! A detailed PDF guide that lists each step, with checkboxes and explanatory notes. Print it out and follow it after your next job.
How much does post-renovation decontamination cost in Montreal?
Let's talk money. Because this is often where homeowners hesitate.
Average rates and factors influencing prices
For a typical 1,500-square-foot home in Montreal, expect to pay between 400 $ and 700 $ for a complete post-renovation cleaning. This is more expensive than routine maintenance because the contamination is more extensive.
If your renovations have generated a lot of dust-demolition of walls, intensive sanding of floors, major drywall work-add about 20% to these rates. The amount of debris to be removed requires more time and effort.
Factors influencing price include:
The size of your system - More ducts = more cleaning time. A large bungalow with a finished basement costs more than a two-bedroom condo.
Accessibility - Hard-to-reach conduits or complex systems with several branches require more work.
Type of renovation - Light paintwork is less contaminating than intensive demolition and sanding.
The initial state - If your ducts have never been cleaned and you're adding renovation dust on top of years of accumulated dirt, it gets more complex.
Additional services - Cleaning the air exchanger, bathroom fan or other components is added to the base price.
The difference between routine cleaning and post-work cleaning is important. Routine maintenance removes mainly normal household dust. Post-renovation, we're talking about construction debris, encrusted gypsum particles, and much denser contamination.
The true cost of doing nothing
Here's what it costs to NOT clean your ducts after renovations:
On health: Allergy and asthma symptoms persist. Doctor visits, medications, missed days of school or work - it all adds up quickly. Studies show a 30% reduction in allergic symptoms after professional cleaning.
On energy: A clogged system works 15 to 25% harder to maintain temperature. On your annual heating and air-conditioning bill, that's easily 200 $ to 400 $ more. In just a few years, you've paid for the equivalent of cleaning in pure energy waste.
On the equipment: Your furnace and air conditioner age faster when they're constantly forcing against clogged ducts. Replacing a furnace 5 years early means thousands of dollars lost.
On your insurance: Some insurers require proof of proper maintenance. If you have an air quality problem later and it's discovered that you neglected post-renovation cleaning, your claim could be jeopardized.
On resale value: Potential buyers who have the house inspected and discover contaminated ducts may ask for a price reduction or withdraw from the offer altogether.
Seen in this light, 400 $ to 700 $ for professional cleaning isn't an expense - it's an investment that pays for itself quickly.
Get a free estimate in 2 minutes. Fill out our online form or call us directly. We'll give you a clear price based on your specific situation. No commitment, no pressure.
How professional air duct decontamination works
Transparency is important. Here's exactly how we do it at Vortex Air when we clean ducts after renovations.
Key steps in the Vortex Air process (INVC / NADCA certified)
Step 1: Inspection by endoscopic camera
We always start by looking. Our high-resolution camera allows us to inspect every section of your ductwork. We show you the images in real time - you see exactly what we see.
This inspection tells us where the contamination is heaviest, whether certain sections need special attention, and what equipment will be needed. We take photos beforehand to document the initial state.
Step 2: Suction-pulse cleaning (SFP) with HEPA filtration
This is the heart of the process. We create powerful negative pressure in your system with our commercial HEPA equipment. That means the air is drawn TO our machine, never pushed toward your home.
Rotating brushes are inserted into each duct section. These brushes mechanically dislodge all dust, gypsum debris and particles embedded in the walls. Anything we loosen is immediately sucked up and captured by our HEPA filters.
HEPA filters capture 99.97% of 0.3 micron particles. That includes all particles of gypsum, plaster and even the finest PM2.5. Nothing gets back into your home.
Step 3: Sanitization and disinfection
For renovations that have generated a lot of dust, or if residual moisture is detected, we apply a Health Canada-approved sanitizer. This is an optional but recommended step to ensure that your ducts are truly clean.
We use a misting technique that reaches all interior surfaces. The product eliminates bacteria and prevents mold growth if moisture was present during the work.
Step 4: Before-and-after photo report
We redo a complete inspection with the camera. You see the results: clean pipes, no debris, no build-up. The difference is dramatic and reassuring.
The report we give you includes all photos, sections cleaned, products used (if applicable), and our recommendations for future maintenance. It's your proof of professional service.
Step 5: Check airflow
We make sure your system breathes properly. Air flow should be optimal after cleaning. If we detect circulation problems, we'll tell you honestly - even if it requires other interventions we don't offer.
The whole process usually takes between 3 and 5 hours for an average home. We protect your floors and furniture while we work. We clean up after ourselves. You'll find your home clean, with a ventilation system that works like new.
What distinguishes a certified company in Montréal
In Quebec, anyone with a vacuum cleaner can claim to clean ducts. But certified professionals are a different story.
INVC (Institut National de Ventilation et de Climatisation) certification guarantees that our technicians have received specialized training and follow strict protocols. At Vortex Air, our entire team is INVC trained and certified.
NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) certification is the North American industry standard. We are currently in the process of obtaining this certification to add an extra layer of credibility to our service.
RBQ compliance is mandatory in Quebec for this type of work. Sections 15.7 and 15.8 of the Building Code govern the cleaning and decontamination of ventilation systems. We comply with these requirements to the letter.
The Corporation des maîtres mécaniciens en tuyauterie du Québec (CMMTQ) also sets standards that serious professionals follow. We follow their recommendations for maintenance and decontamination.
When you hire a certified company, you get:
- Trained technicians who know what they're doing
- Appropriate professional equipment (not just a commercial vacuum cleaner)
- Liability insurance to protect you
- Recourse if something goes wrong
- A guarantee on the work done
Certified service, guaranteed residue-free - contact Vortex Air. Call 514-214-7492 (available 24/7) or visit vortexair.ca. We pride ourselves on our local expertise and transparent approach.
When should you schedule your post-renovation cleaning in Montreal?
Timing is everything. Here's when to act for best results.
The right time according to the experts (autumn or 1 month after work)
Ideally, schedule the cleaning about a month after your renovations are completed. This will allow..:
Stabilizing dust - The finest particles are eventually deposited. You've had time to clean all visible surfaces.
To the smell of paint - VOCs from paints and varnishes have had time to evaporate to a large extent.
System to function normally - You've reactivated your heating or air conditioning, and you know if any symptoms or odors appear.
If you're finishing your renovations in summer or early fall, now's the perfect time. You clean up before the heating goes on full blast for the Montreal winter. Keeping clean air circulating during the 6 months when your house is closed makes all the difference.
Spring is also a good option, especially if you're renovating in winter. You clean up after the heating season and before the air conditioning kicks in.
Humidity in Montreal is an important factor. Our summers are humid, which can exacerbate problems if gypsum dust traps moisture in your ducts. Cleaning in the fall eliminates this risk before winter.
Neighborhoods like Ahuntsic, Rosemont, Brossard, Laval and Longueuil all have their own particularities, but the recommendation remains the same: clean within a month of your renovation, ideally in the fall.
Future maintenance to maintain good air quality
Once your ducts are clean after renovations, maintain this air quality with regular maintenance.
The general recommendation is every 3 to 5 years for preventive cleaning. But after renovations, you're back to square one with a clean system. Your next cleaning can wait for the regular cycle.
Statistics show that 65% of Quebec renovators are between the ages of 40 and 60 - the age when you invest in your property and take maintenance seriously. This is also the age when respiratory problems and allergies become more of a concern.
Change your filters regularly - at least every 3 months. After renovations, change them more often for the first few months. You'll probably find that they get dirty faster as the last residual particles are captured.
Have your HVAC system serviced annually. A qualified technician can detect signs of re-contamination or emerging problems before they become serious.
Keep an eye on humidity in your basement. A dehumidifier, especially in summer, will prevent mold from forming in your ducts. Montreal is a humid city - managing this humidity is essential to air quality.
Plan your pre-winter cleaning today! Spaces fill up fast in autumn as everyone prepares their homes for winter. At Vortex Air, we offer service 7 days a week, but book early to get the time slot that's right for you.
FAQ - Post-reno decontamination in Montreal
Is it compulsory to clean air ducts after work?
Legally, it's not mandatory in Quebec. But the RBQ strongly recommends it in its guidelines, and many insurers may require it to maintain your full coverage. Beyond legal obligations, it's a question of health and common sense. If you've just invested thousands in renovations, protect that investment with proper cleaning.
What are the signs of a contaminated duct after renovation?
Signs include: a fine layer of white dust that constantly returns to your furniture, a plaster or construction odor when the system is running, an increase in allergic or respiratory symptoms, ventilation grilles that are visibly dusty even after cleaning, and reduced airflow at the vents.
Can I do the decontamination myself?
We strongly advise against it. Professional cleaning requires specialized equipment - commercial HEPA vacuums, rotary brushes, and the expertise to reach every section of the network. Attempting DIY risks dispersing more dust without really decontaminating. And you lose professional documentation that may be important for your insurance.
How long does the procedure last?
For an average home (1,500 to 2,000 sq. ft.), allow between 3 and 5 hours. Larger homes with complex systems can take 6 to 8 hours. We work efficiently without compromising quality. You can stay at home while we work - we take care of everything.
Is it covered by home insurance?
Rarely, unless the contamination is the result of a claim (water damage during renovations, for example). However, some insurers may require proof of post-renovation cleaning to keep your policy up to date. Check with your agent. The professional report we provide can serve as official documentation.
What is the impact on allergies and health?
The impact is often spectacular. Customers regularly report: significant reduction in coughing and sneezing, better sleep, less morning congestion, reduced use of allergy medication, and a general feeling of fresher, cleaner air. Asthmatic children often show the most marked improvements.
What's the difference between cleaning and decontamination?
Regular cleaning removes normal household dust - hair, pet dander, exterior dust. Post-renovation decontamination specifically targets construction debris, embedded gypsum particles, and industrial contaminants. It's more intensive, uses specialized techniques, and often includes a sanitizing step with approved products.
Which Montreal neighborhoods do you serve?
We serve all of Greater Montreal and surrounding areas: Montreal (all boroughs), Laval, North Shore (Terrebonne, Mascouche, Repentigny), South Shore (Brossard, Longueuil, Saint-Hubert, Boucherville), and neighboring regions. We travel up to 50 km from our Montreal base. Give us a call - if we can serve you, we will.
