How to use the worksheet
Open lofts hide residue in places an ordinary apartment does not: high ceilings, exposed ductwork, brick faces, steel window frames and the tops of tall shelves. Walk the space with a white cloth or cotton pad and a flashlight, and record what you find before anyone starts cleaning. Each row of the table below is a surface to test.
Work from the top of the room to the floor, since particles settle downward. Use the same wipe test in each spot so your results compare fairly: one firm wipe of about a hand's width, then look at the cloth in daylight. Note color and smell, not just visibility, because some residue leaves little color but carries odor.
Surface log
| Surface | Wipe result (none / light / heavy) | Smell on the cloth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ceiling and beams | Height, finish, access needs | ||
| Exposed ductwork | Painted or bare metal | ||
| Brick wall faces | Sealed or raw | ||
| Steel windows and frames | Film on glass and sills | ||
| Concrete floor | Sealed, stained or bare | ||
| Upholstery and rugs | Washable or not |
Common mistakes when mapping
One frequent mistake is cleaning a test patch before photographing it, which erases the evidence you wanted. Another is testing only at eye level; in a double-height loft the heaviest film often sits on beams and ductwork overhead. If you cannot reach it safely, note the area as untested rather than guessing.
A third mistake is treating every dark mark as smoke. Soot from candles, dust on warm ductwork and old paint staining can look similar. Compare the smell of the cloth, the location and any history you know before deciding.
Before you start the worksheet
Turning the log into a plan
- Sort by heaviness.List the surfaces with heavy residue first; those usually drive time and cost.
- Group by material.Porous brick and raw wood need different methods from steel and sealed concrete.
- Mark what can be removed.Rugs, soft furnishings and shelving can often be cleaned elsewhere.
- Bring the map to providers.Ask each provider to respond to the same log so their scopes line up.
Common questions
Do I need special equipment?
No. A white cloth, a flashlight, a camera and a notebook are enough for a first map.
Should I clean before documenting?
No. Document first so the scope reflects the real condition.
General information for RiNo, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.