Cleanse before you build
Think of cleansing as wiping the counter before you cook. Before a ritual, after an argument, when you move into a new place, or when a room just feels heavy, a quick cleanse gives you a clean surface to work on. Smoke from a bundle or resin is the classic way. If smoke isn't an option, a spray of Florida Water or a floor wash made with cleansing herbs does the same job, quietly.
Start at the back of the house and work toward the front door, then open it and let the old energy out. After that, protect what you've cleared with something from protection and warding. For more ways to clear, see smoke cleansing and our protection and cleansing waters.