So, you need some stucco work done on your Hayward home. Maybe it’s a repair, a full re-stucco, or a new addition. Whatever it is, you want it done right, and you don’t want to get ripped off. I get it. I’ve been doing this a long time, and I’ve seen my share of good work and, frankly, some real disasters. Here’s what you need to know before you sign on the dotted line.
Questions to Ask Every Stucco Contractor
This isn't a casual chat. You're interviewing someone who's going to be working on your biggest investment. Don't be shy. Ask these questions:
- Are you licensed and insured? This is non-negotiable. Ask for their California contractor's license number (CSLB). You can look it up online right then and there. And make sure they have general liability and workers' compensation insurance. If they don't have both, walk away. Period.
- How long have you been doing stucco specifically? Not just general construction, but stucco. It’s a specialized trade. Someone who mostly frames houses might not be the best stucco guy.
- Can you provide references from recent jobs? And actually call them. Ask about the quality of work, if they stayed on schedule, and if there were any unexpected costs.
- What kind of warranty do you offer on your work? A good contractor stands behind their work. You want to know what's covered and for how long.
- What's your process for protecting my property? Stucco work can be messy. How will they protect your windows, landscaping, and driveway?
- Who will be doing the actual work? Your employees or subcontractors? This matters for accountability and quality control. If they use subs, ask about their vetting process.
What to Look for in a Stucco Quote
You’re going to get a few quotes, and they won't all look the same. Don't just pick the cheapest one. That's a classic mistake.
- Detailed Scope of Work: Does it clearly outline everything they're going to do? For example, if it's a re-stucco, does it include removal of old stucco? Inspection of the substrate? Application of a vapor barrier (like two layers of Grade D paper or a synthetic equivalent)? Scratch coat, brown coat, and finish coat? What kind of finish coat?
- Materials Specified: What brand of stucco are they using? What type of lath? What kind of weep screeds and casing beads? Specifics matter. If it just says