Alright, you've got a stucco project on your hands in Roseville. Maybe it's a repair, maybe a whole new look. Whatever it is, you're probably wondering how to find someone good, someone you can trust. It's not always easy, I know. I've been doing this a long time at Roseville Stucco & Plastering, and I've seen the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. So, let's talk about how you can avoid the ugly and get a solid job done.
Questions to Ask Every Stucco Contractor
When you're talking to a potential contractor, don't be shy. You're hiring them for a big job, and you deserve to know what you're getting into. Here are the questions I'd ask if I were in your shoes:
- Can you show me proof of current licensing and insurance? This isn't optional. Contractors need to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) for stucco (C-35 or B-general with stucco experience) and carry general liability and workers' compensation insurance. If they balk, walk away.
- How long have you been in business, specifically with stucco? Someone who's been around for a while generally knows their stuff. Stucco isn't something you learn overnight, is it?
- Do you offer a warranty on your work? If so, what does it cover and for how long? A good contractor stands behind their work. Get the warranty details in writing, always.
- Can you provide references from recent, local projects? Talk to these folks. Ask them if the job was on time, on budget, and if they were happy with the communication.
- What's your typical process for a project like mine? They should be able to clearly explain the steps, from prep to finish. This shows they've got a system.
- Who will be doing the actual work? Your employees or subcontractors? It's not necessarily a deal-breaker if they use subs, but you need to know who's responsible and if those subs are also properly licensed and insured.
- How do you handle unforeseen issues or change orders? Things can pop up. You want to know they have a fair process for dealing with them, not just tacking on surprise charges.
What to Look for in a Quote
You'll get a few quotes, and they're not always easy to compare apples to apples. Here's what I recommend you scrutinize:
- Detail, detail, detail. A good quote isn't just a single number. It should break down the scope of work: surface preparation, materials (type of stucco, lath, trim, sealants), number of coats, finish texture, cleanup, and any specific repairs. If it's vague, that's a problem.
- Material specifications. Does it specify the brand and type of stucco? Are they using quality materials or the cheapest stuff they can find? This makes a huge difference in durability, especially with our hot Roseville summers and occasional wet winters.
- Payment schedule. A reasonable payment schedule usually involves a deposit (often 10% or $1,000, whichever is less, by law for home improvement contracts), progress payments, and a final payment upon completion and your satisfaction. Be wary of anyone asking for a huge upfront payment.
- Exclusions. What's NOT included? Are they responsible for moving plants or furniture? What about permits? Make sure there are no nasty surprises.
- Permits. For significant stucco work, especially if it involves structural changes or replacing large sections, a permit from the City of Roseville Building Division might be required. Your contractor should know this and include it in the plan or clearly state if it's your responsibility.
Red Flags You Can't Ignore
Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. Here are some definite red flags:
- High-pressure sales tactics.