You're looking to update your home's exterior with stucco, maybe fix some cracks, or even put it on a new addition. That's great! Stucco is a fantastic, durable finish, especially here in Garden Grove where we get that mix of hot sun and occasional dampness. But I've seen a lot of folks trip up during the planning and hiring process, and it usually costs them time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.
Not Getting Enough Bids (Or Getting Too Many)
This might sound contradictory, but hear me out. Some homeowners just call the first guy they find online or the one their neighbor used. That's a mistake. You need to compare. But then, there are others who get ten bids. That's also a mistake. You'll just get overwhelmed, and frankly, some contractors won't even bother giving you a serious quote if they know they're one of ten. I recommend three solid, detailed bids. That gives you a good range and enough information to compare apples to apples.
Focusing Only on the Lowest Price
I get it, everyone wants a good deal. But when it comes to stucco, the lowest price is almost never the best deal. There's a reason one bid is significantly lower than the others. It usually means they're cutting corners somewhere. Maybe they're using cheaper materials, skipping crucial steps like proper lath installation or weep screeds, or they're just not as experienced. You don't want to find out a year later that your stucco is cracking because someone rushed the job or used inferior products. Stucco is an investment; you want it done right the first time.
Ignoring the Details in the Bid
This is a big one. Homeowners often just look at the bottom line. You need to read the fine print. What kind of stucco system are they proposing? Is it traditional three-coat, or a synthetic system? What brand of materials? Does the bid include all necessary prep work, like repairing damaged sheathing or waterproofing around windows? Does it include cleanup and haul-away? Sometimes a higher bid includes things that another, cheaper bid leaves out, and you'll end up paying for those