So, you're looking at redashing your stucco. Maybe it's looking a little tired, or you've got some minor cracks showing up, especially with our intense Mesa sun beating down on homes out in areas like Leisure World or Sunland Village. It's a smart move to keep your home protected and looking good. But here’s the deal: I’ve seen plenty of folks make some common, and frankly, expensive mistakes when they're planning or hiring for this kind of work. I want to help you steer clear of those.
Mistake #1: Not Understanding the 'Why' Behind the Redash
A lot of homeowners just think, "My stucco looks old, I need new stucco." And while that might be true, you really need to understand why it looks old. Is it just faded and dirty? Or are there underlying issues? If you've got significant cracking, bulging, or areas that sound hollow when you tap them, you might have water intrusion or substrate problems. A redash might cover these up for a bit, but it won't fix the root cause. You'll be right back here in a few years, or worse, dealing with rot and mold. Always get a thorough assessment first. Don't just assume it's cosmetic.
Mistake #2: Going with the Lowest Bid Without Asking Questions
This is a classic. Everyone wants a good deal, I get it. But in stucco, the cheapest bid is almost never the best. When you get a quote that's significantly lower than others, that's a huge red flag. What are they cutting corners on? Are they using cheap materials that won't stand up to our Arizona heat? Are they skipping crucial prep steps like proper cleaning, patching, or applying a bonding agent? Are they even licensed and insured for stucco work? I've seen contractors come in, slap on a thin coat, and disappear. You're left with a shoddy job that fails quickly. Ask for a detailed breakdown of materials, process, and timeline. If they can't provide it, or it seems too vague, walk away.
Mistake #3: Not Checking References or Licensing
It sounds basic, but you'd be surprised how many people skip this. Before you let anyone touch your home, verify their contractor's license with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC). It takes five minutes online. Make sure it's current and that they don't have a history of complaints. Then, ask for references. Not just one, but a few. And actually call them! Ask about the contractor's communication, their cleanup, if they stayed on schedule, and if the final product met expectations. Look at their past work if you can. A reputable company like Mesa Stucco & Plastering will be happy to provide these things because we stand by our work.
Mistake #4: Ignoring the Prep Work
The success of any stucco redashing project is 90% in the prep. If the surface isn't properly cleaned, repaired, and primed, the new stucco won't adhere correctly. I'm talking about power washing, scraping loose paint, repairing existing cracks, and applying a good quality bonding agent. Sometimes, depending on the existing finish, we even need to scratch the surface to give the new material something to grab onto. If a contractor talks about just spraying new stucco right over your old, dirty, cracked surface, that’s a recipe for disaster. The new finish will delaminate, crack, and fail prematurely. You're essentially paying for a temporary facelift that won't last.
Mistake #5: Not Getting a Clear Contract
A handshake and a verbal agreement? Not for a redashing project. You need everything in writing. The contract should clearly outline the scope of work, including specific materials to be used (brand, type, color), the number of coats, the prep work involved, the timeline, payment schedule, warranty information, and cleanup procedures. What happens if they hit a sprinkler line or break a window? Who's responsible? All these details need to be spelled out. This protects both you and the contractor and prevents misunderstandings down the road. Don't sign anything you don't fully understand.
Redashing your stucco is a significant investment in your home. Do your homework, ask the tough questions, and don't rush into anything. You'll be much happier with the results and the longevity of your new stucco finish.