So, you've decided it's time to replace your stucco. Maybe you're seeing some serious cracking, water intrusion, or it just looks tired and dated. Whatever the reason, it's a big project, and you're probably wondering what you're getting into. Don't worry, I've done hundreds of these jobs right here in Orem, and I can tell you exactly what to expect.
How Long Will This Take?
Let's talk about the timeline. A full stucco replacement isn't a weekend DIY job, that's for sure. The schedule can vary quite a bit depending on your house's size, how complex its architectural details are, and, honestly, the weather we get here in Utah Valley. Generally, for an average Orem home – think a 2,000 to 3,000 sq ft two-story – you're looking at anywhere from three to six weeks from start to finish. That includes everything from initial prep to the final cleanup.
- First Meeting & Quote: This usually takes a few days to a week. We come out, check the damage, talk about your options, and put together a detailed proposal.
- Getting a Permit: You'll need a permit from Orem City. This can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on how busy the planning department is. We handle this for you, but it's part of the overall timeline.
- Ordering & Getting Materials: Once the contract's signed and the permit's in hand, we order materials. Stucco, lath, flashing, trim – it all needs to be on-site. This can add another week or so.
- Tear-down & Prep: This is where the real work begins. We'll strip off the old stucco, inspect the sheathing underneath for any hidden damage, make repairs, and install new weather barriers and lath. This phase can take a week to two weeks, depending on what we find once the old stuff is off.
- Putting on the Stucco: This is the layering process. Scratch coat, brown coat, and then the finish coat. Each coat needs time to cure properly, especially with our dry Orem air. This is usually about a week to two weeks of actual application time.
- Cleanup & Final Walkthrough: We clean up the site, haul away debris, and do a final inspection with you. Usually a day or two.
Keep in mind, rain or unexpected cold snaps can push things back. We can't apply stucco in freezing temperatures, and heavy rain can delay curing times. It's just part of working outside, you know?
What's It Like During the Project?
Okay, so what's it actually like having your house restuccoed? It's going to be a construction zone for a bit. Expect some noise, dust, and activity. We'll set up scaffolding around your house, which means some areas of your yard will be inaccessible. We do our best to keep things tidy at the end of each day, but it's not going to be pristine until the job's done.
We'll need access to water and electricity. We'll also need to protect your landscaping, so we'll lay down tarps and plastic sheeting. If you have any delicate plants or features close to the house, we'll discuss how to best protect them during our initial walk-through. Expect to see a dumpster on your property for debris. It's not pretty, but it's necessary.
Communication is key. My crew and I will keep you updated on progress, any unexpected issues, and what to expect day-to-day. If you have questions, just ask. That's what we're here for.
How to Get Your Home Ready
Before we even show up, there are a few things you can do to make the process smoother for everyone:
- Clear the Perimeter: Move any patio furniture, grills, planters, or anything else away from the exterior walls of your house. We need a clear path for scaffolding and our crew.
- Trim Landscaping: If you have bushes or tree branches directly against the house, trim them back. This helps us get to the walls and protects your plants from damage.
- Secure Valuables: Remove anything from walls near the work area inside your home that might be sensitive to vibration. Pictures, shelves, delicate knick-knacks – just take them down for a few weeks.
- Pets & Kids: Keep pets and small children away from the work area. There will be tools, materials, and active construction. Safety first, always.
- Access: Make sure we have clear access to your property for our trucks and equipment. If you have sprinklers, let us know their location so we don't accidentally damage them.
We'll go over all this with you, but getting a head start helps a lot.
Key Questions to Ask Before Signing a Contract
Before you commit to any contractor, make sure you're asking the right questions. This isn't just about the price; it's about making sure you're getting a quality job and a reliable company.
- What's your full scope of work? Make sure the quote details everything: demolition, repairs to sheathing, flashing, weather barriers, lath, number of stucco coats, type of finish, and cleanup. Don't assume anything.
- Are you licensed and insured? This is non-negotiable. You want to see proof of both. Progressive Stucco Co. is fully licensed and insured, and any reputable contractor will be too.
- What kind of warranty do you offer? A good contractor will stand behind their work. Ask about material warranties and a labor warranty.
- How do you handle unexpected issues? Sometimes we uncover dry rot or other structural damage once the old stucco is off. How will they communicate this, and what's the process for approving additional work and costs?
- Can I see references or examples of your work? Any good contractor should be proud to show you their past projects and connect you with satisfied customers.
- What's the payment schedule? A reputable contractor won't ask for 100% upfront. Expect a deposit, progress payments, and a final payment upon completion and your satisfaction.
- Who will be my main point of contact? You want to know who to call if you have questions or concerns during the project.
Asking these questions upfront can save you a lot of headaches down the road. Stucco replacement is an investment in your home, and you want to make sure it's done right. We're here to make that happen for you.