Alright, so you need some stucco work done on your Long Beach home. Maybe it's a repair, maybe a whole new exterior. 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 for a long time, and I've seen good work and I've seen some real disasters. Here's my no-nonsense guide to finding a solid stucco contractor in our town.
What to Ask Before They Even Touch Your House
You've got a few contractors lined up for estimates. Good. Now, when they show up, don't just let them eyeball it and give you a number. You need to ask some pointed questions. This isn't about being difficult; it's about protecting your investment.
Are you licensed and insured? This is non-negotiable. They need a C-35 (Plastering) license from the CSLB. Ask for their license number and their insurance certificates (general liability and workers' comp). Don't just take their word for it. I'll tell you how to check later.
How long have you been doing stucco specifically? Some general contractors dabble in stucco. You want someone who specializes in it. Stucco's an art and a science; it's not something you learn overnight.
Can you provide references? Ask for at least three recent customers you can call. And actually call them! Ask about their experience, if the job stayed on budget, if it finished on time, and if they'd hire them again.
What's your process for this specific job? Make them walk you through it. If it's a repair, how will they match the existing texture and color? If it's new, what kind of lath, paper, and base coats do they use? A good contractor won't hesitate to explain this clearly.
How do you handle unforeseen issues? Sometimes you pull off old stucco and find dry rot or structural issues. It happens. You need to know how they communicate these problems and what their change order process looks like before work starts.
What kind of warranty do you offer on your work? A reputable stucco contractor should stand behind their work. Ask for it in writing.
What to Look For in a Quote
Once you've got a few quotes in hand, it's tempting to just pick the cheapest one. Resist that urge. The lowest bid often means corners are being cut. Here's what a good quote should include:
Detailed Scope of Work: It shouldn't just say