We need to talk about Stucco Contractors. You might have a project in mind for your Wichita home. This could be a repair, a new installation, or an overhaul for your Stucco. You know you cannot just hire anyone for your Wichita Stucco project. Getting the right person for the job means asking the right questions as well as knowing what to look for. Our team at Wichita Stucco & Plastering has seen many things over the years. We want to make sure you do not get taken for a ride with your Wichita Stucco work.
What to Ask Before They Even Touch Your House for Stucco Work
You should not be shy when you are interviewing Stucco Contractors in Wichita. This is your home as well as your money. Here is what you need to confirm for your Wichita Stucco project:
- Are you licensed and insured for Stucco work? This is not just a formality. It is very important. General contractors in Wichita and Sedgwick County need to be licensed by the Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department (MABCD). They will need a Class A, B, or C license depending on the building type for their Stucco work. They also need general liability insurance. This is typically at least $300,000. MABCD needs to be named as the certificate holder. If they have employees, they need workers' compensation insurance too. You should ask for proof of all of it. A legitimate Stucco Contractor will not hesitate to show you these documents.
- Can you provide references from recent Wichita Stucco projects? You should not just take their word for it. You should call those references. Ask about the quality of their Stucco work. Ask about adherence to timelines as well as communication. You should also ask if there were any unexpected issues and how they handled them.
- What is your experience with the specific type of Stucco I have or want? Stucco is not a one-size-fits-all material. Traditional Stucco, EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems), and synthetic Stucco all have different application methods as well as different requirements. You want someone who knows the details of your particular Stucco project in Wichita.
- How do you handle permits for Stucco work? Most Stucco work that involves new construction, additions, or significant alterations will need a permit from MABCD. A good Stucco Contractor will know this. They should be able to guide you through the process or handle it entirely. Do not let them tell you a permit is not necessary if the scope of work suggests otherwise.
- What is your warranty for Stucco services? A reputable Stucco Contractor will stand behind their work. You need to understand what is covered. You also need to know for how long it is covered. You need to know what voids the warranty as well.
Decoding the Stucco Quote: What to Look For
You will get a few quotes for your Stucco project. They might look completely different. You should not just compare the bottom line. You need to look at the details for your Wichita Stucco work:
- Detailed Scope of Work for Stucco: The quote should clearly outline everything they are going to do. This means prep work as well as the materials used. Specific types of Stucco, lath, flashing, and sealants should be listed. The number of coats and cleanup should also be included. If the quote is vague, that is a problem.
- Material Specifications for Stucco: Are they using quality materials? There is a big difference between cheap stuff and products that will last through our Kansas weather. This is especially true with the freeze-thaw cycles we get in Wichita.
- Payment Schedule for Stucco: A fair payment schedule usually involves an upfront deposit. This is often for materials. It also includes progress payments as well as a final payment upon satisfactory completion. You should be careful of anyone asking for a huge percentage upfront. This is especially true if it is more than 30-50%.
- Inclusions and Exclusions for Stucco: What is included in the price? What is not included? Are dump fees covered? What about scaffolding? You should get it all in writing so there are no surprises later.
- Permit Costs for Stucco: It needs to be clear who is responsible for pulling as well as paying for the necessary permits.
Red Flags You Cannot Ignore for Stucco Contractors
Some things should make you walk away from a Stucco Contractor:
- No License or Insurance for Stucco Work: We said this already. This is not negotiable. If they cannot provide proof, you should walk away.
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics for Stucco: