Time and time again on our blog we emphasize that damage to your stucco might mean a more fundamental problem than what is visible. For example, if you notice stucco cracking, it could just be routine wear and tear, but it could be a sign of faulty installation. Why do we always talk about this? Because one of the most frequently asked questions we get is whether we can just remove and replace stucco instead of remediating.
Rather than getting at the root cause of damage, removing stucco will only put a bandaid on the problem. Stucco removal contractors will apply a temporary fix whereas remediation specialists will fix the problem and offer a guarantee on their services. Below are three important questions to ask your stucco contractors to ensure they are not just going to replace your stucco and leave you with underlying damage that has the potential to get much worse.
What Is the Extent of the Damage?
Understanding the extent of the damage is important for knowing just how catastrophic the issue is. Seemingly small problems like cracks and stains can often be signs of a much larger issue. A stucco removal contractor will likely blame regular wear and tear whereas a remediation specialist will understand that these signs mean there is underlying damage. Be sure to ask your contractor about any visible common stucco problems, such as:
- Cracking
- Stucco below grade
- Deterioration
- Water marks
- Efflorescence
- Stucco gaps at windows and doors
- Thin stucco
All of these problems are due to poor installation. If the extent of the damage reveals these problems, you’ll need more than just patchwork.
How Will You Fix the Problem?
This leads us to another important question. Ask them about what they can do to fix the root cause of the problem. It’s important to specifically mention the cause of the problem, rather than just the problem itself. If you hired them to repair a crack, then they’ll repair the crack. But if you want the cause of the problem fixed, it’s important to hire a capable and knowledgeable expert.
How Can This Be Prevented in the Future?
Finally, ask your contractor about preventing the problem in the future. Stucco removal contractors may tell you that once the stucco is removed and replaced, your problems will disappear. But as we’ve seen in the past, without proper remediation, moisture issues can come back in full force. Asking this question will show you whether your contractor has a plan in place to keep the damage from happening again in the future. For example, if a weep screed is missing from your home, one can be installed after remediation. If your stucco lays too thin, a thicker coat can be applied after remediation. If the answer to this question is less than satisfactory, it’s wise to get a second opinion from a true exterior building envelope expert, like the ones at Ai Restoration.
Ai Restoration: Stucco Remediation Specialists
At Ai Restoration, we are not only confident in our expertise but we enjoy educating homeowners on exterior building issues. We’ve developed relationships with some of the best manufacturers in the country offering truly superior products. We’ve also built a reputation for excellent customer satisfaction. So if you’re looking for more than just a stucco removal contractor, reach out to us today!
