Thinking about redashing your stucco? It’s a big project, no doubt. Done right, it makes your home look fantastic and protects it for years. Done wrong? Well, that’s where the regrets really kick in. As someone who’s been doing this work with Glendale Stucco & Plastering for a long time — twenty-five years, give or take — I’ve seen plenty of homeowners stumble into some pretty common mistakes. Let’s talk about how you can steer clear of them.
Mistake #1: Not Really Knowing What 'Redashing' Means
A lot of folks throw around the term 'redashing' pretty loosely. Sometimes they mean a full tear-off and re-application of the whole stucco system. Other times, they just want a fresh coat of paint or a thin skim coat over what’s already there. These are totally different jobs, right? Different costs, different timelines, and definitely different results. If you’re talking to a contractor and they don't clarify what you're actually looking for, that’s a red flag. You need to be crystal clear on the scope. Are we talking about patching cracks and then putting on a new finish coat? Or are we stripping it all back to the sheathing because the old stuff is failing? Don't just assume everyone's on the same page. Make sure you and your contractor define 'redashing' precisely for your specific project.
Mistake #2: Only Looking at the Cheapest Price
I get it, everyone wants a good deal. But when it comes to stucco, the cheapest bid often ends up being the most expensive in the long run. I've seen it happen again and again in neighborhoods like Adams Hill, where older homes really need careful work. A low bid usually means someone's cutting corners. Maybe they're using cheaper materials that won't last in our hot Glendale sun, or they're skipping crucial steps like proper surface prep or applying enough coats. Stucco isn't just about looking good; it’s about protecting your home from water. If a contractor rushes the job or uses inferior products, you're looking at cracks, water damage, and another redash much sooner than you should be. Ask why one bid is so much lower than the others. A good contractor will be able to explain their pricing and the quality they deliver.
Mistake #3: Ignoring the Wall Itself and Any Hidden Problems
This is a big one, perhaps the biggest. You can put the prettiest new stucco finish on a wall, but if what's underneath isn't solid, you're just throwing money away. Before any redashing, especially if you’re going for a full re-application, the contractor absolutely needs to check the substrate. Are there wood rot issues? Is the sheathing damaged? Are there flashing problems around windows and doors? We get some pretty heavy rains here in winter, and if water’s already getting behind your stucco, a new layer won't fix it; it’ll just trap the moisture. A good contractor will find and fix these underlying problems first. If they just want to slap new stucco over everything without a thorough inspection, walk away. Seriously, you'll thank me later.
Mistake #4: Skipping Reference Checks and Insurance Verification
This might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how many homeowners skip this step. You’re letting people work on your biggest asset, after all. You need to know they’re legitimate and capable. Ask for references and actually call them. See if the contractor is licensed and insured. In California, that’s a C-35 license for plastering and stucco. Insurance is critical. If someone gets hurt on your property or causes damage, you don't want to be on the hook, do you? Any reputable company, like Glendale Stucco & Plastering, will have no problem providing this information. If they hem and haw, that’s a massive red flag. It’s about protecting yourself and your investment.
Mistake #5: Not Getting a Detailed Contract
A handshake and a verbal agreement might work for some things, but not for a stucco redash. You need everything in writing. The contract should clearly outline: the exact scope of work (what 'redashing' means for your project), the materials to be used (brands, types, colors), the timeline, payment schedule, and what happens if there are unforeseen issues. What kind of warranty do they offer? What about cleanup? A clear contract protects both you and the contractor and helps prevent misunderstandings down the road. Don't sign anything you don't fully understand. Ask questions until you’re comfortable.
Doing your homework upfront can save you a lot of grief and money. A quality stucco redash should last for decades, not just a few years. Take your time, ask the right questions, and don't settle for anything less than a professional job.