So, you're tired of that old stucco, huh? Maybe it's cracked, looks a bit dated, or you just want a fresh look for your West Covina home. Getting rid of stucco can really update your property, but I've seen plenty of homeowners make some pretty big mistakes. These usually end up costing them a lot of headaches and cash. Let's talk about what to watch out for.
Not Understanding What's Underneath
This is probably the biggest one, honestly. People often assume that once the stucco is off, they'll find a perfectly smooth surface, ready for paint. That's almost never the case. Stucco usually goes over a lath system — that's metal mesh, wire, or even wood lath — which then attaches to a substrate, often plywood or OSB sheathing. Sometimes, especially on older homes in places like the Cameron neighborhood, you might even find original wood siding or shiplap underneath; it could have been covered up decades ago. You really need to know what you're dealing with before you start tearing into anything.
If you're planning to remove stucco, you absolutely have to do some exploratory work first. Cut a small section out in a spot that's not too noticeable. See what's there. Is it plywood? Is it old siding? Is it in good condition? You might find dry rot, water damage, or even old lead paint if it's an older home. Knowing this upfront helps you budget and plan for the next steps, whether that means re-sheathing, making repairs, or getting ready for new siding.
Hiring the Cheapest Bid Without Asking the Right Questions
Look, I get it. Everyone wants to save a buck. But when it comes to stucco removal, the cheapest bid can often end up being the most expensive in the long run. A lot of contractors will give you a low price just for the 'removal' part, but they won't include the crucial steps that come next.
Here's what you need to ask:
- Does your bid include proper disposal of the old stucco? Stucco debris is heavy, you know, and needs to be hauled away correctly.
- What about protecting my landscaping, windows, and doors during the removal process? It's a dusty, messy job.
- Are you handling the prep work for the new siding? This means checking the substrate, making any necessary repairs, and getting the surface ready for whatever comes next — whether that's new siding, paint, or even a different kind of finish.
- What's your plan for flashing around windows and doors after the stucco is off? This is super critical for preventing water intrusion, especially with our occasional heavy rains here in West Covina.
If they can't answer these questions clearly, or if their bid doesn't reflect these steps, you're probably looking at a contractor who's going to cut corners. Or you'll get hit with a bunch of change orders later.
Not Planning for the Next Step Immediately
Once that stucco comes off, your home's exterior is exposed. You can't just leave it like that for weeks on end. Especially if you're down to bare sheathing, it's vulnerable to weather, pests, and general wear and tear. I've seen folks remove stucco, then drag their feet on the next phase, only to have a sudden downpour damage their exposed sheathing. That leads to mold or rot. This is especially true during our winter months when we can get those unexpected, heavy rainstorms.
You need a solid plan and a timeline for what's going on next. Whether it's new siding, a different type of cladding, or even a stucco re-application by us at West Covina Stucco & Plastering, have it lined up. Don't create a bigger problem by leaving your home exposed.
Forgetting About Permits and Inspections
Depending on the scope of work, you might need permits from the city. If you're just removing stucco and immediately replacing it with a similar material, it might be simpler. But if you're changing the exterior cladding significantly, or if there's structural repair needed underneath, you'll likely need a permit. Your contractor should handle this, but it's ultimately your responsibility to make sure it's happening.
Ignoring permits can lead to fines, stop-work orders, and even problems when you try to sell your home down the road. Don't skip this step. A good contractor will know the local codes and handle the permitting process for you.
Underestimating the Mess and Disruption
Stucco removal is not a clean job. It's dusty. It's noisy. There will be debris. If you have kids, pets, or work from home, prepare for some disruption. Talk to your contractor about how they plan to contain the dust and debris, and how they'll manage the work schedule to minimize inconvenience. Setting clear expectations upfront makes a big difference.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you'll be much better prepared for a successful stucco removal project. Do your homework, ask tough questions, and make sure you're working with pros who really know what they're doing.