There are a number of ‘can-o-worms’ threads on this site. I think I will be opening up another one…
I built a small outbuilding (garage/shop) this summer that I have been planning to stucco. I am in a northern climate (Toronto), but it does not need the insulating properties of the plastic stucco over foam approach.
My plan was/is to to a traditional stucco over wire lath (over tar paper). Currently the structure is sheathed in 1/2″ CDX.
My neighbor just built a new house and had the stucco over foam done on it. The contractor gave me a quote for my building (670 Sq foot area) of $4500 CDN (gasp!).
Even after all the horror stories about this stucco technique in our climate, I am considering it for two reasons.
One, I can have it done now, whereas I won’t have time myself until spring.
Two, these guys are pros and even though I’m ok with a trowel, I’m not thaaaat good.
So I have three questions.
What do you guys really think about the stucco over foam technique, material etc? Personally I think it is like living in a coffee cup, but..
Secondly, does $4500 CDN (about $2900 US), sound like a reasonable quote? This is a one story structure, easy access to all surfaces, no special moldings, only a couple of openings to work around.
Finally, If I were to approach the contractor about doing all of the prep myself, such as paper, installing and scuffing the foam. How much, in your opinion, could I talk him down? I would like to hire these guys for their real skill, not the grunt work.
Replies
Just shaking the bait up to the surface...
It never hurts to just ask; explain what you are willing to do and see it they take the bait. (trying to stick w/ your fishing analogies) ]:-)
Miami
You might think that the preparation is just "grunt work" but in reality it is the heart of the job. I wouldn't offer any guarantee for finish work done over anyone elses prep. Water has a nasty habit of showing up under EIFS and completely ruining the structure. Proper flashing with an effective drainage plane for water that does get thru is imperative.
You need a contractor with knowledge, experience and insurance in force just in case.
Thanks for the feedback.
I did not mean to diminish the importance of proper prep. I have a good knowledge of how to flash and maintain the drainage plain behind the stucco.
My goal was to pay the big bucks for the experienced hands on the finishing.
I understand a contractor's reflectance to expose themselves to someone else's work. I think I will discuss this with these guys and look for a middle ground.
Given that this is my home and I have long term intentions of owning it, I will be looking for quality in my own work as well as the contractor's.
I had Stucco done on my present home 2yrs ago & I don't think the price has changed much. Traditional stucco with wire mesh on 1" foam with acrylic textured top coat (from 5gal buckets) . $3.50 per sq.ft. U.S. Most of the EIFS problems were caused by wrong flashing and no paper behind the foam. The traditional is a harder finish. Stands up better with kids,golf ball & woodpeckers!
Every commercial building seems to have gone to stucco over popcorn insulation. My take on it is throw a baseball at it. The result will tell you traditional is far superior. Price seems reasonable.
Yeah, I would prefer traditional too. Finding a contractor who isn't pushing the new stuff is proving to be harder than I thought...
I guess I could wait until spring, rather than rush into something I don't really want.