You are looking at putting Stucco on your commercial building here in Lehi. It might be a new build, or maybe you are updating an existing building. Either way, it is a big project, and you want to make sure it is done right. Guardian Stucco Company has been doing this for a while, and we have seen what works and what does not. We can talk about what you need to know to get your Commercial Stucco project off the ground smoothly in Lehi.
Understanding the Timeline for Commercial Stucco in Lehi
One of the first things business owners ask us is, "How long will this take?" This is a fair question. Commercial Stucco is not a one-day job; it is a multi-step process. Each layer needs time to cure properly. Rushing the Commercial Stucco process just leads to problems later on, especially with our Lehi weather.
- Preparation (1-3 days): This is where we get the building ready for the Commercial Stucco. If there is old siding, it is removed. We inspect the substrate, make any necessary repairs, and then install the Lath, Flashing, and Moisture Barriers. This step is important for preventing future moisture issues. Moisture issues are a real concern with our freeze-thaw cycles here in Utah.
- Scratch Coat (1 day application, 24-48 hours curing): This is the first layer of Stucco that goes on the building. It is about 3/8 inch thick. The Scratch Coat provides a textured surface for the next layer to grab onto. It needs a good 24 to 48 hours to cure before we move on with the Commercial Stucco process in Lehi.
- Brown Coat (1 day application, 7-10 days curing): Next comes the Brown Coat. This is another 3/8 inch layer. The Brown Coat smooths things out and builds up the wall's strength. It is important to let this cure for about 7 to 10 days. We do not skip or rush this step for Commercial Stucco in Lehi.
- Finish Coat (1-2 days): This is the final layer of Stucco. We apply the texture and color you have chosen for your Commercial Stucco. This is what everyone will see, so we take our time to get it perfect.
In total, a typical Commercial Stucco project in Lehi can take anywhere from one and a half to three weeks. Sometimes it takes more time depending on the size and complexity of your building. Things like bad weather, such as heavy rain or really cold temperatures, can extend that timeline for your Commercial Stucco project in Lehi.
What to Expect During the Commercial Stucco Process in Lehi
When you hire Guardian Stucco Company for your Commercial Stucco, you are getting a team that understands commercial projects in Lehi. Here is what you can generally expect once we start your Commercial Stucco:
- Site Setup: We will set up scaffolding and make sure the area is secure. We take precautions to protect your property. This includes covering plants and paved areas to keep them clean during the Commercial Stucco work.
- Noise and Activity: There will be some noise. This is construction work. You will see a crew working steadily. They will be mixing materials, applying coats, and transforming your building with new Commercial Stucco.
- Inspections: Local building codes, especially here in Lehi, are specific about Stucco. You can expect inspections at various stages. This includes after the Lath and Moisture Barriers are in place, and then again for the final Commercial Stucco product. For example, Lehi City's nonresidential design standards often limit Stucco to 20 percent of each wall area, excluding windows and doors. Stucco is only allowed as a secondary material in some cases. Guardian Stucco Company is familiar with these requirements and makes sure everything is up to code for your Commercial Stucco in Lehi.
- Curing Times: As we mentioned, there are mandatory curing periods for Commercial Stucco. We will not rush these. It might look like nothing is happening, but those layers are hardening and strengthening. This is important for durability.
- Clean-up: We will keep the site as tidy as possible throughout the Commercial Stucco project. We will also do a thorough clean-up once we are done. Guardian Stucco Company provides Commercial Stucco services to Lehi, UT.
How to Prepare Your Commercial Property for Stucco in Lehi
You can do a few things to help us and make the Commercial Stucco project go smoother in Lehi:
- Clear the Area: Move any vehicles, equipment, or outdoor furniture away from the building. We will need clear access to all walls for the Commercial Stucco application.
- Address Landscaping: If you have valuable plants or landscaping close to the building, consider temporarily moving them. You can also let us know so we can take extra care to protect them during the Commercial Stucco work.
- Inform Tenants/Employees: If your building is occupied, give your tenants or employees a heads-up about the work. This includes potential noise and any access changes. We will try to minimize disruption, but some is inevitable during Commercial Stucco installation.
- Review Access Needs: Think about how people will access your building during the work. We can usually set up scaffolding so that main entrances remain accessible.
- Finalize Colors and Textures: Make sure you have made your final decisions on the Stucco color and texture before we start. Changes mid-project can cause delays and extra costs for your Commercial Stucco in Lehi.
Questions to Ask Before Signing a Commercial Stucco Contract in Lehi
Choosing the right contractor for your Commercial Stucco is an important step. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Here are some questions you should definitely bring up for your Commercial Stucco project in Lehi:
- Are you licensed and insured for commercial work in Utah? This is important. You need to know they are legitimate and that you are protected for your Commercial Stucco project.
- Can you provide references for similar Commercial Stucco projects you have completed? Talk to those clients. Ask about their experience, if the project stayed on budget, and if they were happy with the communication.
- What type of Stucco do you recommend for my building, and why? There is traditional Stucco, synthetic Stucco (EIFS), and different application methods. You want a contractor who can explain the pros and cons for your specific situation. This is especially important considering Lehi's climate.
- How do you handle moisture management and Flashing? This is very important, especially in our area where we get heavy spring snowmelts and winter moisture. Proper Weep Screeds and Flashing are code-required and essential to prevent water damage to your Commercial Stucco.
- What is your process for surface preparation and curing? Listen for details about cleaning, Lath installation, and the multi-day curing process between coats. If they talk about rushing it, that is a red flag for Commercial Stucco work.
- What kind of warranty do you offer on your workmanship and materials? A good contractor stands behind their work.
- What is your safety plan for the job site? Commercial projects often have more stringent safety requirements.
- How do you handle unexpected issues or change orders? Things can come up. You want a clear process for how those are communicated and approved for your Commercial Stucco project in Lehi.
Getting Stucco on your commercial building is a good investment. Commercial Stucco is durable, energy-efficient, and can boost your curb appeal. By understanding the process and asking the right questions, you will make sure your Commercial Stucco project in Lehi is a success. Guardian Stucco Company is here to help you every step of the way with your Commercial Stucco needs in Lehi, UT.