Following are some of the more common questions we've encountered:
- Stucco
What is the advantage of using stucco over paint? - Stucco is more durable. Stucco typically lasts 25 to 30 years. Regular paint starts to fail after 5 to 10 years. Like paint, stucco offers many colors to choose from; unlike paint, stucco gives you the option of having different textures applied.
- What type of prep work is necessary before applying stucco, and how long does the whole process take, from start to finish?
- Some homes need to be sandblasted (e.g., houses with failing Texcote or multiple layers of delaminating paint). Other homes may need only a powerwash and spot-patching to prepare it. Typically, a job is completed in 3 or 4 days. We are always happy to provide free estimates.
- What is better about Renew Exteriors compared to other companies?
- We provide superior skill level and experience. We use the best products (for example, bonders, stucco, masking tapes), which are applied by our skilled journeymen. We provide a wider variety of textures and colors than other companies, and we pride ourselves on leaving your job clean at the end of each day.
- Do you have insurance and do you provide a warranty?
- We are licensed (Contractor's License #708276). We carry worker's compensation and liability insurance. Insurance certificates are available on request on contracted work. We do warranty all of our work.
- How long have you been in the trade?
- David and Nick Allen have been in the trade since the late 1970s. At one time, all six brothers of the Allen family worked together; over the years, some of the brothers have moved away and some have concentrated in other parts of the construction industry. Renew Exteriors has been in business since 1995.
- Do you do lath and plaster as well as apply stucco?
- Yes, Renew Exteriors has done numerous additions, remodels, new homes, changing from wood siding to lath and plaster, and patching around newly installed windows.
- Windows
What type of windows do you typically install? - We install retrofit and new construction vinyl windows, as well as premium fiberglass framed windows.
- What is the advantage of retrofit windows?
- Retrofit windows install much more quickly with little or no stucco damage. The dual-pane windows provide both thermal and sound insulation. Grid work or muttons can be added as a window-design feature.
- When are new construction windows used?
- New construction windows are typically installed on new construction buildings or new additions. However, some clients prefer replacing their existing windows with new construction windows, because of the look (narrower perimeter flange). This process requires more plaster and lath repair that is best done by a company like ours, in conjunction with the window installation, to ensure water impermeability.
- Are there different window colors available?
- Yes, vinyl windows are available in several colors.
- Architectural Foam
What is architectural foam? - Architectural foam is typically installed as accents at windows, doors, and eaves. For example, you may want a 2-inch by 4-inch pop-out around your windows. The most efficient way to do this is with precoated foam. The shapes available are virtually limitless.
- What does architectural foam look like when it is finished?
- After stucco is applied over it, the foam appears as an integral part of the building. It is a much faster process than building accents out of wood, lath, and plaster, with comparable-looking results and at far less cost.
- Do you install foam shapes with other finishes?
- Yes, we have installed foam that is finished to look like stone. Architectural foam continues to offer more and more design options.
- SureCoat
What is SureCoat? - SureCoat is a flexible, epoxy-balanced coating. It is new to the San Diego area, and Renew Exteriors is the only dealer for and installer of this product. Competitor products are Texcote or Liquid Stucco. However, we feel that SureCoat is far superior, and, as a result, we are able to offer a comprehensive lifetime warranty. SureCoat can be used over stucco, masonry, vinyl, metal, and wood. It not only provides a beautiful, durable, crack-bridging finish, but also provides an insulation factor similar to Low-E, or Low-Emissivity windows. As a result, using SureCoat lowers your energy costs.
- What colors are available for SureCoat?
- SureCoat is available in 36 standard colors.
- Is SureCoat thicker than paint?
- Yes, the finished product is more than five times thicker than paint.
- What other advantages are there to using SureCoat?
- You won't need to paint your house again. SureCoat is environmentally friendly (VOC-free**); it inhibits mold growth; in areas
close to the beach, it inhibits salt decay.
** VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are a major contributor to low-level atmospheric pollution and the use of these compounds leads to global warming. - Have additional questions?
- If you have questions that we haven't answered here, we would be happy to answer them for you. Simply call us at 619-280-0533 or send us an e-mail at info@renewexteriorsinc.com. We look forward to hearing from you!