Read the surface first
Look for hairline and wider cracks, powdery chalk, staining, mildew, bubbles, and sections that sound hollow. Those conditions can point to different repairs. Ask the contractor to explain which ones will be filled, patched, primed, or evaluated further.
Address moisture before coating
Water may enter around openings, joints, roof transitions, or existing cracks. Trapping it behind a new coating can lead to blistering or peeling. Find and correct the source before a repaint; painting alone is not a leak repair.
Ask for a clear preparation sequence
A useful proposal explains cleaning, drying, removal of loose material, repair method, primer where needed, coating, and number of coats. Fresh stucco has curing requirements that depend on the chosen product system; have the installer and paint manufacturer confirm the schedule.
Questions for your painter
- Which cracks are included, and what repair method will you use?
- How will you check for chalking or adhesion problems?
- Which primer and finish are specified for this substrate?
- Are trim, doors, metal details, and soffits separate line items?
A wide or recurring crack may call for assessment beyond a painter’s scope.