Ai Restoration

We had partial stucco remediation work done 15 years ago. It was a nightmare a the time. Our whole development had moisture issues. At that time, remediation protocol did not require existing windows to be removed from walls to be flashed properly. Last year, some windows showed signs of rot. Figured we better have a moisture inspection done. It revealed moisture issues on other elevations where windows & stucco appeared fine. Here we go again. I reached out to 2-3 stucco contractors and several window contractors. The main question that arose while getting estimates was, Who does what work? Specifically flashing and caulking replacement windows? Window guys say that's part of the stucco system. Stucco guys say flashing is part of the window installation. If something isn't done properly, what is the impact of who installed what on the respective warranties? One window manufacturer referred me to Ai Restoration. Coincidentally, I saw they were doing work in a neighboring development, and subsequently learned they did work in my development previously. Ai Restoration provides a complete remediation SYSTEM to repair damaged walls, remove existing windows, flash them properly, install Hydro-Gap water resistant barrier, install drip edging at doors, deck, along roof lines and at foundation, reinstall existing or replacement windows, finish the exterior in either stucco or James Hardie Plank siding, install kick-out flashing where needed, then caulk & seal every opening. The next question was, how many windows do we replace? Just the ones that are rotting? Those and adjacent ones? All the windows in stucco walls? To best utilize their system, we had to remediate all stucco exteriors, so we replaced all windows on those walls. Next question: put on new stucco or replace with James Hardie cement plank siding? We never liked the "look" of "siding", but James Hardie plank siding is attractive. It has a wood texture reminiscent of traditional, colonial wood siding, is available in several factory colors, or can be primed at the factory for painting after installation, and can be complimented with Azec composite trim. James Hardie factory finishes are warranted for 20 years. It added about 15% to the cost of the project. However, stucco has gotten a terrible reputation over the last 20 years. A realtor friend recommended spending the extra money and installing the James Hardie siding to make selling the home easier when the time comes. Ai's estimate to replace stucco was much more than another stucco contractor's. It did not include the cost of the replacement windows, but did include labor to remove the old ones, repair & flash the openings, install drip caps/ pans and install replacement windows or replace existing units. It also included painting of the new siding and trim. We had two minor issues. Removing the electric panel to the A/C units at the beginning of work caused a short and I had to call the heating contractor. Ai credited us the cost of that repair. Also, some outdoor landscape lights were broken during construction. The provided a credit for that cost as well. We spent way more than we would have liked, but we were very pleased with the results. All of Ai's workers and subcontractors were friendly, conscientious, attentive to detail. They worked hard each day & week to ensure the project progressed as quickly as possible.