Plastering and stucco crew for builders
Lead a small crew applying plaster and stucco on new builds and remodels for contractors.
- $8k-30k
- Full-time
- Out and about
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in the US, not guarantees.
Official data
8,076 US businesses with employees in this field, +1.5% in a year
NAICS 238390 “Other building finishing contractors”. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns 2023.
What it is
A small plastering company applying interior plaster and exterior stucco on new homes, additions and commercial fit-outs, usually as a subcontractor to builders and general contractors.
Your first three steps
- Check your state's contractor licensing board for the license class you need and start the application
- Get general liability and workers' compensation quotes, and set up an LLC and an EIN
- Contact local builders and general contractors with photos of your past work and offer to bid on their next job
Who pays
General contractors, home builders, remodelers and some homeowners with larger projects.
How it makes money
Bids per project or per square foot, covering labor and materials. Steady work from a few builders can keep your crew booked.
Skills that help
- Plastering and stucco application
- Reading plans and estimating jobs
- Managing and training helpers
- Scheduling and bidding
Watch out for
- State contractor license requirements, which differ a lot by state
- Workers' compensation once you hire, and the rules on employees versus independent contractors
- Late payments from builders, so use written contracts and check lien rights in your state
- Silica dust and lead-safe rules for older buildings, so check OSHA and EPA requirements
- Weather delays and the cost of tools, scaffolding and a truck or van
🔒 Full research report for US
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start a plastering and stucco business?
Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $30,000, depending on your tools, scaffolding and whether you need a truck or van. These are estimates, so get quotes for your own setup.
How much can a plastering and stucco crew earn?
Monthly revenue is typically around $10,000 to $40,000, depending on crew size and how steadily you win work from builders. These are estimates, and weather delays or late payments can affect what you keep.
What rules should I check before starting a stucco crew?
Check your state's contractor license requirements, which differ a lot by state. Also check workers' compensation rules once you hire, employee versus independent contractor rules, lien rights, and OSHA and EPA requirements for silica dust and older buildings.
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