All the siding products that we use, also offer a finished siding line of products and accessorizes that are already painted. Vinyl siding is a finished product and it's just a matter of picking a color and having it installed. L.P. (Engineered Wood)and James Hardie (fiber Cement) also have products pre-finished and ready to go. In the sections below you will read the pros and cons of finished siding vs prime and what it will require for maintenance in the future as we see it.
Finished Siding Paint Advantage:
Finished siding products paint is formulated for the substrate that it will be applied to. This type of paint formulation ensures for maximum performance. If you were to purchase paint from Sherwin Williams or a Box Store. That paint is made to go on multiple substrates such as concrete, drywall, and wood. In short, having a paint made specifically for the substrate creates longer lasting adhesion. The paint made specifically for these products are made from natural pigments. Natural pigments vs synthetic pigments have better color retention, which makes for a longer lasting color. An example of natural pigments durability can be seen in caves around the world. Cavemen drew on walls with natural pigments thousands of years ago. These drawings are still around to this day.
Prefinshed Paint Process Advantages:
Paint is applied in an environmentally controlled factory. The advantage is that there are not any environmental factors to be concern with. If you read the side of a paint can most manufacturers would want it to be applied with a relative humidity of 40% to 60%, and between 50 and 80 degrees. Those are just the ideal conditions to apply it. Field applied paint is also susceptible to anything that may blow into the paint during the drying process, such as bugs, dust, cotton wood fuzz, and so on. The quality of products painted in a controlled environment is not as easily obtained in the field. Vinyl siding different because the color is incorporated into the product. The dyes are blended into the product so the color is completely throughout the panel. Even if you were to scratch the panel you would only see the same color.
Prefinished Paint Disadvantage:
Limited color selection is the first reason most people don't opt for the prefinished siding. Depending on the size of the job and the scope of the work.
Prefinished siding could cost up to 30 % more than a traditional paint job. Because the siding is finished in another location it could be scratched or damaged in transit. It does take an experienced or trained crew to install it. It should also be noted that there are sections of cut siding that must have field applied paint. Although both L.P. and James Hardie make a finished panel siding, Acumen Renovations doesn't recommend doing finished panel because of all the exposed fasteners. See our blog Panel Siding Vs Lap Siding for more details.
Choose the Right Siding - Not the Cheapest Option
The difference between finished and unfinished siding isn't just about cost - it affects durability, maintenance, and how your home performs over time. Factory-finished siding often lasts longer due to controlled application, while field-applied finishes depend on workmanship and conditions.
We take a system-based approach to make sure your siding is built to last - not just look good on day one. Schedule a Siding Consultation
FAQ
1. What is the difference between finished and unfinished siding?
Finished siding comes pre-painted or pre-finished at the factory, offering consistent coverage and durability. Unfinished siding is installed first and then painted or stained on-site, which depends heavily on weather and application quality.
2. Does finished siding last longer than unfinished siding?
Yes, finished siding typically lasts longer because it is coated in controlled factory conditions. This results in better adhesion, even coverage, and improved resistance to weather compared to field-applied finishes.
3. Is unfinished siding cheaper than finished siding?
Unfinished siding usually has a lower upfront cost, but when you factor in painting, labor, and future maintenance, it can end up costing more over time.
4. Which siding option requires less maintenance?
Finished siding generally requires less maintenance because the factory-applied finish is more durable and resistant to fading, peeling, and cracking compared to on-site paint applications.
5. Which is better for Kansas City weather - finished or unfinished siding?
Finished siding is often the better choice for Kansas City homes because it handles temperature changes, moisture, and sun exposure more effectively due to its factory-applied protective coating. If you're deciding between siding options, you can learn more about what we recommend and how we approach projects on our"siding services in Kansas City"
