James Hardie Siding vs LP Smartside Siding
Vinyl siding is out; durable, long-lasting siding is in.
If you’ve been looking into a new siding replacement, you may have noticed there are new siding options on the market. Vinyl siding is no longer the only affordable siding option for residential homeowners looking to increase their curb appeal and have long-lasting protection.
James Hardie siding (fiber cement siding) and LP Smartside siding (engineered wood) are both gaining popularity. With a higher upfront investment than vinyl siding, fiber cement siding and engineered wood siding are lasting longer and offering unbeatable eco-friendly benefits, making them a top choice for new siding replacements in Maryland.
Get enhanced curb appeal with superior protection. Politz Enterprises can help you choose between James Hardie Board fiber cement or LP Smartside engineered wood siding for your Maryland home. We can discuss the weather benefits, insulation properties, visual designs, and costs for the best pick for your home.
James Hardie Siding
James Hardie Siding is a type of fiber cement siding. Fiber cement siding is a blend of cement, sand, and other fiber materials that adheres together for unbeatable long-lasting protection.
It stands up to rotting, warping, and cracking, so no more weathered looks that you find with traditional vinyl siding. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors and plank styles, giving you a unique and distinct look or can blend in seamlessly with your neighborhood.
Cost: James Hardie Board siding is one of the more expensive upfront investment siding options on the market. However, this has a longer-lasting durability, which makes it more affordable over time.
Lifespan: Fiber cement siding from James Hardie can last 40-50 years with minimal maintenance and upkeep (although annual inspections are encouraged to catch damage early).
Warranty: Talk to your local siding installation company about their warranty coverage, along with warranty directly from the manufacturer, which can cover up to 30 years.
Durability: James Hardie Board siding is one of the most durable siding options on the market. It is non-combustible, waterproof, termite-proof, and resistant to warping. This also makes it more eco-friendly for insulation and energy efficiency.
LP Smartside Siding
LP Smartside siding is a type of engineered wood siding. It is designed to mimic wood siding but is much more resistant and long-lasting than natural wood. It combines wood elements with wood fibers using bonded resins. This is how LP Smartside siding looks natural but is resistant and long-lasting.
Although limited on color options due to mimicking natural wood, homeowners can select between lap siding installation, panel siding, or a shake appearance for a truly standout design.
Cost: Less expensive than Hardie Board, LP Smartside offers cheaper material and easier installation. Still more of an upfront cost than vinyl siding, LP Smartside is beneficial for those who want that natural wood design.
Lifespan: The expected average lifespan is 20-30 years, though this can depend on maintenance, repairs, and overall siding upkeep.
Warranty: Talk to your siding installation company about any offered warranties and ask about LP Smartside warranty options that may cover up to 50 years.
Durability: LP Smartside engineered wood siding is impact resistant and much more durable than traditional wood. Because it is treated and bonded with resins, it is resistant to termites and offers increased durability.
Biggest Considerations of James Hardie & LP Smart Siding
When it comes to choosing between James Hardie fiber cement siding vs LP Smartside engineered wood siding, both are optimal choices for homeowners in Maryland. The biggest deciding factors come down to cost, aesthetics, and maintenance.
Cost: LP Smartside is more affordable than James Hardie upfront, so if you’re working on a limited budget but want to step away from vinyl siding, this could be the right choice.
Maintenance: James Hardie siding is the best if you want minimal maintenance over the lifespan of your home that still maintains its color, protection, and durability.
Lifespan: James Hardie cement siding has a longer expected lifespan, due to the manufactured elements vs natural wood, and is a better investment for long-term installation.
Durability: Tied. It all comes down to what you are looking for. LP Smartside is more impact resistant and is engineered against termites. Hardie Board, however, is great against warping, weather resistance, and pests. Both provide some of the best home protection on the market.
Call Politz Enterprises for More Siding Information in the DMV
No matter what your next siding installation is made of, Politz Enterprises can help. We offer traditional vinyl siding, Hardie Board fiber cement siding, and LP Smartside engineered wood siding. We can consult on the best siding installation choice for your home based on location, budget, and desired aesthetics.
Take the jump today and invest in the siding that makes your homeowner dreams come true. With natural elements, a variety of colors, and long-lasting protection, it’s time to start with a new siding installation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between James Hardie siding and LP Smartside siding?
James Hardie siding is made from fiber cement, offering long-lasting protection against weather, fire, and pests. LP Smartside is engineered wood siding, designed to mimic natural wood while providing enhanced durability and impact resistance.
Which siding option lasts longer, James Hardie or LP Smartside?
James Hardie siding typically lasts 40–50 years with minimal maintenance, while LP Smartside has an average lifespan of 20–30 years depending on upkeep.
Is LP Smartside more affordable than James Hardie siding?
Yes, LP Smartside has a lower upfront cost than James Hardie siding, making it a more budget-friendly option for homeowners.
Which siding option requires less maintenance?
James Hardie siding requires less maintenance over time and maintains its color and durability with minimal upkeep.
Can both James Hardie and LP Smartside withstand pests and weather?
Yes, both are durable. James Hardie is resistant to warping, weather, and termites. LP Smartside is impact-resistant and also treated to resist termites.