Choosing between LP Smart Siding and Hardie Board is an important decision for homeowners seeking durable, attractive, and cost-effective siding solutions. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the costs, key differences, and other critical factors associated with these two popular materials—empowering you to make an informed choice. Below is a summary comparison table highlighting major cost drivers and differences:
| Siding Option | Material Cost (Per Sq Ft) | Installation Cost (Per Sq Ft) | Maintenance | Average Lifespan | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LP Smart Siding | $2 – $4 | $4 – $8 | Low-Medium | 20 – 30 Years | Up to 50 Years Limited |
| Hardie Board (Fiber Cement) | $2.50 – $5 | $6 – $10 | Low | 30 – 50 Years | 30 Years Limited |
What Influences Siding Costs?
The total cost of siding installation depends on various factors such as home size, labor rates, region, prep work, and trim pieces. Understanding these elements is essential before choosing between LP Smart Siding and Hardie Board.
LP Smart Siding: Material Composition & Core Features
LP Smart Siding is an engineered wood product made from treated wood strands bonded with waxes and resins. It is designed to mimic traditional wood while offering added resistance to moisture, termites, and fungal decay. Many homeowners are drawn to LP due to its wood-like appearance and ease of installation. The cost of LP Smart Siding is influenced by product thickness, finish, and style.
Hardie Board: Material Composition & Core Features
Hardie Board, also known as James Hardie fiber cement siding, consists of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. This composition results in a heavy, highly durable product that provides superior protection against weather, fire, and pests. While installation is more labor-intensive, Hardie Board’s long-term durability can offset the initial investment.
Detailed Cost Breakdown: LP Smart Siding vs Hardie Board
Material Costs Per Square Foot
- LP Smart Siding: $2–$4 per sq ft (raw materials only)
- Hardie Board: $2.50–$5 per sq ft (raw materials only)
LP Smart Siding tends to be slightly less expensive per square foot compared to Hardie Board, but actual costs depend on style and supplier.
Installation Costs
- LP Smart Siding: $4–$8 per sq ft
- Hardie Board: $6–$10 per sq ft
Hardie Board requires more specialized labor and additional installation time, making professional installation more expensive.
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Average Total Project Cost For A Standard 2,000 Sq Ft Home
| Siding Option | Total Installed Cost Range |
|---|---|
| LP Smart Siding | $12,000 – $24,000 |
| Hardie Board | $17,000 – $30,000 |
These figures are based on typical American home sizes and regional cost averages as of 2025.
Cost By Component: Detailed View
| Cost Component | LP Smart Siding | Hardie Board |
|---|---|---|
| Siding Panels (Materials) | $4,000 – $8,000 | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Labor | $8,000 – $16,000 | $12,000 – $20,000 |
| Prep Work (removal, repairs) | $1,000 – $2,500 | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Paint or Finish (if required) | $1,000 – $2,000 | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Trim, Accessories | $1,000 – $2,000 | $1,200 – $2,200 |
Costs vary based on home complexity, regional labor rates, and architectural details.
Regional Cost Variations
Siding costs are closely linked to location. Labor and material prices can be 10-30% higher in metropolitan areas such as New York, Boston, or San Francisco compared to smaller towns or rural areas. Shipping and supply chain disruptions can further impact prices, especially for fiber cement products like Hardie Board, which are heavier to transport.
Maintenance And Longevity: Value Over Time
LP Smart Siding Maintenance
- Requires painting or sealing every 8–10 years
- May need periodic inspections for damage from hail or rodents
- Low to medium maintenance compared to real wood siding
Hardie Board Maintenance
- Resists moisture, rot, pests, and is noncombustible
- Holds paint extremely well (repainting typically needed every 12–15 years)
- Very low long-term maintenance needs
Hardie Board’s long-term durability often means lower lifetime maintenance costs even though its initial price is higher.
Warranty And Long-Term Value
- LP Smart Siding: Up to 50-year limited warranty on materials, with a 5–15 year period of full coverage (pro-rates over time)
- Hardie Board: 30-year non-prorated warranty, covers both materials and manufacturing defects
Always read the warranty terms carefully, as coverage may vary based on climate, maintenance, and installation quality.
Appearance, Styles, And Curb Appeal
LP Smart Siding
- Authentic wood grain look
- Offered in lap, panel, board and batten, shake, and trim styles
- Available in prefinished colors or primed for painting
- More flexibility for creative exterior designs
Hardie Board
- Classic wood grain and smooth textures
- Available in several lap, shingle, vertical, and panel profiles
- Pre-finished with ColorPlus® Technology (factory-applied multi-coat system)
Both options offer extensive style variety, but Hardie Board’s paint retention is a standout advantage for long-lasting color.
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Durability And Weather Resistance
Hardie Board is particularly known for withstanding severe weather, hail, wind, and even fire (as it is non-combustible, an advantage in wildfire-prone regions). LP Smart Siding is engineered to resist termites and fungal decay and has good impact resistance, but can be less fire-resistant than fiber cement.
Overall, Hardie Board offers exceptional resistance to extreme weather and fire, while LP Smart Siding is prized for its robust engineering against most environmental factors.
Installation Requirements: Speed, Complexity, And Considerations
LP Smart Siding Installation
- Lighter and easier to cut and install than fiber cement
- Requires standard woodworking tools
- Faster installation reduces labor costs, especially for experienced crews
Hardie Board Installation
- Heavier, requires specialized cutting tools (to avoid silica dust)
- Needs more manpower and time to install securely
- Essential to follow manufacturer’s guidelines for flashing, nailing, and joint sealing
- Improper installation voids warranty—always use qualified contractors
These installation differences translate into significant labor cost gaps between the two siding products.
Environmental Impact And Sustainability
LP Smart Siding: Uses renewable wood resources from fast-growth plantations and low-VOC resins, making it a responsible engineered wood choice. Waste is minimized with smart manufacturing processes.
Hardie Board: Made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers—fibers are sometimes derived from post-industrial sources. While fiber cement is long-lasting, it requires more energy to produce and transport due to its density and weight.
LP Smart Siding is generally considered to have a lighter environmental footprint due to renewable content and less intensive manufacturing.
Resale Value And ROI (Return On Investment)
Both siding options can raise curb appeal and home resale value. Fiber cement siding, such as Hardie Board, frequently tops Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, with an ROI between 68–78% for major siding replacement projects. LP Smart Siding typically offers a similar or slightly lower ROI, thanks to its competitive durability and attractive finish. If resale timing is a major concern, Hardie Board may have a slight advantage based on current real estate market trends.
Insurance Impacts And Regional Codes
Due to its non-combustible rating, Hardie Board may reduce home insurance premiums in wildfire-prone areas or localities with strict fire codes. Some jurisdictions may even require fiber cement in multi-family housing for safety. LP Smart Siding generally meets standard residential codes but may not offer the same premium discounts or code compliance in specialized scenarios.
Homeowner Preferences: Popular Use Cases And Adoption Trends
Homeowners seeking a traditional wood look, quick installation, and lower upfront cost frequently opt for LP Smart Siding. Those prioritizing longevity, fire resistance, and low lifetime maintenance costs lean toward Hardie Board. The latest trends show increased adoption of fiber cement in high-value markets and regions prone to severe weather or wildfires.
Comparative Table: LP Smart Siding Vs Hardie Board—Key Factors At A Glance
| Factor | LP Smart Siding | Hardie Board |
|---|---|---|
| Material Cost | $2 – $4 / sq ft | $2.50 – $5 / sq ft |
| Installed Cost | $6 – $12 / sq ft | $8.50 – $15 / sq ft |
| Installation Ease | Easy, fast | Labor-intensive |
| Maintenance | Low–Medium | Very Low |
| Average Lifespan | 20–30 Years | 30–50 Years |
| Fire Resistance | Moderate | High (Noncombustible) |
| Warranty | Up to 50 years (pro-rated) | 30 years non-prorated |
| Style Options | Extensive | Extensive |
| ROI | High | Very High |
| Environmental Impact | Lower | Moderate |
Cost Considerations From Various Perspectives
Homeowner Perspective
- Budget-Conscious: LP Smart Siding offers savings on materials and installation, making it suitable for cost-sensitive projects.
- Long-Term Investment: Hardie Board is more expensive up front, but its minimal maintenance and long lifespan offer excellent long-term value.
- Insurance & Code Compliance: Homeowners in high-risk fire zones often benefit more from Hardie Board.
Contractor Perspective
- Installation Speed: LP siding is faster and easier for crews to handle, resulting in shorter project timelines.
- Skill Requirements: Hardie Board demands skill and safety measures (silica dust precautions) which can limit available labor and extend schedules.
Environmental Perspective
- Material Source: Engineered wood uses renewable fibers; fiber cement is heavier and energy-intensive to produce.
- Environmental Footprint: LP Smart Siding has the advantage in eco-friendly sourcing and manufacturing.
Long-Term Cost Perspective
| Cost Factor | LP Smart Siding | Hardie Board |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Investment | Lower | Higher |
| Maintenance Over 20 Years | Medium (Painting, Repairs) | Low (Occasional Cleaning, Repainting after 12–15 yrs) |
| Expected Lifespan | Shorter | Longer |
| Insurance Impact | Minimal | Potential Discount |
| Resale Calculation | High ROI | Very High ROI |
Choosing The Right Siding For Your Home
The choice between LP Smart Siding and Hardie Board ultimately comes down to budget, aesthetics, regional climate risks, and future resale goals. Both materials are strong contenders, offering decades of performance. Consulting with experienced local contractors and considering long-term maintenance costs will ensure the best outcome for your property and investment.
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