Smart board siding is a popular, innovative alternative to traditional wood, vinyl, and fiber cement siding for U.S. homeowners and builders. Recognized for its durability and attractive appearance, smart board (often called engineered wood siding) brings unique value to modern homes. This guide offers a detailed look into smart board siding cost, breaking down material, installation, and maintenance expenses while comparing it to other top siding choices. Find expert insights, up-to-date pricing, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Smart Board Siding Cost At A Glance
| Cost Factor | Average Price Range (per sq. ft.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Material Only | $2.50 – $6.00 | Varies by brand, style, finish |
| Installed (Total) | $5.00 – $12.00 | Includes labor, fasteners, trim |
| Removal of Old Siding | $1.00 – $2.50 | Per square foot, if needed |
| Annual Maintenance | $150 – $700 | Inspection, cleaning, repainting |
| Total Typical Project (2,000 sq. ft. Home) | $10,000 – $24,000 | All costs included |
What Is Smart Board Siding?
Smart board siding, also known as engineered wood siding or LP SmartSide, is a type of composite siding material made by bonding wood fibers with resins and waxes under high pressure. This construction gives it enhanced resistance to moisture, pests, and rot while retaining the natural look of wood. Leading brands in the U.S. include LP Building Solutions (makers of LP SmartSide), TruWood, and Collins.
Factors Influencing Smart Board Siding Cost
- Material Grade And Brand: Premium brands and thicker panels cost more but often have longer warranties.
- Home Size And Layout: Complex architectural features (multiple stories, corners, trim) increase material waste and labor hours.
- Installation Complexity: Replacing old siding, working around windows or unique home shapes can raise costs.
- Regional Labor Rates: Higher demand for skilled installers in major cities can push up per-hour installation prices.
- Finish Option: Pre-primed or pre-painted boards save after-installation painting but raise upfront cost.
Detailed Cost Breakdown
Material Costs: Boards, Trim, Accessories
Engineered wood smart boards typically cost $2.50 to $6.00 per square foot for materials only. This range covers standard lap siding, vertical panels, and specialty textures such as cedar or rough-sawn finishes. Trim, soffit, fascia, and corner pieces add roughly 10–20% to the cost of boards alone.
- LP SmartSide lap boards (standard 7/16-inch thickness): $2.75–$4.00/sq. ft.
- Panel, shake, or specialty patterns: $3.50–$6.00/sq. ft.
- Trim and accessories: $0.50–$1.25/sq. ft. (additional)
Labor Costs: Professional Installation Rates
The average labor cost to install smart board siding is $2.50 to $6.00 per square foot in most U.S. markets. Labor makes up 45-55% of installed cost, reflecting the importance of skilled workmanship in weatherproofing and visual appeal. Removal of old siding typically ranges from $1.00 to $2.50 per square foot, depending on material and disposal fees.
Total Installed Cost Per Square Foot
Summing material and labor, total installed cost ranges from $5.00 to $12.00 per square foot. For a typical 2,000-square-foot home exterior (not floor area), this translates to $10,000–$24,000 fully installed. Complex homes, high-end brands, or challenging removal projects may exceed this range.
Cost Comparison: Smart Board vs. Other Siding Types
How does smart board siding stack up next to popular alternatives? See the table below for quick reference.
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| Siding Material | Material Cost per sq. ft. | Installed Cost per sq. ft. | Key Pros | Key Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smart Board (Engineered Wood) | $2.50–$6.00 | $5.00–$12.00 | Durable, Natural wood look, Low maintenance |
Periodic painting, May swell if not installed properly |
| Vinyl | $1.00–$2.50 | $3.00–$8.00 | Low cost, Moisture resistant, Easy to clean |
Can fade/crack, Less authentic look |
| Fiber Cement (James Hardie) | $2.50–$5.00 | $7.00–$13.00 | Very durable, Fire resistant, Low maintenance |
Heavy, More complex installation |
| Traditional Wood | $3.00–$8.00 | $7.00–$14.00 | Classic look, Natural insulation |
High maintenance, Susceptible to rot/pests |
| Stucco | $4.00–$6.50 | $8.00–$14.00 | Fire resistant, Good insulation |
Cracks, Challenging repairs |
Average Cost Perspectives: Home Size, Region, Finish, DIY vs. Pro
| Perspective | Key Cost Range | Details/Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Home Size | $5,000 – $30,000+ | Small ranch: lower end; Large two-story or custom: higher end |
| Region | $4.50 – $13.00/sq. ft. | Midwest, South: lower labor; Northeast, West Coast: highest |
| Finish Option | Add $0.50 – $1.00/sq. ft. | Factory pre-finished increases upfront cost but reduces later painting expense |
| DIY vs. Pro Install | DIY Material Only: $2.50 – $6.00/sq. ft.; Pro: $5.00 – $12.00/sq. ft. |
DIY saves labor, but pro install is recommended for warranty and longevity |
Installation Process And Impact On Cost
Steps Involved
- Removal of existing siding (if necessary) – may require extra labor and disposal fees.
- Surface prep and moisture barrier installation – important for proper protection.
- Attachment of engineered wood boards – requires specialized fasteners and manufacturer-recommended spacing.
- Sealing, caulking, and trim work – critical for weatherproofing and finished look.
- Optional painting or staining – factory pre-finished boards can skip on-site painting, reducing cost and time.
Complex installations, corners, peaks, and trim cost more due to higher waste and labor intensity.
Common Add-Ons Impacting Price
- Custom colors or finishing
- Extra architectural details (columns, brackets, ornate trim)
- Structural repairs under old siding
Smart Board Siding Maintenance Costs
Engineered wood siding is marketed as low maintenance compared to traditional wood, but some ongoing care is still needed. Annual cleaning and inspection cost $150–$300 on average, while repainting every 8–12 years can run $1,000–$3,000 for an average home. Prompt repair of chips, dents, or caulking failures prevents larger expenses.
Estimated Ongoing Costs
- Annual minor repairs/cleaning: $150–$300
- Full repainting (every decade): $1,000–$3,000
- Caulk/sealant renewal: $100–$300
Neglecting maintenance can void the manufacturer warranty and lead to swelling or delamination.
Warranties And Long-Term Value
Most top brands offer 30 to 50-year warranties on smart board siding, provided installation and maintenance requirements are met. Prorated coverage means greater value in the first 20-30 years. Professional installers may offer labor warranties (typically 1-5 years).
- LP SmartSide: 50-year prorated limited warranty
- TruWood: Up to 30-year limited warranty
Proper installation and care maximize the return on investment for smart board siding.
Key Buying Tips For Homeowners
- Request detailed quotes from multiple reputable installers; itemize materials, labor, and extras.
- Check manufacturer certifications and licenses for any contractor used.
- Confirm warranty coverage on both materials and installation.
- Balance upfront cost vs. life-cycle value – factory finishing, professional install, and careful design raise initial cost but reduce long-term hassle.
- Compare maintenance requirements to ensure it fits budget and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smart Board Siding Cost
Is Smart Board Siding Cheaper Than Fiber Cement?
Smart board siding usually costs slightly less to buy and install than fiber cement (like James Hardie) siding. Labor is easier and lighter, saving time and money.
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Does Smart Board Siding Increase Home Value?
Engineered wood siding, with its curb appeal and warranty, enhances home value and attracts buyers in many markets—but requires maintenance for maximum resale benefit.
How Much Does It Cost To Remove And Replace Siding?
Removal typically costs $1.00–$2.50 per square foot. The total cost to remove and replace depends on old material, landfill fees, and any unseen repairs needed underneath.
How Long Does Smart Board Siding Last?
With proper care, smart board siding lasts 30–50 years. Key factors: expert installation, routine inspections, prompt caulk/paint touch-ups, and compliance with warranty terms.
Summary Table: Average Smart Board Siding Costs by Scenario
| Scenario | Material Cost Total | Installed Cost Total | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Home (1,200 sq ft) | $3,000–$7,200 | $6,000–$14,400 | One story, basic trim |
| Average Home (2,000 sq ft) | $5,000–$12,000 | $10,000–$24,000 | Most U.S. homes; includes basic removal |
| Large Home (3,500 sq ft) | $8,750–$21,000 | $17,500–$42,000 | Custom architecture, lots of trim/windows |
| DIY Install (2,000 sq ft) | $5,000–$12,000 | Labor savings, but riskier for warranty/quality | Expertise required |
Conclusion
Smart board siding offers an attractive, weather-resistant, and cost-effective solution for homeowners seeking the beauty of wood without its maintenance headaches. By understanding all factors affecting smart board siding cost—from materials to installation and upkeep—buyers can make informed choices for both budget and long-term satisfaction.
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