Choosing the right siding for your home is a big decision. It affects how your home looks and how well it stands up to weather and wear. Lately, LP Smartside has been gaining a lot of attention from homeowners looking for something reliable yet stylish. In this article, we’ll take a close look at the pros and cons of Louisiana Pacific Smartside to help you figure out if it’s the right choice for your home. We’ll cover everything from its durability and maintenance to cost and installation, giving you the full scoop to make a well-informed decision.
If you’re in the Sacramento area and need remodeling done, we can help! We serve the entire Sacramento area and we’re happy to do give you an estimate for your home remodeling needs! Click the button below to request a free quote.
What is LP Smartside Siding?
LP Smartside siding is a type of engineered wood siding made by LP Building Solutions. It’s designed to offer the look and feel of traditional wood siding but with some added benefits that traditional wood can’t match. This siding is made from wood strands that are coated with wax for moisture resistance and bonded with resin and other materials to enhance durability. The final product is then treated with a zinc borate solution to resist termites and fungal decay, and finished with a water-resistant, paintable overlay.
LP Smartside Pros and Cons
Pros
- Durability: One of the biggest advantages of LP Smartside siding is its durability. Engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, it’s resistant to impacts from hail and can hold up against strong winds. This makes it a reliable choice for homes in areas with varied and challenging climates.
- Moisture and Decay Resistance: As mentioned above, the material is treated with zinc borate, which helps protect against fungal decay and termites. Additionally, its waxy coating repels water, preventing the moisture-related issues that often plague traditional wood siding, such as warping and rotting.
- Aesthetic Flexibility: LP Smartside offers the natural look of wood without the tedious upkeep. It comes in a variety of styles and colors, giving homeowners the freedom to choose a design that fits their personal taste and complements their home’s architecture.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike traditional wood siding, which can require frequent painting and repairs, LP Smartside siding is low maintenance. Its durable surface is designed to retain its appearance over time, only needing periodic cleaning with mild soap and water.
- Installation Ease: It’s generally easier and quicker to install than traditional wood siding, which can lead to lower labor costs during installation.
Cons
- Cost: While generally more cost-effective than some high-end siding materials, LP Smartside siding can be more expensive than vinyl or basic wood siding. The initial investment might be higher, though potential savings on maintenance could offset this over time.
- Expansion and Contraction: Like many engineered wood products, LP Smartside siding can expand and contract with changes in temperature. Proper installation is crucial to allow for this movement and avoid potential issues like cracking or buckling.
- Limited Lifetime Warranty: The warranty coverage for LP Smartside siding, while comprehensive, is limited and subject to specific installation requirements and regular maintenance. Failure to comply with these can void the warranty.
- Environmental Impact: Although LP Smartside siding uses wood from fast-growing trees and includes some recycled materials, the manufacturing process involves chemicals for treatment against decay and insects, which may raise concerns for environmentally conscious homeowners.
LP Siding Problems
While LP Smartside siding offers many benefits, it isn’t without its issues. One problem some homeowners may encounter is with the finish, which can peel or fade over time, particularly in areas exposed to harsh sunlight. This typically requires repainting or touching up sooner than expected. Another concern is with installation; if not done correctly, issues such as improper gap spacing between panels can lead to moisture intrusion and subsequent damage. This emphasizes the need for hiring experienced professionals for the installation to ensure all manufacturer guidelines are followed to avoid potential problems.
LP Siding vs Hardie
LP Smartside siding is an engineered wood product, which means it combines wood fibers with binders and protective coatings to create a durable material. It’s known for its robustness and its resistance to moisture and pests, thanks to the chemical treatments it undergoes.
On the other hand, Hardie siding is made from fiber cement, a composition of sand, cement, and cellulose fibers. This material is extremely resistant to fire, a significant advantage in areas prone to wildfires. Fiber cement is also highly resistant to rot, insects, and harsh weather conditions, making it an incredibly durable option. Aesthetically, Hardie siding offers a variety of textures and can mimic the look of wood, stucco, or masonry. This versatility allows homeowners to achieve almost any look they desire. However, fiber cement siding is generally heavier than engineered wood and requires more labor-intensive installation, which can increase the overall cost.
Both siding materials are designed to offer long lifespans and excellent protection for a home’s exterior, but the choice between LP Smartside siding and Hardie siding often comes down to specific priorities like cost, the desired aesthetic, and particular climate challenges. LP might be preferred for its wood-like appearance and lower cost, while Hardie could be the choice for those in fire-prone regions or where the most extended possible lifespan is crucial.
The LP Smartside Siding Guide Conclusion
LP Smartside siding is an attractive and durable choice for homeowners wanting the look of wood without the high maintenance. It stands out for its resistance to impacts, moisture, and pests, and offers a variety of aesthetic options. However, it’s not without its drawbacks, such as potential issues with the finish and the necessity for precise installation.
At LNL Construction, we understand the importance of choosing the right siding for your home. Located in the Elk Grove Sacramento area, we’re here to answer any questions you have about siding or any other home repairs and remodeling needs. Feel free to reach out to us for guidance and expert services tailored to your home improvement projects.
