LP SmartSide: The Smart Choice for Engineered Wood Siding
When it comes to cladding solutions that deliver performance, durability, and beauty, LP SmartSide siding has earned a prominent place in both residential and commercial construction. Known for its engineered wood technology and versatility in design, LP SmartSide products combine the warmth and authenticity of traditional wood with cutting-edge materials science. Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or architect, LP SmartSide offers an intelligent alternative to traditional siding materials.
This article explores LP SmartSide siding in depth, from its composition and features to its benefits, installation process, cost, and how it stacks up against other options on the market.
What is LP SmartSide?
LP SmartSide is a line of engineered wood siding products developed by Louisiana-Pacific Corporation. It includes a wide variety of siding solutions such as lap siding, panel siding, shakes, trim, and soffit. What sets LP SmartSide apart is its proprietary SmartGuard® process, a four-component system that protects the wood against moisture, termites, and fungal decay.
This technology ensures that the siding is not only stronger than traditional wood but also holds up better in extreme climates. It’s been rigorously tested in hot, humid, cold, and windy environments, making it one of the most reliable siding materials available today.
The SmartGuard® Advantage
The SmartGuard® process involves four protective elements:
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Resins that bind the wood strands together, enhancing strength and resistance to impact.
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Waxes that coat every fiber to ensure superior moisture resistance.
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Zinc Borate that provides long-lasting protection against rot and insect infestation.
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Overlay that offers a durable, weather-resistant finish ready to be painted or left prefinished.
Together, these components create a siding product that’s more resilient than traditional wood, vinyl, or fiber cement in many aspects.
Design and Style Flexibility
LP SmartSide isn’t just functional—it’s also aesthetically appealing. The products mimic the look of real wood with deep cedar-grain texture, giving homes a natural yet refined appearance. Because of the engineered nature of the wood, it can be cut to precision and shaped into a variety of styles and dimensions.
Here are some popular options:
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Lap Siding: Ideal for horizontal applications; provides a clean, traditional look.
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Panel Siding: Perfect for board and batten styles or vertical applications.
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Shakes: Mimic the rustic look of cedar shakes but with better performance.
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Trim and Soffit: Finishing pieces that match perfectly with any design layout.
LP also offers prefinished options through LP® SmartSide® ExpertFinish®, eliminating the need for on-site painting and reducing project time.
Durability and Performance
Engineered for toughness, LP SmartSide has been tested in some of the most punishing climates across North America. It has a proven ability to withstand:
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Freeze-thaw cycles
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Hurricane-force winds (up to 200 mph wind gusts)
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Intense UV exposure
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Prolonged moisture contact
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Impact from hail and debris
Unlike fiber cement, which can crack or chip, LP SmartSide has flexibility and resilience. In side-by-side comparisons, LP SmartSide is often chosen for its lighter weight and ease of handling on-site, reducing labor fatigue and breakage during installation.
Installation Advantages
One of LP SmartSide’s greatest selling points is its easy installation. It cuts like wood using standard tools, doesn’t require special blades like fiber cement, and is lighter, making it easier to carry and attach.
Key installation benefits include:
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Faster cutting and nailing
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Less material waste
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Straightforward integration with flashing and trim
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Can be installed in cold weather conditions
All of these factors make LP SmartSide a favorite among contractors and DIY enthusiasts alike.
Environmental Considerations
For environmentally-conscious homeowners, LP SmartSide offers a more sustainable alternative to some other cladding products. The wood used is sourced from fast-growing trees, typically aspen and other wood species found in sustainable forests.
Additionally, the SmartGuard process helps extend the life of the product, reducing the need for replacement and waste. The manufacturing process uses minimal energy, and LP has made strides in reducing the carbon footprint of its operations.
Cost Overview
LP SmartSide is considered a mid-range siding option in terms of cost. Here’s a general price range:
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Material cost: $2.00 – $3.50 per square foot
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Installed cost: $5.00 – $10.00 per square foot (depending on region, complexity, and contractor rates)
While it’s more expensive than vinyl, it is usually more affordable than fiber cement and traditional cedar wood. However, due to its durability, ease of maintenance, and long lifespan, LP SmartSide often results in a lower total cost of ownership over time.
Maintenance and Longevity
LP SmartSide is low maintenance compared to traditional wood siding. It is pre-primed for paint or available with a prefinished color through the ExpertFinish® series.
To keep it in top shape:
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Wash annually with a garden hose or soft brush
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Repaint every 10–15 years if using a custom paint
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Inspect caulked seams and joints every couple of years
With proper maintenance, LP SmartSide products can last up to 50 years, backed by one of the industry’s leading warranties: a 5/50 limited warranty (5-year labor and 50-year prorated product coverage).
Comparing LP SmartSide to Other Siding Options
| Feature | LP SmartSide | Vinyl Siding | Fiber Cement | Natural Wood |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durability | Excellent | Moderate | Very Good | Low |
| Cost | Mid-range | Low | High | High |
| Maintenance | Low | Low | Medium | High |
| Appearance | Natural wood look | Plastic-like | Natural stone/wood | Authentic wood |
| Installation | Easy | Very Easy | Requires tools | Medium |
| Environmental Impact | Sustainable wood | Petrochemical-based | Energy-intensive | Deforestation risk |
Best Use Cases
LP SmartSide is ideal for:
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New home builds
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Residential renovations
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Detached garages, sheds, and barns
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Commercial buildings
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Farmhouses, craftsman, and modern exteriors
It adapts to a variety of climates and design styles, offering peace of mind whether you live in a snowy region or humid coastal zone.
Conclusion: Why LP SmartSide Makes Sense
In today’s competitive construction landscape, choosing siding that looks great and performs even better is crucial. LP SmartSide stands out by blending the timeless appeal of wood with the strength and resilience of modern engineering. From its SmartGuard technology to its vast design options, it delivers on both form and function.
Whether you’re looking to boost your home’s curb appeal, protect against the elements, or simply reduce maintenance hassles, LP SmartSide is a smart investment. It’s not just siding—it’s a complete exterior solution that aligns with today’s expectations for sustainability, durability, and aesthetics.