LP SmartSide vs. James Hardie: Which siding is a better fit for your home?

Choosing the right siding is one of the more important exterior decisions you'll make when building a custom home. The exterior of your home not only defines its aesthetic appeal but also plays a crucial role in its protection and longevity. 

LP SmartSide and James Hardie siding are two rather popular and quality options. In this blog, we'll take an unbiased look at both materials, examining their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision for your custom home in the Greater Cleveland Area.

Understanding LP SmartSide

What is LP SmartSide?

LP (Louisiana-Pacific) SmartSide is an innovative type of engineered wood siding, renowned for its strength and durability. Crafted from tightly compressed wood strands coated with a resin binder, LP SmartSide boards are treated with a zinc borate compound to offer exceptional protection against both fungal decay and termite damage.

The siding is available in the ExpertFinish® color collection, comprising 16 versatile prefinished colors designed to enhance any exterior aesthetic. This factory-finish with acrylic latex paint ensures the colors remain vibrant and resilient over time.

A standout feature of ExpertFinish Lap is its proprietary joint, which eliminates the need for seam caulking, joint molds, or pan flashing, making installation more straightforward and aesthetically pleasing. With its robust construction and attractive color options, LP SmartSide provides both practical and visual benefits to homeowners.

The Pros of LP SmartSide

Durability

LP SmartSide is renowned for its durability, ensuring that it stands the test of time. This resilience is supported by comprehensive warranties, including 30-year fade and paint protection assurances, providing homeowners with peace of mind.

Aesthetics

Aesthetically, LP SmartSide is exceptionally pleasing and offers an authentic wood appearance, making it an ideal choice for those desiring a traditional look. Homeowners can choose between wood grain and smooth finishes, catering to varied design preferences.

Color Options

The product boasts a selection of 16 color options, or it can come pre-primed to allow for custom paint application. However, it is important to note that paint warranties do not cover non-factory applied paint finishes.

Eco Friendly

LP SmartSide also plays a crucial role in reducing the carbon footprint by sourcing its wood from sustainable sources and diligently tracking its environmental impact from resource extraction to customer distribution. Through the utilization of renewable materials and deliberate manufacturing processes, LP effectively stores carbon and reduces emissions; notably, LP SmartSide products emit 54% less greenhouse gases compared to fiber cement–based products.

Easy Installation

One major advantage of LP SmartSide is its easy installation, requiring only standard woodworking tools like a circular saw and a nail gun. The self-aligning SmartLock™ feature enhances precision and efficiency, making it ideal for tight timelines. LP SmartSide products are lighter, more durable, and available in longer lengths, reducing material waste and resulting in fewer seams for a clean finish.

Understanding James Hardie Siding

What is James Hardie Siding?

James Hardie, a pioneer in the fiber cement industry, has set the benchmark for home exterior products with its renowned Hardie Board siding. This innovative company is dedicated to developing high-quality, long-lasting materials that enhance home resilience and beauty.

With a commitment to pushing boundaries in design and performance, James Hardie offers solutions that cater to the varied needs of homeowners and construction professionals alike. Their flagship product, Hardie Board, is celebrated for its exceptional performance, providing reliable protection against the elements while maintaining an amazing aesthetic.

The Pros of James Hardie Siding

Durability

James Hardie siding is highly regarded for its exceptional durability, making it a preferred choice among homeowners and builders alike. Made from fiber cement, it is engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, wind, and extreme temperatures. Its resistance to rot, fading, and warping ensures that homes remain protected with minimal maintenance over time. 

Fire Resistance

A notable advantage of James Hardie siding is its noncombustible nature, providing an added layer of safety for homeowners. The fire-resistant properties of fiber cement materials enable James Hardie products to withstand direct flame exposure without igniting. This resilience not only enhances the protection of homes but also contributes to peace of mind for those concerned about fire hazards.

Color Options

James Hardie siding offers an impressive palette with 18 standard color options, allowing homeowners to select hues that perfectly complement their design vision. These colors are carefully curated to ensure both beauty and longevity, as they are engineered to resist fading under sunlight exposure. 

In collaboration with Chip and Joanna Gaines from Magnolia Homes, James Hardie has expanded their selection by adding 16 additional colors. This collaboration infuses a touch of Magnolia's signature style, providing even more choices to personalize home exteriors with timeless elegance.

Appearance

The beauty of James Hardie siding is undeniably striking, with its expertly crafted texture mimicking the natural look of wood while offering the benefits of fiber cement. Its versatile design and color selection enhance any architectural style, making it an unrivaled choice for those who value aesthetics and durability.

Making an Informed Decision

Both LP SmartSide and James Hardie siding present compelling qualities that make them excellent choices for homeowners seeking to enhance their home's exterior. Each material has unique advantages, from LP SmartSide's warmth and ease of handling to James Hardie's unrivaled durability and fire resistance. 

Ultimately, the decision may come down to individual preferences regarding aesthetics, budget, and maintenance commitment. Collaborating with a trusted contractor who can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their expertise is advisable. 

Well-informed homeowners can feel confident in their choice, knowing that both siding options deliver exceptional performance and contribute to a beautiful and lasting exterior. When you’re ready to move forward, please contact EKA Build to discuss the ideal siding choice to make your dream home a reality!