LP SmartSide Siding: Pros, Cons, & Cost Guide

If you’re considering LP SmartSide siding for your next exterior renovation, you’re not alone. This engineered wood product has become a popular alternative to fiber cement and vinyl thanks to its durability, wood-like appearance, and easy installation. Homeowners in Lafayette and surrounding areas are increasingly turning to LP SmartSide for its balance of beauty and strength.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• What LP SmartSide siding is made of
• Pros and cons of the product
• Cost comparisons for 2026
• How it stacks up to other siding materials
• Styles and finish options
• Local contractor insights and final recommendations

Let’s explore whether LP SmartSide is the right fit for your home.

What Is LP SmartSide Siding?

LP SmartSide is a type of engineered wood siding made from treated wood strands combined with waxes and resins for strength and moisture resistance. The result is a durable panel that mimics the look of real wood but is designed to resist fungal decay, termites, and harsh weather.

Unlike traditional wood siding, SmartSide panels are treated with LP’s proprietary SmartGuard process, which adds layers of protection against the elements.

7 Key Advantages of LP SmartSide Siding

Here are the top reasons homeowners in Lafayette continue to choose LP SmartSide over other options:

1. Realistic wood appearance: Mimics authentic wood grain while resisting decay
2. Superior impact resistance: Holds up to hail and debris better than fiber cement or vinyl
3. Easier installation: Lighter weight makes it quicker to install with standard tools
4. Longer warranties: Comes with a 50-year limited warranty and a 5-year labor warranty
5. Excellent paint adhesion: Can be painted any color and holds paint longer
6. Environmentally conscious: Uses wood from sustainable forests and low-VOC adhesives
7. Style flexibility: Available in shakes, panels, lap siding, and trim for full customization

Pros of LP SmartSide Siding

Many Lafayette homeowners choose LP SmartSide because it offers the aesthetic of wood siding with far less maintenance and better resistance to common issues like rot or insect damage.

Key Advantages

• Curb appeal: Offers an authentic wood grain texture and a variety of profiles, including lap, panel, and shake
• Durability: Resistant to impact, moisture, and pests thanks to the SmartGuard treatment
• Workability: Lighter and easier to cut and install than fiber cement siding
• Warranty: Backed by a 50-year limited warranty from LP
• Paint adhesion: Holds paint well, meaning fewer repaints over time
• Sustainable materials: Made from renewable wood sources and low-emission resins

Cons of LP SmartSide Siding

Despite its many advantages, LP SmartSide does have a few drawbacks to consider.

Things to Watch For

• Needs painting: Unlike vinyl, SmartSide must be painted or prefinished
• More maintenance than vinyl: Still requires periodic upkeep to maintain warranty coverage
• Higher cost than vinyl: Generally more expensive than basic vinyl siding options
• Requires professional installation: Improper installation can void warranty or lead to moisture issues

While not a dealbreaker, these factors are worth weighing against your budget and maintenance expectations.

How Much Does LP SmartSide Cost in 2026?

The cost of LP SmartSide siding in 2026 depends on several variables, including your home size, location, labor rates, and whether you choose prefinished or primed panels.

For homeowners in Lafayette and surrounding areas, the average price to install LP SmartSide siding ranges from $9.00 to $14.00 per square foot. For a 2,000-square-foot exterior, that equals a total cost of $18,000 to $28,000, including labor and materials.

Cost Breakdown

• Primed panels (painted after install): $9.00–$11.00 per sq ft
• Prefinished panels: $11.00–$14.00 per sq ft
• Trim and accessories: May add $1,500–$3,000 to overall budget
• Removal of old siding: Additional $1,000–$2,500 depending on siding type and condition

Compared to fiber cement siding, LP SmartSide typically costs slightly less and is faster to install, which can reduce labor costs.

LP SmartSide vs. Other Siding Options

Wondering how LP SmartSide compares to other materials? Here’s a quick side-by-side overview.

LP SmartSide vs. Vinyl Siding

• Appearance: LP SmartSide offers a more natural, wood-like finish
• Durability: Vinyl resists fading, while SmartSide resists impact and pests
• Maintenance: Vinyl is lower-maintenance, but SmartSide is easier to repair
• Cost: Vinyl is generally cheaper upfront

LP SmartSide vs. Fiber Cement

• Weight: SmartSide is lighter and easier to handle than fiber cement
• Installation: SmartSide installs with standard woodworking tools
• Moisture resistance: Fiber cement may perform better in extremely wet climates, but SmartSide is highly resistant thanks to SmartGuard
• Cost: LP SmartSide often comes in slightly under fiber cement pricing

Styles, Colors, and Finish Options

LP SmartSide comes in several styles to match different home aesthetics. You can also choose between primed panels (for custom paint colors) or prefinished options in factory-applied colors.

Popular Profiles

• Lap siding: Horizontal boards for a classic look
• Panel siding: Vertical sheets often used for modern or craftsman-style homes
• Shake siding: Imitates hand-split cedar shakes
• Trim boards: Used around windows, doors, and corners

Finish Options

• Primed: Ready for on-site painting after installation
• Prefinished: Available in a wide range of baked-on color options with factory warranties

Factory finishing can improve color consistency and save time during the installation process.

Is LP SmartSide Right for Your Lafayette Home?

Choosing LP SmartSide siding depends on your goals. If you’re looking for a siding product that balances natural wood aesthetics with increased durability, it could be a great fit.

Homeowners who want a longer-lasting alternative to traditional wood or a premium upgrade from vinyl often find SmartSide to be the right middle ground. It’s ideal for homes in Lafayette that face seasonal temperature swings, rain, and pests.

When selecting siding, consider your long-term maintenance preferences, aesthetic goals, and energy efficiency needs. LP SmartSide gives you flexibility in both design and durability, especially when installed by professionals who understand the product and local climate.

Elevate Your Curb Appeal with Smart Solutions

At Discount Roof, we help Lafayette homeowners choose and install LP SmartSide siding with confidence. Our siding specialists will walk you through product options, color selections, and pricing to ensure you get the best fit for your home and budget.

Whether you’re replacing worn-out siding or refreshing your home’s exterior, our team is ready to help.

Contact Discount Roof today to schedule your free LP SmartSide siding consultation. Let’s give your home lasting beauty and protection.