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Ever wonder why some homes look new year after year — even after getting pummeled by harsh weather? It usually comes down to the siding. If yours has seen better days, consider switching to LP SmartSide, an engineered wood product designed to keep your home looking sharp longer than many traditional materials can manage. Around Chicagoland, installation typically falls between $7 and $13 per square foot, though final numbers vary based on the specific product line and your home’s layout.
As a certified LP SmartSide installer in the Chicagoland area, we’ve seen every type of material out there. LP SmartSide consistently stands out thanks to a blend of toughness, great aesthetics, and surprising versatility. Keep reading if you’re tired of generic information and want real insights into what makes LP SmartSide a game-changer.
What Truly Sets LP SmartSide Apart
When it comes to enhancing a home’s exterior, LP SmartSide continues to stand out for its innovative design and reliable performance. Recently featured in USA Today's America's Climate Leaders list for 2024, LP Building Solutions has a solid track record of eco-conscious manufacturing and product excellence. Their dedication is evident across their product lines, from standard lap siding to versatile panels. These siding options boast remarkable durability, minimal upkeep, and an extensive selection of styles to fit just about any taste.
Before diving into the specific product lines, it’s worth understanding what truly elevates LP SmartSide above other materials. Unlike standard wood or fiber cement siding, LP SmartSide benefits from a specialized process known as SmartGuard®. This method leverages zinc borate, advanced resin technology, and specialized waxes to produce engineered wood strands that repel fungal growth, resist termites, and stand up to harsh weather conditions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Superior durability & impact resistance | Higher initial investment |
| Natural wood-like appearance | Requires professional installation |
| Extended warranty coverage | Some climate-specific installation rules |
| Lower day-to-day maintenance needs | Installation errors may void the warranty |
Breaking Down LP SmartSide Product Lines
One reason LP SmartSide remains so popular is the wide selection of siding products. Whether you lean toward a classic design or want to embrace modern flair, there’s an option that aligns perfectly with your vision and budget.
Lap Siding Collections
Considered the cornerstone of the LP SmartSide lineup, lap siding is offered in various textures and profiles. Each plank can be up to 16 feet in length, resulting in fewer seams and a tidier finish overall. Every board is pre-primed, making it easy to paint in whatever shade you prefer — ranging from subdued neutrals to bold, eye-catching hues.
Panel and Vertical Siding
If you’re aiming for a more contemporary exterior or a dramatic accent wall, LP SmartSide’s panel siding provides plenty of design flexibility. These larger panels can accelerate installation, which may reduce labor expenses. Crafted with engineered wood, they provide improved stability and can handle impacts better than some fiber cement alternatives.
Cedar Texture and Smooth Finish Options
From rustic cedar shakes to sleek, modern surfaces, LP SmartSide caters to multiple design styles. Their cedar texture sidings offer deep, realistic grain patterns for a classic wood aesthetic, while smooth finish panels add a refined, modern look. Both types are designed to stay robust and attractive through challenging weather conditions.
Value Beyond the Price Tag
LP SmartSide is known for its solid return on investment. Although its material costs may be higher than vinyl siding, the benefits often outshine that initial price difference in the long run.
Below is a breakdown of typical pricing:
- Entry-level panels: $4.50-$6.50 per square foot.
- Premium lap siding: $6.50-$8.50 per square foot.
- Specialty profiles: $8-$11 per square foot.
These higher upfront costs are frequently offset by enhanced durability, lower maintenance requirements, and increased energy efficiency over time. Many homeowners find that LP SmartSide’s extended lifespan and fewer upkeep needs make it a more economical choice overall.
Protection That Stands the Test of Time
LP SmartSide’s commitment to durability is evident in its impressive performance ratings. The engineered wood construction resists hail impact and windblown debris more effectively than many competing products. Testing also shows that it can handle extreme temperatures ranging from -20°F to 160°F, along with high humidity and strong UV exposure.
Real-world data confirms that, when installed correctly, LP SmartSide maintains both its appearance and structural integrity for decades. This is largely thanks to the SmartGuard® process, which provides outstanding protection against moisture infiltration and helps prevent many of the issues commonly associated with traditional wood siding.
Maintenance Requirements
One standout advantage of LP SmartSide is its minimal upkeep. With conventional wood siding, you might be stuck refinishing every few years, while fiber cement can crack and need patching.
LP SmartSide, on the other hand, typically just needs an occasional inspection and a mild cleaning with household detergent. Its engineered composition helps ward off warping, splitting, and peeling, so you can enjoy a clean, polished look without dedicating endless weekends to repair work.
Warranty Coverage
LP SmartSide includes a 50-year prorated limited warranty — one of the most robust warranties in the industry. For the first five years, this coverage extends to labor costs, protecting against manufacturing defects, hail-related damage, significant color fading, and even substrate failure.
The warranty is also transferable, which can be a selling point if you ever decide to move. Keep in mind, however, that proper installation by certified professionals is crucial. LP’s strong warranty underscores the confidence they have in their siding, giving homeowners peace of mind that their investment is safeguarded for decades to come.
When comparing LP SmartSide to other materials like James Hardie fiber cement or traditional wood siding, it’s important to evaluate both short-term costs and long-term performance. While the initial expense may be higher, the reduced maintenance and extended lifespan frequently offer better overall value.
Comparing LP SmartSide to Other Siding Options
Choosing the perfect siding for your home can be a serious challenge, especially when there are several high-quality materials competing for your attention. Use the following comparisons to understand how LP SmartSide fares against other popular choices.
LP SmartSide vs. James Hardie
LP SmartSide and James Hardie both produce premium siding, but each has its own strengths. LP’s engineered wood construction is lighter and often simpler to install than Hardie’s fiber cement. James Hardie excels when it comes to fire resistance and a wide color palette, while LP SmartSide takes the lead on impact resistance and that sought-after wood-like aesthetic.
| Feature | LP SmartSide | James Hardie |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Range | $7-$13/sq ft | $8-$14/sq ft |
| Material Type | Engineered wood | Fiber cement |
| Key Strengths | Wood look, impact resistance | Fire rating, color variety |
| Maintenance | Moderate requirements | Higher maintenance |
| Installation | Faster, lighter | More complex, heavier |
LP SmartSide vs. Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is known for its low initial cost and negligible maintenance, but it can’t match LP SmartSide’s durability or wood-like appeal. Vinyl may be a good option if you’re on a tight budget, yet LP SmartSide offers better insulation, stronger impact resistance, and potential gains in home value.
| Feature | LP SmartSide | Vinyl Siding |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Range | $7-$13/sq ft | $4-$8/sq ft |
| Material Type | Engineered wood | Vinyl |
| Key Strengths | Durability, authentic look | Low cost, no maintenance |
| Maintenance | Moderate requirements | Minimal needs |
| Installation | Professional required | DIY possible |
LP SmartSide vs. Traditional Wood
Homeowners who love the look of natural wood often find that LP SmartSide offers the same charm but with less hassle. Traditional wood siding can be customized in limitless ways, yet it’s prone to moisture problems, insects, and decay. LP SmartSide’s engineered design helps prevent these common issues while cutting down on the frequent maintenance demanded by real wood.
| Feature | LP SmartSide | Traditional Wood |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Range | $7-$13/sq ft | $8-$12/sq ft |
| Material Type | Engineered wood | Natural wood |
| Key Strengths | Durability, low maintenance | Authentic, customizable |
| Maintenance | Moderate requirements | High maintenance |
| Installation | Consistent quality | Variable quality |
Transform Your Home with LP SmartSide Excellence
LP SmartSide stands out for homeowners seeking a balance of authentic wood appeal and modern resilience. Its 50-year prorated warranty, SmartGuard® moisture protection, and remarkable ability to weather the harshest conditions make it an investment that pays dividends in longevity and peace of mind. Although it may cost more initially than standard siding options, its durability, decreased upkeep expenses, and noticeable boost to property value frequently prove worthwhile over time.
Greater Midwest Exteriors has decades of hands-on experience with LP SmartSide installation, ensuring every project reflects a commitment to precision and craftsmanship. Interested in giving your home’s exterior a significant upgrade? Reach out for a free consultation, and learn why LP SmartSide is rapidly becoming the go-to solution for discerning homeowners in Chicagoland.
