LP SmartSide vs James Hardie for Minneapolis Homes

From the cost of materials to the time it takes for installation, a lot goes into a successful siding replacement project in the Twin Cities. One of the most important factors in your siding replacement project is the siding you choose for your home.

Premium siding options will better protect your Minneapolis home from dramatic temperature changes, but they do come at a higher cost. That is why it is so important to pick the right siding manufacturer. Two of our most recommended manufacturers are LP SmartSide and James Hardie.

Both LP SmartSide and James Hardie produce excellent, durable siding. But they are made from different materials and have different maintenance requirements, installation considerations, and price points.

So, in the rest of this guide, we will look at LP SmartSide and James Hardie siding in more detail to help you determine which is the best option for your Minneapolis home.

What is LP SmartSide?

Let’s look at LP SmartSide and James Hardie siding in more detail, beginning with LP SmartSide’s products.

LP SmartSide is an engineered wood siding made from wood strands coated with a resin binder and compressed to create a strong, durable board. The manufacturer uses a proprietary treatment to add more strength and durability.

The siding comes in cedar-texture and brushed-smooth finishes. Therefore, it offers the appearance of natural wood without some of the drawbacks associated with traditional wood siding. Additionally, LP SmartSide siding is lightweight, relatively easy to install, and available in a variety of colors and styles.

What is James Hardie Siding?

On the other hand, James Hardie offers fiber cement siding made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It has a dense construction that provides high durability, bug resistance, and weather resistance.

Many homeowners prefer James Hardie siding because it can replicate the appearance of traditional wood siding while offering heavier-duty construction. It is also designed for demanding climates, such as Minnesota’s harsh winters and severe storms.

LP SmartSide vs. James Hardie: Key Differences

You don’t have to rely on your memory to recall the key differences between LP SmartSide and James Hardie siding, however. Here is a handy chart for your convenience.

Factors to Consider

Both LP SmartSide and James Hardie siding have advantages and disadvantages to consider. However, when choosing the siding that is right for your Twin Cities home, you need to consider all of the following factors.

Durability

Minnesota’s weather can provide significant wear on a home’s exterior. That is why the durability of your siding is so essential.

Both LP SmartSide and James Hardie siding are designed to provide long-lasting protection against the elements. LP SmartSide offers strength and resistance to moisture and insects, while James Hardie products are known for their ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. However, both will require proper installation and maintenance to ensure you receive the most durable product possible.

Cost

Cost will be another important consideration in the siding you choose, as it is one of the most important factors in the overall cost of your siding replacement project.

In general, LP SmartSide will be less expensive than James Hardie. The product itself is less expensive. It is also lighter and easier to install, which will reduce the overall project costs.

Homeowners who expect to stay in their homes for many years may want to consider James Hardie siding. While the upfront costs may be higher, its durability and long-term performance may increase the value of the siding over time.

Maintenance

Most homeowners do not have unlimited time to spend maintaining their siding. Choosing a siding with maintenance requirements you can meet is essential to planning a successful replacement.

Neither LP SmartSide nor James Hardie siding is completely maintenance-free. You will need to inspect and periodically repaint or refinish both. The team at SMC Construction, Inc. can discuss the maintenance requirements of both with you during the planning phase, so that you can choose the product best suited to your lifestyle.

Appearance

Both LP SmartSide and James Hardie siding are designed to mimic the appearance of natural wood siding. They also both have a variety of profiles, colors, and trim options. However, LP SmartSide tends to stick to traditional wood finishes while James Hardie offers a greater range of textures and profiles.

When choosing between the two, consider how the siding will coordinate with the overall aesthetic of your Minneapolis home.

Installation

Finally, ease of installation should be a consideration when deciding between LP SmartSide and James Hardie siding. Installation can significantly impact the longevity of your new siding. Plus, the easier the siding is to install, the less expensive the replacement project will be.

LP SmartSide is relatively lightweight, which makes it easier to handle and install. On the other hand, James Hardie siding is heavier and generally requires more specialized installation techniques. The team at SMC Construction, Inc. can install both siding products with ease and help you compare your options to determine the best siding system for your home.

Should You Choose LP SmartSide or James Hardie Siding?

There is no single answer to which siding manufacturer is best. There is just the product that works with your home, needs, and budget. Use the following list to determine whether you should choose LP SmartSide or James Hardie siding for your next siding replacement project.

Choose LP SmartSide if you:

• Want a natural wood appearance
• Prefer a lightweight siding material
• Want to keep initial costs lower than Hardie
• Are comfortable with periodic maintenance
• Want a durable engineered wood product
• Prefer easier material handling and installation

Choose James Hardie if you:

• Prioritize exceptional durability
• Want fiber cement siding
• Prefer a premium exterior product
• Want siding designed for demanding weather
• Don’t mind a higher upfront investment
• Like the appearance of traditional wood siding

No matter which siding you choose, the team at SMC Construction, Inc. is here to help you every step of the way. From our initial inspection to final walkthrough, we will be with you through every step of the process. Let our professionals help you weigh your options and choose the premium siding that will work best for your Minneapolis home. Contact SMC Construction, Inc. today to learn more.