When having siding replaced on your home, the right material makes all the difference. Two of the most popular choices among Kansas City area homeowners are elegant James Hardie® fiber cement siding and attractive LP SmartSide® engineered wood siding.
Here’s a closer look at what makes these high-performing, attractive sidings special, so you can choose what is best for your home.
Performance and Durability
Both Hardie and LP SmartSide have unique considerations to keep in mind as you weigh which one might be better for you.
James Hardie
James Hardie is the #1 fiber cement siding on the market because it’s so effective at protecting homes. It stands up beautifully against termites, carpenter ants, carpenter bees, and woodpeckers, because these pests cannot eat or live in fiber cement. In addition, Hardie siding is extremely fire resistant. In fact, it’s rated as non-combustible and will not add fuel to a fire—a much better fire rating than LP SmartSide’s engineered wood. This advantage can even lead to lower premiums from some home insurers.
LP SmartSide
If you prefer the look of wood, LP SmartSide provides an appealing fit. This attractive siding offers an eye-catching duotone wood grain style that is hard to compete with. LP SmartSide boards come in longer lengths, with fewer visible seams to impede your home’s curb appeal. In terms of performance, it weighs less than Hardie siding—which may be a better match if your home has foundation issues that you don’t want to worsen.
Warranty Features
One of the most vital aspects to consider when doing any home improvement project is which parts of the work and materials will be warrantied. Hardie siding excels in this area. Here’s why.
James Hardie
Hardie siding comes with a 30-year, non-prorated warranty that is transferable to the next owner, an appealing plus to buyers when you put your home on the market. If your siding is defective, the damaged portions can be repaired or replaced, with a reimbursement of up to twice the original retail cost. (That’s impressive!) The warranty applies to homeowners who have had a proper installation, making it important to choose a well-trained Hardie Elite Preferred contractor (like us!) to perform the work to the manufacturer’s stringent standards.
LP SmartSide
LP SmartSide siding is warrantied for up to 50 years, but that guarantee comes with significant restrictions that can make Hardie siding a better choice. For instance, LP SmartSide prorates their warranty. If problems crop up in the first five years, the warranty covers 100% labor and replacement costs. After that, you’ll receive reimbursement for materials only (not labor) up to the cost of similar wood-based replacement products minus the annual prorated reduction.
Cost Factors
No matter your goals, we understand that your budget is part of the equation. If you’re looking at installation costs, there are ways to adjust the overall cost of Hardie and LP SmartSide a bit.
James Hardie
If you’re comparing materials and pricing, you might find it advantageous to choose pre-finished Hardie siding. Because pre-finished boards are infused with color in the factory, their ColorPlus® Technology is warrantied for 15 years against chipping and fading. You’ll paint it less often, which saves on maintenance.
(Note: Pre-primed Hardie siding is less costly upfront but requires more frequent painting over time, so keep that in mind as you decide what to install.)
LP SmartSide
Many siding materials, including Hardie, must be attached to strong sheathing (a protective layer atop structural beams, studs, and insulation). But LP SmartSide siding can be nailed directly onto your home’s studs. If your exterior lacks sheathing or if you want to save on costs while upgrading a house that has sheathing damage, LP SmartSide might be a good option. You won’t be required to install sheathing with this particular siding, although any rotted structural elements should be addressed before your new siding is set in place.
Beautify Your Exterior with Lovely New Siding Installed by Our Local Team
When you’re ready to transform your home with gorgeous, lasting new siding, both LP SmartSide and James Hardie have appeal. But Hardie’s superior warranty coverage, strong performance against pests and wet weather, and lasting good looks give it an edge. Most Kansas City homeowners we meet prefer the advantages Hardie siding delivers.
Why not envision your home with this luxurious, eye-catching, durable siding? Check out the beautiful, versatile colors and styles that Hardie siding comes in.
