What Is LP SmartSide?
When homeowners start exploring siding options, they often hear about LP SmartSide. It’s one of the most advanced engineered wood siding systems on the market, combining the warmth of real wood with the strength of modern manufacturing. At Elevate Construction, we’ve installed countless LP SmartSide siding projects for clients who want an exterior that looks stunning, performs in every season, and requires minimal maintenance. Understanding what it is and how it’s made helps homeowners choose confidently and invest wisely.
At its core, LP SmartSide is an engineered wood siding made from wood strands bonded together with industrial-grade resins and waxes. The boards are treated with zinc borate, a natural mineral that helps protect the material from fungal decay, moisture, and termite damage. This manufacturing process creates durable boards that perform far better than traditional wood siding without sacrificing the beauty of natural wood.
How LP SmartSide Is Manufactured
Every piece of LP SmartSide begins with carefully selected wood strands from renewable forests. The strands are coated in high-performance resins and waxes, then pressed under heat and pressure to form dense, engineered panels. The SmartGuard process infuses zinc borate throughout each board, not just on the surface, so the protection lasts for decades. After pressing, each panel receives a primer or finish coat depending on the product line. The result is a strong, stable siding that stands up to extreme temperatures, high humidity, and high winds without warping or cracking.
Why LP SmartSide Performs Better Than Traditional Wood
Unlike traditional wood, which absorbs moisture and expands with weather changes, LP SmartSide products stay dimensionally stable. The SmartGuard core locks out water and prevents fungal decay. Because the engineered wood strands are tightly compressed, they resist splitting and peeling. The boards are also longer—usually 16 feet—so installers can cover more surface with fewer seams. That cleaner look creates smoother lines and stronger curb appeal.
The LP SmartSide Product Family
LP offers a full system of siding, trim, and soffit components that work together for a complete, consistent look. Whether you’re building new or remodeling, there’s an LP SmartSide product for every style.
LP SmartSide Lap Siding
The most popular profile, lap siding, delivers timeless design with the appearance of cedar planks. Homeowners can choose from cedar-grain or smooth textures, each available primed or prefinished. These lightweight, durable boards are easy to install and cut cleanly, reducing labor costs. The long lengths reduce seams and create a polished appearance that enhances curb appeal.
LP SmartSide Panel, Vertical, and Shake Options
Panel siding is ideal for modern or craftsman styles. It can be used for board-and-batten looks or as a clean vertical surface on garages, sheds, or accents. LP SmartSide shakes replicate the hand-split charm of real wood and are perfect for gables or upper levels. All panels and shakes share the same engineered core and SmartGuard protection, ensuring consistent durability across the home’s exterior.
LP SmartSide Trim and Fascia
LP SmartSide trim and fascia complete the look of any project. They add crisp edges around windows, doors, and corners, tying the design together. The LP SmartSide ExpertFinish trim line comes prefinished in factory-applied colors for a uniform appearance and added protection. These components are engineered for strength, helping your siding system resist damage from moisture, termites, and extreme temperatures.
LP SmartSide ExpertFinish Colors
LP’s ExpertFinish collection includes 16 standard color options plus the Naturals line, which recreates the look of freshly stained wood. The finish is UV-resistant and applied under controlled conditions, giving homeowners a consistent, durable finish coat that resists fading and eliminates the need for on-site painting.
The Benefits of LP SmartSide Siding
Exceptional Durability
Every LP SmartSide siding product is built to endure extreme temperatures, high humidity, hail, and high winds. The engineered core provides structural strength, while the SmartGuard process shields against fungal decay and termite damage. This combination delivers exceptional durability and long-term confidence for homeowners who expect their investment to last.
Stunning Curb Appeal
LP SmartSide replicates the warmth and charm of natural wood through detailed textures and precise styles. The long boards and clean lines reduce visible seams, which helps create a sleek, cohesive look. Whether you choose cedar-grain lap or smooth panels, your home gains depth and sophistication that truly boosts curb appeal.
Eco-Friendly Construction
For environmentally conscious homeowners, LP SmartSide is a responsible choice. The company uses fast-growing, renewable wood resources and efficient manufacturing methods that minimize waste. LP SmartSide Lap Siding is even certified carbon negative, meaning it stores more carbon than it emits during manufacture. The result is a product that’s both strong and sustainable.
Lower Maintenance, More Value
Unlike traditional wood siding, LP SmartSide doesn’t need constant painting or staining to stay protected. Prefinished products like LP SmartSide ExpertFinish trim and siding arrive ready to install, saving homeowners time and money. Routine cleaning with mild soap and water is usually all it takes to keep the surface looking new.
Backed by a Proven Warranty
LP backs its engineered wood siding with an industry-leading 5/50-year limited warranty: five years of full coverage followed by 45 years prorated. ExpertFinish products include an additional 15-year finish warranty. When installed by certified professionals, this coverage provides long-term protection and peace of mind.
LP SmartSide vs. Other Siding Materials
LP SmartSide vs. Fiber Cement
Fiber cement siding is well known for strength but can be brittle and heavy. It requires specialized cutting tools and generates dust during installation. LP SmartSide offers similar durability with a lighter, easier-to-handle design. Because it cuts like wood, installers can work faster, reducing labor costs. It also delivers a warmer, more authentic wood siding look.
LP SmartSide vs. Vinyl
Vinyl siding is popular for affordability, but it lacks the depth and realism of engineered wood siding. It can crack in extreme temperatures and fade under UV exposure. LP SmartSide siding provides far greater durability, a richer aesthetic, and a higher return on investment. For homeowners looking to upgrade from builder-grade materials, LP SmartSide is the clear step up.
LP SmartSide vs. Traditional Wood
Traditional wood has undeniable beauty but is prone to moisture absorption, fungal decay, and termites. It demands regular painting and sealing to maintain performance. LP SmartSide products, by contrast, are treated for superior protection. The zinc borate in each panel defends against pests and rot, so the siding maintains its integrity in challenging climates. Many homeowners who love the appearance of natural wood choose LP SmartSide for its combination of authenticity and endurance.
The Cost of LP SmartSide Siding in 2025
Pricing for LP SmartSide siding varies depending on home size, design complexity, and selected finishes, but most projects fall between $9 and $15 per square foot installed. While the upfront investment is higher than basic vinyl, many homeowners find that lower maintenance, reduced labor costs, and longer lifespan make LP SmartSide a better long-term value. Choosing to install an engineered wood siding system is an investment in performance and curb appeal that pays off over decades.
Installation and Maintenance Best Practices
Why Proper Installation Matters
Because of its precision design, LP SmartSide must be installed according to LP’s official guidelines. Professional installation ensures the siding performs to its full potential and keeps warranties intact. At Elevate Construction, we install every LP SmartSide product with attention to detail, from weather barriers and flashing to tight seam alignment. When these engineered panels are handled correctly, they stay straight and beautiful for the lifetime of the home.
Easy Maintenance for Busy Homeowners
Maintaining LP SmartSide is simple. Wash it annually with a mild cleaner to remove dirt and pollen. Inspect caulking and trim joints once or twice a year, especially around doors and windows, to make sure seals remain tight. Because the material resists moisture and pests, upkeep is minimal compared to traditional wood siding. For prefinished products, routine cleaning helps preserve the color and sheen of the finish coat.
Why Many Homeowners Choose LP SmartSide
Homeowners appreciate that LP SmartSide siding blends strength and style. It offers customizable options in texture, color, and profile to match any architecture, from farmhouse to contemporary. The combination of engineered technology and real wood appearance provides the perfect balance of practicality and beauty. When you choose LP SmartSide, you’re choosing a siding system that stands strong in every season and looks incredible for decades.
LP SmartSide’s Commitment to Innovation
LP continues to refine its products, focusing on durability, design, and sustainability. The company’s latest lines include enhanced LP SmartSide trim, upgraded ExpertFinish coatings, and a growing range of color options that help homeowners create one-of-a-kind exteriors. Each innovation comes from decades of research into wood, moisture, and climate performance, ensuring that LP SmartSide remains a top choice for professional builders and discerning homeowners.
Why Elevate Construction Recommends LP SmartSide
At Elevate Construction, we specialize in exterior remodeling that transforms homes with lasting value. We’ve worked with countless siding systems over the years, and LP SmartSide consistently proves itself as one of the best. Our clients love its beautiful appearance, its proven durability, and the long-term protection it provides against damage from weather and insects. Whether you’re replacing aging wood siding or upgrading from vinyl, our experts can help you design a look that complements your home and fits your budget.
Our installation teams follow manufacturer specifications on every install, from precise nail spacing to moisture control. We understand how treated engineered materials respond to humidity, extreme temperatures, and moisture over time, so we plan every detail to keep your home protected. The result is a siding system that not only performs but also enhances your property’s curb appeal and value.
Frequently Asked Questions About LP SmartSide
How long does LP SmartSide last?
With proper installation and basic maintenance, LP SmartSide siding can last 50 years or more. Its advanced engineered wood design ensures long-term stability and performance.
Does LP SmartSide need painting?
If you choose primed products, a quality topcoat is required after installation. The prefinished ExpertFinish line eliminates that step, providing a factory-applied finish coat that’s ready to go the day it’s installed.
Can LP SmartSide handle hail or high winds?
Yes. The dense engineered wood panels are tested for impact resistance and can withstand hail, high winds, and extreme temperatures when properly fastened.
Is LP SmartSide environmentally friendly?
Absolutely. LP uses sustainable wood resources and efficient production practices. The carbon-negative claim for Lap Siding makes it a smart option for environmentally conscious homeowners.
How does LP SmartSide compare to Hardie or other fiber cement options?
It’s lighter, easier to cut, and less expensive to install. Fiber cement offers strength, but LP SmartSide delivers comparable durability with less weight and faster installation.
Can LP SmartSide be used with any architectural style?
Yes. With multiple textures, styles, and color options, you can create a look that perfectly complements your home’s design, whether classic or modern.
The Final Takeaway
LP SmartSide is more than just another siding option. It represents the future of engineered wood siding, bringing together science, sustainability, and style. From the SmartGuard process that uses zinc borate and resins to its long-lasting finish coat, every detail is designed for performance. The durability, beauty, and easy maintenance make it one of the most dependable choices for today’s homeowners.
If you’re planning an exterior upgrade or replacing old traditional wood, choose LP SmartSide for your next project. At Elevate Construction, our experienced team can guide you through styles, textures, and color options that best fit your vision. We’ll help you design and install a system that enhances your home’s curb appeal, saves you money over time, and provides lasting protection for decades to come.
Ready to transform your home with LP SmartSide? Contact Elevate Construction today for your free consultation and see how this innovative engineered wood siding can completely redefine your exterior.
