If you’re searching for the best siding for your home, you’ve probably come across two of the biggest names in the industry: Hardie Board siding (James Hardie fiber cement) and LP Smart Siding (LP SmartSide engineered wood). Both are well-known for their durability, curb appeal, and ability to protect your home from the elements — but they’re built differently, perform differently, and require different levels of maintenance.
Whether you’re replacing old siding or building a new home, understanding the differences between fiber cement and engineered wood siding will help you make a smarter choice that fits your climate, budget, and style preferences.
What is Hardie Board Siding?
Hardie Board siding, made by James Hardie, is a fiber cement siding composed of Portland cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. This combination creates a strong, weather-resistant material that’s designed to last decades.
Key Benefits of Hardie Board:
- Fire Resistance – Completely non-combustible, making it ideal for wildfire-prone areas.
- Rot & Pest Resistance – Impervious to termites and won’t rot or warp from moisture.
- Low Maintenance – Requires little upkeep beyond cleaning and repainting every 10–15 years (with ColorPlus® finish, repainting may not be needed for 15 years or more).
- ColorPlus® Technology – Factory-applied finish that resists fading, chipping, and peeling.
Design Options:
Hardie Board is available in lap siding, vertical panels, and shingle styles, with both smooth and wood-grain textures. You can choose from a variety of factory colors or order it primed for a custom paint job.
What is LP Smart Siding?
LP Smart Siding, or LP SmartSide, is an engineered wood siding made from wood strands coated in resins, wax, and zinc borate. This manufacturing process enhances durability and resistance to rot, insects, and moisture.
Key Benefits of LP Smart Siding:
- Impact Resistance – Outperforms fiber cement in resisting dents from hail or debris (based on LP-sponsored testing).
- Easier Installation – Lighter weight and longer boards make installation faster (LP claims up to 22% faster than fiber cement).
- Natural Wood Look – Deeper grain texture for a more rustic, authentic wood appearance.
- SmartGuard® Protection – Prevents rot and deters termites for long-lasting performance.
Design Options:
LP Smart Siding comes in lap siding, panel siding, and shakes, with a variety of finishes. It can be purchased prefinished or primed for custom colors.
Hardie Board vs. LP Smart Siding: At-a-Glance Comparison
| Feature | James Hardie Siding (Hardie Board) | LP Smart Siding (LP SmartSide) |
| Material | Fiber Cement (cement, sand, cellulose fibers) | Engineered Wood (wood strands, resins, wax, zinc borate) |
| Lifespan* | 40–50 years (typical contractor estimate; 30-year non-prorated warranty) | 20–30 years (typical contractor estimate; 50-year prorated warranty) |
| Fire Resistance | Non-combustible (ASTM E136 rated) | Combustible (wood-based); can meet code in fire-rated wall assemblies |
| Impact Resistance | Good, but more brittle | Excellent |
| Maintenance | Minimal, repaint every 10–15 years | Typically repaint every 5–10 years |
| Installation | Heavy, requires specialized tools | Lighter, easier to install |
| Warranty | 30-year non-prorated; 15-year ColorPlus® | 50-year limited (prorated after 5 years) |
| Cost | National average: $6–$15 per sq. ft. installed; higher in some regions | National average: $6–$13 per sq. ft. installed; higher in some regions |
*Lifespan figures are industry averages and depend heavily on climate, installation quality, and maintenance.
Durability & Performance
When comparing LP Smart Siding vs. Hardie Board for durability, the decision often comes down to what type of protection you need most.
- Hardie Board (fiber cement) is built for longevity and excels in resisting heat, cold, and moisture. It won’t absorb water, rot, or attract pests, and it’s approved for use in high-wind zones, including Miami-Dade HVHZ areas, when installed according to product approvals.
- LP Smart Siding (engineered wood) offers exceptional impact resistance, making it a great choice for hail-prone areas. However, it is combustible and not as fire-resistant as fiber cement. Proper installation is crucial to avoid moisture intrusion.
Maintenance Needs
Both siding options require far less maintenance and upkeep than natural wood, but there are differences:
- Hardie Board – Clean occasionally and repaint every 10–15 years (with ColorPlus, often 15 years or longer before repainting is needed).
- LP Smart Siding – Clean annually and repaint every 5–10 years, depending on sun exposure and climate.
Installation Differences
Fiber cement siding like Hardie Board is heavier and requires specialized cutting tools and installation expertise, which can increase labor costs.
Engineered wood siding like LP Smart Siding is lighter, easier to cut, and can be installed more quickly using standard woodworking tools — often reducing labor time and costs.
Cost Considerations
Both products typically cost $6–$15 per square foot installed nationally, though prices can climb higher in regions with higher labor rates or more complex installation needs.
- Hardie Board – At $6-$15 per sq. ft., the cost of materials is the same; however, the cost is slightly higher labor costs due to complexity, but long-term savings from reduced maintenance and greater durability.
- LP Smart Siding – At $6-$13 per sq. ft., these material options can be either the same or slightly lower, but the main difference is that installation has lower initial labor costs, but more frequent repainting may increase total lifetime costs.
Warranty Coverage
- Hardie Board – 30-year non-prorated siding warranty and 15-year ColorPlus® finish warranty.
- LP Smart Siding – 50-year limited warranty with full labor and replacement coverage for the first five years, then prorated coverage for the remaining 45 years.
Appearance & Style
If aesthetic appeal is a major factor in your decision:
- Hardie Board – More subtle, refined wood texture; versatile style range.
- LP Smart Siding – More pronounced wood grain for a bold, rustic look.
Environmental Considerations
Both brands take sustainability seriously:
- Hardie Board – Made from sustainable raw materials; long lifespan reduces waste.
- LP Smart Siding – Made from renewable wood sources and follows sustainable forestry practices.
Pros & Cons Recap
When it comes to Hardie Board, the big draw is its staying power. With proper care, it can last 40–50 years, making it one of the most durable siding materials available. It’s also non-combustible, so fire isn’t a concern, and it resists pests and rot with ease. Maintenance is minimal compared to other options, which many homeowners love. The trade-off? It’s heavier, takes longer to install, and typically costs more upfront for labor.
LP Smart Siding, on the other hand, wins points for its toughness against impacts — it can take a hit from hail or debris better than fiber cement. It’s lighter, so installation is faster and labor is often more affordable. Plus, its wood-grain appearance is a big hit with those who want a natural look. The downside is that it’s still a wood-based product, so it’s combustible, it generally won’t last as long as fiber cement, and you’ll likely need to repaint more often to keep it looking fresh.
Should You Choose LP Siding or James Hardie Siding for Your Home?
If your priority is fire resistance, minimal maintenance, and maximum longevity, Hardie Board siding is a strong investment. If you want a faster installation, a bold wood-grain look, and exceptional impact resistance, LP Smart Siding may be the better fit.
Your climate, budget, and style preferences will ultimately guide the best siding choice for your home. And whichever siding you choose, proper installation by an experienced contractor is critical to getting the full benefits of your siding.
Frequently Asked Questions – Hardie Board vs. LP Smart Siding
Q. What’s the key difference between Hardie Board and LP Smart Siding?
Hardie Board is fiber cement siding, while LP Smart Siding is engineered wood. This difference impacts fire resistance, impact resistance, and maintenance needs.
Q. Which siding lasts longer?
Hardie Board often lasts 40+ years with proper care, while LP Smart Siding typically lasts 20–30 years, even though the warranty is up to 50 years.
Q. Is LP Smart Siding cheaper to install?
Yes. LP Smart Siding is lighter and easier to cut, which can reduce labor costs. Material pricing is often similar.
Q. Which is better for fire resistance?
Hardie Board is non-combustible and ideal for wildfire-prone regions. LP Smart Siding is combustible but can meet fire code in rated wall assemblies.
Q. Which handles hail better?
LP Smart Siding generally offers better impact resistance, making it a strong choice in hail-prone areas.
Q. Can both be painted?
Yes. Both can be ordered prefinished or primed for a custom color.
Q. Which is more eco-friendly?
Both have sustainability benefits — Hardie for its long-lasting composition and LP for using renewable wood from responsibly managed forests.
