Homeowners typically pay a range for siding projects, with material cost being the largest driver. This article compares LP SmartSide engineered wood and Hardie fiber cement, focusing on cost, price ranges, and value for US buyers. Cost considerations include material price, installation time, labor rates, and long-term maintenance.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material (LP SmartSide) | $2.25 | $3.25 | $4.25 | Per sq ft, smooth or textured panels |
| Material (Hardie Fiber Cement) | $3.50 | $5.00 | $6.50 | Per sq ft, with textured finishes |
| Installation Labor | $4.00 | $6.50 | $9.50 | Per sq ft; depends on complexity |
| Tools & Supplies | $0.75 | $1.75 | $3.00 | Fasteners, flashing, coatings |
| Additional & Hidden Costs | $0.50 | $1.50 | $3.50 | Permits, disposal, prep |
| Total Project (typical 1,500 sq ft) | $11,250 | $20,250 | $33,750 | Assumes standard single-story installation |
Overview Of Costs
The cost landscape for LP SmartSide and Hardie fiber cement siding depends on material type, thickness, and profile, plus labor and installation specifics. Typical price ranges per square foot help buyers compare options quickly. LP SmartSide generally starts lower at the material level, while Hardie adds premium due to fiber cement’s durability and finish options. The per-square-foot math translates into larger project totals for 1,500–2,500 sq ft homes. Assumptions: region, home’s complexity, and trim work vary costs.
Cost Breakdown
The breakdown below uses four to six columns to illustrate where money goes. Labor duration and crew size materially influence totals, even when material prices are fixed.
| Component | LP SmartSide | Hardie Fiber Cement | Per Sq Ft | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2.25-$4.25 | $3.50-$6.50 | Material only | Includes panels, trim, and moisture barriers |
| Labor | $4.00-$9.50 | $4.00-$9.50 | /sq ft | Labor intensity varies by profile and prep |
| Equipment | $0.50-$1.50 | $0.50-$1.50 | /sq ft | Scaffolding, saw blades, safety gear |
| Permits | $0.50-$1.50 | $0.50-$1.50 | one-time | Depends on local code |
| Disposal | $0.50-$1.50 | $0.50-$1.50 | /sq ft | Waste from old siding and debris |
| Warranty/Coatings | $0.50-$1.50 | $0.50-$2.50 | /sq ft | Sealers or topcoats if included |
| Taxes & Contingency | $0.50-$1.50 | $0.50-$1.50 | % of total | Typically 5–10% |
What Drives Price
Material choice remains the main driver, with Hardie fiber cement usually adding cost for the board material and finishing compared to LP SmartSide. Labor efficiency and installation complexity can shift totals by hundreds to thousands of dollars. Real-world factors include wall length, window/door openings, soffits, and the presence of damage requiring repair. Material availability and regional freight also impact pricing volatility.
Factors That Affect Price
Several variables influence final bids. Seamless alignment of trim, wrap, and moisture barriers can reduce labor hours and waste. Key drivers include: climate considerations for outdoor exposure, substrate condition, and the chosen profile (batten, tongue-and-groove, or panel). For LP SmartSide, board thickness and resin-based coatings affect durability; for Hardie, fiber cement thickness, weight, and texture choice matter. Regional labor rates and contractor experience also contribute to the spread between low and high estimates.
Ways To Save
Smart budgeting can target both material and labor. Bundle elevation work with other exterior projects to secure package pricing. Strategies include choosing standard profiles over custom textures, selecting one color in a durable finish, and coordinating siding with roofing and fascia work to minimize trips and equipment moves. If a house has many corners and irregular angles, expect higher installation time and costs. Consider a phased approach if upfront cash is limited or if seasonal pricing offers a window for discounts.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region, with three representative markets showing typical deltas. Coastal metro areas often carry higher costs due to labor availability and material handling. In the Midwest, prices tend to be moderate with relatively stable labor rates. In the Mountain West, rapid material freight and remote crews can push totals upward. A typical delta range is about +/- 15–25% depending on location and local competition.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor costs reflect crew size, timing, and work complexity. Labor hours per square foot increase with intricate trim or steep pitches. For a standard 1,500 sq ft single-story home, crews may range from 1.5 to 2.5 days for a basic job, up to 3.5–4.5 days for more elaborate installations. Scheduling during shoulder seasons can yield better availability and potential savings on crew rates.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate how choices affect outcomes. Each scenario uses consistent assumptions for a fair comparison.
Assumptions: region, house size 1,500 sq ft, standard gutters and trim, no major repairs, and mid-range colors.
- Basic LP SmartSide: materials $2.25-$3.50/sq ft; labor $4.00-$6.50; total $11,250-$18,750 for 1,500 sq ft.
- Mid-Range LP SmartSide: materials $3.00-$4.00/sq ft; labor $5.50-$7.50; total $16,500-$25,500.
- Premium Hardie Fiber Cement: materials $4.50-$6.50/sq ft; labor $7.00-$9.50; total $23,000-$35,000.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Price By Region
Three regional snapshots compare urban, suburban, and rural markets. Urban areas commonly report higher installed prices due to higher labor costs and stricter permit processes. Suburban markets often offer a balance of availability and pricing, while rural markets may show lower labor costs but increased material freight. Expect a ±10–25% swing from the national average depending on local conditions and contractor supply chains.
Conclusion: Price Comparison And Value
Choosing between LP SmartSide and Hardie fiber cement involves weighing upfront material costs against long-term maintenance and durability. Hardie tends to command higher upfront pricing but can offer favorable long-term maintenance economics in certain climates. LP SmartSide often provides more budget-friendly options with competitive appearance and quicker installation, though its long-term performance under extreme weather may influence maintenance needs. A candid bid review should separate material, labor, and potential hidden fees to avoid surprises.