Homeowners typically face a wide range of costs when choosing between LP Smart Siding and Hardie Board. The main price drivers include material type, labor time, installation complexity, and regional pricing. This article presents cost estimates and practical budgeting guidance for U.S. buyers seeking a clear cost comparison and pricing guidance.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials (siding boards) | $2.00/sq ft | $4.50/sq ft | $6.50/sq ft | LP SmartSide around $2.50–$5.50; HardieBoard around $4–$7+ per sq ft |
| Labor (installation) | $3.00/sq ft | $5.50/sq ft | $9.00/sq ft | Labor varies with complexity and height |
| Equipment & Scaffolding | $0.50/sq ft | $1.50/sq ft | $2.50/sq ft | Includes rental and setup |
| Permits & Inspections | $100 | $350 | $1,000 | Region-dependent |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0.20/sq ft | $0.60/sq ft | $1.20/sq ft | Waste and packaging removal |
| Warranty | $0.10/sq ft | $0.25/sq ft | $0.40/sq ft | Material and workmanship |
| Taxes & Overhead | $0.40/sq ft | $1.00/sq ft | $2.00/sq ft | Proportional to project value |
| Typical Total (1,500 sq ft) | $9,000 | $16,500 | $28,000 | Totals include all components |
Assumptions: region, project size, and local labor rates vary; prices shown are installed costs for standard 6″ exposure with typical two-story walls.
Overview Of Costs
Both siding options have similar overall cost structures, with the largest share typically going to materials and labor. LP SmartSide generally offers a lower starting price per square foot, but installation complexity and long-term maintenance can shift the total toward Hardie Board in some projects. The table above summarizes total project ranges and per-unit ranges with brief assumptions to help buyers compare value and budget accordingly.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2.00 | $4.50 | $6.50 | LP SmartSide is typically lower per sq ft; Hardie Board fibers cement is higher |
| Labor | $3.00 | $5.50 | $9.00 | Installation time varies by height and complexity |
| Equipment | $0.50 | $1.50 | $2.50 | Scaffolding, lifts, and edge tools |
| Permits | $100 | $350 | $1,000 | Local code compliance |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0.20 | $0.60 | $1.20 | Materials plus debris handling |
| Warranty | $0.10 | $0.25 | $0.40 | Material and workmanship coverage |
| Taxes/Overhead | $0.40 | $1.00 | $2.00 | Indirect costs and company overhead |
Cost drivers include wall height, linear footage, and climate-related considerations that affect installation time. A mini formula tag can help visualize labor cost: data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”>
What Drives Price
Key price variables are material type, seam details, and fastening systems. Hardie Board fiber cement generally commands higher material costs due to board density and installation requirements, while LP SmartSide often saves upfront on material but may require longer-term maintenance to preserve appearance.
Ways To Save
Cost-conscious choices include selecting standard panel sizes, minimizing custom trim, and scheduling work in off-peak seasons. Consider negotiating bundled pricing for materials and labor, and verify local rebates or incentives for weather-resistant home improvements.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to labor markets and material transport. In the Northeast, expect higher labor rates and permit costs; the Midwest often balances price with strong competitive bids; the South may have lower labor costs but higher material shipping charges for certain products. Typical regional deltas range from -10% to +15% relative to the national average.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor hours depend on wall area, height, and substrate condition. Typical crews install siding at 60–120 sq ft per hour for vinyl-looking installations, while fiber cement requires more time per square foot due to cutting and fastening needs. Assumptions: two-person crew, standard walls, no extensive repairs.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Basic — 1,200 sq ft single-story home, LP SmartSide, standard trim, no gutter work.
Specs: materials $2.20/sq ft, labor $4.00/sq ft, permits $200, delivery $0.60/sq ft; Total: $11,000–$13,000; $/sq ft: $9–$11.
Assumptions: region: Midwest.
Mid-Range — 1,500 sq ft two-story, Hardie Board, basic soffit, wrap, and sealant.
Specs: materials $5.50/sq ft, labor $6.50/sq ft, permits $500, disposal $0.90/sq ft; Total: $28,000–$34,000; $/sq ft: $18–$22.
Assumptions: region: Northeast; height: two stories.
Premium — 2,000 sq ft with custom trim, three-story elevation, Hardie Board, extra insulation.
Specs: materials $7.00/sq ft, labor $9.00/sq ft, permits $1,000, disposal $1.20/sq ft; Total: $50,000–$64,000; $/sq ft: $25–$32.
Assumptions: region: West Coast; complex features incl. incline.