Homeowners typically pay for siding based on material cost, installation labor, and site prep. This guide provides cost ranges in USD for Lp SmartSide and Hardie Fiber Cement, highlighting the main price drivers and concrete per-square-foot figures for accurate budgeting.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Installed cost per sq ft | $4.00 | $6.50 | $9.00 | Includes material, labor, basic trim, and fasteners |
| Lp SmartSide total installed (1,500 sq ft) | $6,000 | $9,750 | $13,500 | Midwest-to-Sun Belt ranges typical |
| Hardie Fiber Cement total installed (1,500 sq ft) | $13,500 | $18,750 | $26,250 | Includes primer, coatings, and trim |
| Labor rate range (per hour) | $45 | $65 | $95 | Varies by region and crew size |
| Material-only cost per sq ft | $2.50 | $3.50 | $6.00 | Labor not included |
Assumptions: Midwest to Southeast labor rates, standard 1-story or 1.5-story homes, normal access, and typical weather window for exterior work.
What Buyers Usually Pay for Lp SmartSide vs Hardie
Typical total price ranges reflect a full siding replacement on a standard 1,500 sq ft residence. For Lp SmartSide, expect about $6,000 to $13,500 installed depending on trim details, insulation, and access. For Hardie Fiber Cement, budget roughly $13,500 to $26,250 installed, influenced by board profile, coatings, and corner treatments. Per-square-foot comparisons commonly fall around $4-$9 for Lp and $9-$14 for Hardie when installed, with higher costs tied to premium finishes and larger homes.
Assumptions: single-story, normal window openings, standard thickness, and competent local crews. Regions with severe weather or restricted access can push prices toward the high end.
Major Cost Components in a Siding Quote
The quote typically breaks down into four to six elements. Materials cover the board type, thickness, and finish; Labor accounts for removal of existing siding, surface prep, and installation; Preparation and System Accessories include moisture barriers, fasteners, and corner trims; Permits and Inspections may apply in some jurisdictions; Delivery/Disposal handles haul-away and material drop-off.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2.50 | $3.50 | $6.00 | Board, coating, trim |
| Labor | $2.50 | $3.50 | $5.50 | Crew hours, regional rates |
| Preparation/Installation Accessories | $0.50 | $1.25 | $2.50 | Moisture barrier, flashings |
| Permits | $0 | $300 | $1,000 | Varies by city/permit level |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0 | $350 | $800 | Drop-off fees, haul-away |
Formula note: used to estimate labor cost when hours and rates are known.
Variables That Most Affect the Final Quote
Two key drivers push cost up or down: panel profile and thickness and region/climate zone. For Lp SmartSide, choosing a premium composite profile plus 7/16″ or 1″ board thickness can add $0.75-$2.50 per sq ft. For Hardie, opting for thicker fiber cement, bigger panel widths, or an more complex bevel or reveal adds $1.50-$3.50 per sq ft. Climate zones with high humidity or freeze-thaw cycles also drive coatings and moisture-control costs.
Assumptions: standard 1,500 sq ft home, three-season install window, standard paint/finish options.
Practical Ways to Reduce Siding Costs Without Sacrificing Durability
Controlling scope is the most direct approach. Choose material and finish combos with fewer edge trims and avoid premium profiles unless needed. Bundle multiple exterior updates (windows, soffit, fascia) into one project to reduce mobilization costs. Consider replacement instead of full removal if the existing sheathing is sound, and compare quotes from at least three local contractors to avoid overpaying for labor. Scheduling in shoulder seasons can also lower rates.
Regional Price Variations for Siding Materials
Prices vary by region due to labor markets and material transport. In the West, installed Lp SmartSide often lands toward the upper end of $5-$9 per sq ft, while the Midwest can sit around $4-$7 per sq ft. Hardie tends to be $11-$14 per sq ft in many coastal markets and $9-$12 per sq ft in inland regions. For a 1,500 sq ft home, regional delta could reach several thousand dollars.
Labor Time, Crew Size, and Scheduling Impacts
A standard crew works about 2.5-3.5 days on a 1,500 sq ft project depending on complexity. A larger crew accelerates completion but can raise mobilization costs. Hourly labor rates typically range from $45 to $95 depending on region and crew experience, with per-sq-ft labor efficiency changing the average by roughly 0.50-$1.50 per sq ft.
Common Add-Ons and Prep Work to Expect
Prep work like removing old siding, repairing sheathing, and upgrading flashing can add $1.00-$2.50 per sq ft. Decorative trim, ventilation details, and paint coatings on the new siding may add another $0.50-$2.00 per sq ft. Vulnerable areas near windows or doors sometimes require extra sealants or weathering protection.
Three Real-World Quote Scenarios for a 1,500 sq ft Home
- Lp SmartSide, basic finish, single-story: $6,000-$8,500 total; materials $3.00-$4.50 per sq ft; labor $2.50-$3.50 per sq ft.
- Hardie Fiber Cement, standard profile, two-story entry, mild climate: $18,000-$22,000 total; materials $6.50-$9.50 per sq ft; labor $6.00-$9.00 per sq ft.
- Hybrid approach (LpSmartSide on gables, Hardie on walls), regional coastal climate: $15,000-$20,000 total; materials $3.50-$5.50 per sq ft; labor $3.50-$6.50 per sq ft.