SmartSide Siding: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right siding for your home is a crucial decision that impacts not only its aesthetic appeal but also its durability, maintenance requirements, and overall value. With a plethora of siding options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to make the perfect choice. Among the popular contenders, SmartSide siding has emerged as a compelling alternative to traditional wood and vinyl siding, offering a unique blend of beauty, strength, and affordability. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of SmartSide siding, exploring its composition, advantages, disadvantages, installation process, maintenance tips, and how it stacks up against its competitors. Whether you’re a homeowner considering a siding replacement or a contractor seeking a reliable and versatile material, this guide provides the information you need to make an informed decision.

What is SmartSide Siding?

SmartSide siding, manufactured by Louisiana-Pacific (LP), is an engineered wood siding product designed to offer the aesthetic appeal of natural wood without the drawbacks of traditional wood siding. It is crafted using a proprietary process that combines wood strands with resins, waxes, and zinc borate, which are then pressed together to create a durable and weather-resistant material. This engineered construction makes SmartSide siding resistant to rot, decay, fungal growth, and termite infestation, common problems associated with natural wood siding.

The key to SmartSide’s performance lies in its SmartGuard manufacturing process. This process involves several stages, including strand selection, resin saturation, zinc borate treatment, and multi-layer coating. The selected wood strands are carefully chosen for their strength and stability. They are then saturated with a specially formulated resin that provides water resistance and structural integrity. Zinc borate, a natural mineral, is added to the mixture to protect against fungal decay and termite damage. Finally, the siding is coated with multiple layers of primer and sealer to further enhance its weather resistance and provide a smooth, paintable surface.

Types of SmartSide Siding

SmartSide siding comes in a variety of styles and profiles to suit different architectural designs and homeowner preferences. Here’s a look at some of the most popular types:

Lap Siding: The most common type of SmartSide siding, lap siding features horizontal planks that overlap each other, creating a classic and timeless look. It’s available in various widths and textures, including smooth and woodgrain finishes.
Panel Siding: Panel siding consists of large sheets that are installed vertically or horizontally, offering a modern and streamlined appearance. It’s a popular choice for contemporary homes and commercial buildings.
Shingle Siding: Shingle siding mimics the look of traditional cedar shingles, adding a touch of rustic charm to any home. It’s available in different shingle shapes and sizes, including straight-edge and staggered-edge designs.
Trim and Fascia: In addition to siding panels, SmartSide also offers a range of trim and fascia products to complement the siding and provide a finished look. These include corner boards, window and door trim, and fascia boards.
Reversible Trim: SmartSide reversible trim provides two different looks on one board. One side typically has a smooth finish and the other a woodgrain finish, providing flexibility in design.

Benefits of SmartSide Siding

SmartSide siding offers a compelling combination of benefits that make it an attractive option for homeowners and builders alike. Here are some of the key advantages:

Durability: SmartSide siding is engineered to withstand the elements, including rain, snow, wind, and sun. Its resistance to rot, decay, and termite infestation ensures long-lasting performance and reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Aesthetic Appeal: SmartSide siding replicates the look of natural wood, providing a warm and inviting aesthetic that enhances the curb appeal of any home. Its smooth and consistent surface also provides an excellent base for paint, allowing homeowners to customize the color to their liking.
Affordability: Compared to traditional wood siding, SmartSide siding is generally more affordable, both in terms of material costs and installation expenses. This makes it a budget-friendly option for homeowners looking to upgrade their siding without breaking the bank.
Ease of Installation: SmartSide siding is lightweight and easy to work with, making it a popular choice for contractors. It can be cut, nailed, and screwed using standard woodworking tools, simplifying the installation process and reducing labor costs.
Low Maintenance: Unlike traditional wood siding, SmartSide siding requires minimal maintenance. It does not need to be sealed or stained regularly, and it can be easily cleaned with soap and water.
Warranty: LP offers a limited warranty on SmartSide siding, providing homeowners with peace of mind and assurance of the product’s quality and performance. The warranty typically covers defects in materials and workmanship, as well as protection against rot, decay, and termite damage. Always check the specific warranty details for your product.
Impact Resistance: SmartSide is designed to resist impacts better than some other siding types. This is especially useful in areas prone to hail or where kids might be playing near the house.
Workability: SmartSide is easier to cut and install than fiber cement, which can be brittle. It’s also lighter, making it less strenuous to handle.

Potential Drawbacks of SmartSide Siding

While SmartSide siding offers numerous benefits, it’s important to be aware of its potential drawbacks before making a decision. Here are some factors to consider:

Vulnerability to Moisture if Improperly Installed: While SmartSide is designed to be water-resistant, it’s crucial to ensure proper installation to prevent moisture penetration. Improperly sealed joints or damaged edges can allow water to seep into the siding, leading to swelling, warping, and eventual decay.
Requires Proper Painting and Sealing: Although SmartSide comes pre-primed, it’s essential to apply a high-quality exterior paint or stain to protect it from the elements and enhance its longevity. Regular maintenance, including touch-up painting and re-sealing, may be necessary to prevent moisture damage and maintain its aesthetic appeal.
May Not Be Suitable for All Climates: In extremely wet or humid climates, SmartSide siding may be more susceptible to moisture damage compared to other siding options, such as fiber cement or vinyl. It’s important to consider the local climate and environmental conditions before choosing SmartSide siding.
Susceptibility to Damage from Extreme Impacts: While SmartSide is more impact-resistant than some other siding materials, it can still be damaged by extreme impacts, such as from large hailstones or falling tree limbs.
Can Be More Expensive Than Vinyl Siding: While often more affordable than real wood or fiber cement, SmartSide siding can be more expensive than vinyl siding.
Requires Careful Handling During Installation: Because it’s an engineered wood product, SmartSide can be susceptible to damage if mishandled during installation. It’s important to follow manufacturer instructions closely.

SmartSide Siding Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide

Proper installation is crucial to ensure the long-lasting performance and aesthetic appeal of SmartSide siding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the installation process:

Step 1: Preparation

Before starting the installation, gather the necessary tools and materials, including: SmartSide siding panels, nails or screws, caulk, flashing, measuring tape, saw, hammer or nail gun, level, and safety glasses. Also, inspect the wall sheathing for any damage or rot and repair it as needed. Remove any existing siding, trim, and nails from the wall.

Step 2: Flashing Installation

Install flashing around windows, doors, and other openings to prevent water from penetrating behind the siding. Overlap the flashing at least 2 inches and seal it with caulk. This is a critical step in preventing water damage.

Step 3: Starter Strip Installation

Install a starter strip along the bottom of the wall to provide a level base for the first course of siding. The starter strip should be positioned so that the bottom edge of the first siding panel aligns with the bottom of the wall. Make sure it’s level and securely fastened.

Step 4: Siding Installation

Begin installing the siding panels, starting with the bottom course. Overlap each panel according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically by 1 to 1.5 inches. Use nails or screws to fasten the panels to the wall studs, spacing them 6 to 8 inches apart. Ensure that the nails or screws penetrate the studs deeply enough to provide a secure hold.

Step 5: Cutting and Fitting

Cut the siding panels as needed to fit around windows, doors, and corners. Use a fine-tooth saw to ensure clean cuts and prevent splintering. When fitting the panels, leave a small gap (approximately 1/8 inch) between the siding and the trim to allow for expansion and contraction.

Step 6: Corner Trim Installation

Install corner trim at the corners of the house to cover the exposed edges of the siding. Use nails or screws to fasten the corner trim to the wall studs, ensuring that it is plumb and aligned properly.

Step 7: Caulking

Apply caulk to all seams, joints, and gaps around windows, doors, and corners to create a watertight seal. Use a high-quality exterior caulk that is specifically designed for use with siding. Smooth the caulk with a wet finger or a caulking tool to create a neat and professional finish.

Step 8: Painting

Apply a coat of high-quality exterior paint or stain to the siding to protect it from the elements and enhance its aesthetic appeal. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times. It is generally recommended to apply two coats of paint for optimal protection and durability.

Important Installation Considerations:

Acclimation: Allow SmartSide siding to acclimate to the local climate for several days before installation. This helps to prevent warping or shrinkage after installation.
Proper Fasteners: Use only approved nails or screws for installing SmartSide siding. Using the wrong fasteners can damage the siding or reduce its holding power.
Gaps for Expansion: Leave small gaps between siding panels and trim to allow for expansion and contraction. This helps to prevent buckling or cracking.
Following Manufacturer Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. Failure to do so can void the warranty.
Professional Installation: Consider hiring a professional contractor to install SmartSide siding. A professional installer will have the experience and expertise to ensure that the siding is installed correctly and according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

SmartSide Siding Maintenance Tips

Proper maintenance is essential to prolong the life of your SmartSide siding and keep it looking its best. Here are some tips to help you maintain your siding:

Regular Cleaning: Clean your SmartSide siding at least once a year with soap and water to remove dirt, mildew, and other debris. Use a soft brush or sponge to avoid damaging the siding. A pressure washer can be used, but use a low-pressure setting and avoid spraying directly at seams or edges.
Inspect for Damage: Inspect your siding regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or rot. Repair any damage promptly to prevent further deterioration.
Touch-Up Painting: Touch up any areas where the paint is peeling or fading to maintain the siding’s aesthetic appeal and protect it from the elements.
Re-Caulking: Re-caulk any seams or joints where the caulk is cracked or missing to prevent water penetration.
Trim Vegetation: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed back away from the siding to prevent moisture buildup and damage.
Gutter Maintenance: Ensure that your gutters are clean and functioning properly to prevent water from overflowing and damaging the siding.
Address Issues Promptly: Address any issues, like damage from impacts or weather, promptly to avoid small problems becoming major ones.

SmartSide Siding vs. Other Siding Options

SmartSide siding is just one of many siding options available in the market. Here’s a comparison of SmartSide siding with some of its most common competitors:

SmartSide vs. Vinyl Siding

Appearance: SmartSide siding offers a more natural and wood-like appearance compared to vinyl siding, which can sometimes look artificial.
Durability: SmartSide siding is generally more durable than vinyl siding, especially in terms of impact resistance.
Maintenance: Both SmartSide and vinyl siding require minimal maintenance, but vinyl siding is generally easier to clean.
Cost: Vinyl siding is typically less expensive than SmartSide siding.
Environmental Impact: SmartSide, being made from wood, is a renewable resource. Vinyl is made from PVC, which is not.

SmartSide vs. Fiber Cement Siding

Appearance: Both SmartSide and fiber cement siding can mimic the look of natural wood, but fiber cement siding often has a more consistent and uniform appearance.
Durability: Fiber cement siding is generally more durable than SmartSide siding, especially in terms of fire resistance and resistance to extreme weather conditions.
Maintenance: Both SmartSide and fiber cement siding require minimal maintenance.
Cost: Fiber cement siding is typically more expensive than SmartSide siding.
Installation: SmartSide is lighter and easier to work with than fiber cement, which can be heavy and brittle.

SmartSide vs. Natural Wood Siding

Appearance: SmartSide siding replicates the look of natural wood, but natural wood siding offers a unique grain pattern and character.
Durability: SmartSide siding is more resistant to rot, decay, and termite infestation than natural wood siding.
Maintenance: SmartSide siding requires less maintenance than natural wood siding, which needs to be sealed or stained regularly.
Cost: SmartSide siding is typically less expensive than natural wood siding.

Cost of SmartSide Siding

The cost of SmartSide siding can vary depending on several factors, including the type of siding, the size of the project, the complexity of the installation, and the location. Here’s a general overview of the cost considerations:

Material Costs: The material costs for SmartSide siding typically range from $3 to $7 per square foot, depending on the type of siding and the finish.
Installation Costs: The installation costs for SmartSide siding can range from $2 to $5 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the project and the labor rates in your area.
Total Costs: The total costs for SmartSide siding, including materials and installation, can range from $5 to $12 per square foot.

Factors Affecting Cost:

Type of Siding: Lap siding is generally less expensive than shingle siding or panel siding.
Complexity of Installation: Projects with intricate designs or difficult access can increase installation costs.
Location: Labor rates and material costs can vary depending on your location.
Contractor Fees: Different contractors may charge different rates for installation. Get multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair price.

Finding a Qualified SmartSide Siding Installer

Choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the right siding. A qualified installer will have the experience and expertise to ensure that your SmartSide siding is installed correctly and according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Here are some tips for finding a qualified SmartSide siding installer:

Get Referrals: Ask friends, family, and neighbors for referrals to qualified siding installers.
Check Online Reviews: Read online reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the installer’s reputation and quality of work.
Verify Licensing and Insurance: Make sure the installer is properly licensed and insured to protect yourself from liability in case of accidents or damage.
Ask for References: Ask the installer for references from previous clients and contact them to inquire about their experience.
Get Multiple Quotes: Get quotes from multiple installers to compare prices and services.
Check for Certifications: Some installers may have certifications from LP or other industry organizations, which can indicate a higher level of expertise.
Review the Contract Carefully: Before signing a contract, review it carefully to ensure that it includes all the details of the project, including the scope of work, the materials to be used, the payment schedule, and the warranty.

Conclusion

SmartSide siding offers a compelling combination of beauty, durability, affordability, and ease of installation, making it a popular choice for homeowners and builders alike. While it’s essential to be aware of its potential drawbacks and ensure proper installation and maintenance, SmartSide siding can provide a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing exterior for your home. By carefully considering your needs, budget, and local climate, you can determine whether SmartSide siding is the right choice for your project. Remember to research thoroughly, compare options, and choose a qualified installer to ensure the best possible results.