Master Guide To LP SmartSide Installation: Techniques, Benefits, And Professional Standards
LP SmartSide has revolutionized the residential construction industry by offering an engineered wood siding solution that combines the aesthetic beauty of traditional wood with the advanced durability of modern technology. Unlike standard wood siding, which is susceptible to rot, fungal decay, and termite damage, SmartSide is treated with a proprietary SmartGuard process. This involves treating every strand of wood with zinc borate, resins, and waxes to ensure the material can withstand the harshest environmental conditions. For homeowners and contractors alike, understanding the nuances of a proper installation is the difference between a siding system that lasts fifty years and one that fails prematurely.
The popularity of LP SmartSide stems from its ease of use and superior impact resistance. It is significantly lighter than fiber cement, which reduces labor fatigue and allows for faster installation times. Furthermore, because it is an engineered wood product, it can be worked with standard woodworking tools, eliminating the need for specialized diamond-tipped blades or expensive dust collection systems required for silica-based products. However, because it is a wood-based product, strict adherence to moisture management and expansion gap protocols is non-negotiable to maintain the manufacturer's warranty.
Investing in SmartSide installation is not just an aesthetic choice; it is a structural upgrade for the building envelope. The product comes in various profiles, including lap siding, shakes, and panel siding, allowing for diverse architectural expressions. When installed correctly, it provides a seamless, high-end look that increases curb appeal and resale value. This guide provides an exhaustive look at the technical specifications, the installation workflow, and the long-term maintenance required to ensure your exterior cladding remains pristine for decades.
Technical Specifications and Material Comparison
Before diving into the physical installation, it is crucial to understand what makes LP SmartSide unique. The SmartGuard process is the backbone of the product's performance. During manufacturing, the wood strands are coated with a blend of water-resistant waxes and industrial-grade resins. Zinc borate is then distributed throughout the substrate to provide a comprehensive defense against termites and fungal decay. This treatment isn't just on the surface; it is integrated into the core of the material, which is why LP can offer a 5/50-year limited warranty that is among the best in the industry.
When comparing SmartSide to its primary competitor, fiber cement, several key differences emerge. Fiber cement is a heavy, brittle material that requires two-person handling for long planks and generates hazardous crystalline silica dust when cut. In contrast, SmartSide is flexible and resilient, making it much less likely to crack or break during transport and installation. From a performance standpoint, SmartSide often outperforms fiber cement in impact testing, showing greater resistance to hail damage and stray baseballs.
The following table provides a detailed comparison of LP SmartSide against traditional wood and fiber cement to help you understand the positioning of this material in the current market.
| Feature | LP SmartSide (Engineered Wood) | Fiber Cement (HardieBoard) | Traditional Cedar Siding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material Composition | Wood strands with zinc borate & resins | Cellulose fiber, sand, and cement | Natural Western Red Cedar |
| Weight | Lightweight (Easy for 1 person) | Heavy (Requires 2 people) | Medium |
| Impact Resistance | Very High (Resists hail/impact) | Moderate (Can crack or chip) | High (But prone to denting) |
| Installation Tooling | Standard woodworking tools | Specialized diamond blades | Standard woodworking tools |
| Moisture Resistance | High (When edges are sealed) | Excellent (Inert material) | Moderate (Prone to rot) |
| Standard Lengths | 16-foot planks (Fewer seams) | 12-foot planks (More seams) | Variable lengths |
| Eco-Friendliness | SFI Certified sustainable wood | High energy manufacturing process | Renewable but expensive |
Essential Pre-Installation and Job Site Preparation
Successful SmartSide installation begins long before the first nail is driven. The substrate must be perfectly prepared to ensure a flat, moisture-resistant surface. This involves the application of a high-quality house wrap or weather-resistive barrier (WRB). The WRB must be integrated with window and door flashings to create a "shingle-lap" effect, ensuring that any moisture that finds its way behind the siding is directed down and out away from the structure. Failure to manage the drainage plane is the leading cause of structural rot in modern homes.
Tool selection is equally important. You will need a high-quality miter saw or circular saw with a standard carbide-tipped blade. Unlike fiber cement, you do not need to worry about silica dust, but wearing a mask is still recommended to avoid inhaling fine wood particles. For fastening, LP recommends using hot-dipped galvanized nails or stainless steel nails with a minimum shank diameter of 0.113 inches. It is critical to use nails with a full round head; clipped head nails or staples do not provide the necessary holding power to resist wind uplift forces.
Finally, consider the climate and storage. LP SmartSide should be stored off the ground on a flat surface and kept dry under a waterproof cover. If the material becomes saturated before installation, it may shrink slightly after it is nailed to the wall, leading to wider gaps than intended. Proper acclimation to the local humidity levels ensures that the expansion and contraction cycles of the engineered wood are predictable and manageable once the siding is fastened.
Smartside Siding Calculator at George Redden blog
Step-by-Step Guide to Professional Installation
1. Layout and Starter Strip
Begin by establishing a level base line around the entire perimeter of the structure. Use a laser level or a chalk line to ensure the first course is perfectly horizontal. Install a starter strip—this can be a dedicated metal starter or a strip of SmartSide trim—to provide the necessary angle for the first course of lap siding. Ensure the siding hangs at least 6 inches above the finished grade and at least 2 inches above permanent surfaces like decks or rooflines to prevent "wicking" of ground moisture.
2. Cutting and Sealing Edges
Measurement is key. When cutting planks to length, always allow for a 3/16-inch expansion gap at all trim locations (corners, windows, and doors). This gap allows the wood-based product to expand during periods of high humidity without buckling. Crucially, every field-cut edge must be primed and painted with a high-quality 100% acrylic latex paint before installation. This seals the "open" wood fibers and prevents moisture from entering the board, which is the most important step for maintaining the warranty.
3. Fastening and Nailing Patterns
When nailing the lap siding, fasteners should be placed 3/4 inch from the top edge of the board. This is known as "blind nailing," as the subsequent course will cover the nail heads. Nails should be spaced no more than 16 inches on center, driven directly into the wall studs. Ensure the nail head is flush with the surface; over-driving the nail can crush the wood fibers and create a point for moisture intrusion. If a nail is over-driven, it must be sealed with exterior-grade caulk and a new nail must be placed nearby.
4. Joint Treatment and Flashing
Where two planks meet in a horizontal run, you have two options: using joint covers or utilizing "butt joints." For the most professional finish, LP recommends using a joint flasher (a small piece of metal or UV-resistant plastic) behind every butt joint. This ensures that water passing through the seam is directed back onto the face of the course below. Do not caulk the butt joints between planks; instead, leave a small gap as specified by the manufacturer and rely on the flashing behind the joint for water management.
Finishing, Painting, and Long-Term Maintenance
The aesthetic success of a SmartSide installation depends heavily on the quality of the finish. While LP offers "ExpertFinish" pre-painted options, many installers use the primed-only version. Once the siding is installed, it must be painted within 180 days. Use a high-quality, 100% acrylic latex paint designed for exterior use. Avoid using stain, oil-based paints, or shake/shingle paints, as these do not provide the necessary flexibility and breathability required for engineered wood.
Maintenance is relatively simple but essential. Homeowners should inspect their siding annually for any signs of damage or wear in the paint film. Pay close attention to the caulking around windows, doors, and corner boards. Over time, caulk can dry out and crack; replacing it promptly prevents moisture from reaching the vulnerable cut edges of the siding. Additionally, ensure that gutters are kept clean so that water does not overflow and drench the siding excessively, and keep vegetation trimmed back at least 12 inches to allow for proper airflow.
Cleaning the siding should be done with a soft brush and a mild detergent solution. Never use a pressure washer on LP SmartSide, as the high-pressure stream can force water behind the planks, damage the wood fibers, or strip the paint. A simple garden hose is sufficient for rinsing away dirt and debris. By following these maintenance steps, the siding will retain its "like-new" appearance and structural integrity for the duration of its 50-year lifespan.
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
- Insufficient Gapping: Failing to leave the 3/16-inch expansion gap at trim intersections. Without this space, the siding will push against the trim when it expands, causing the planks to buckle or "bubble" outward.
- Improper Clearance: Installing the siding too close to the ground or rooflines. Moisture "wicking" from snow or standing water can cause the bottom edges to swell and delaminate over time.
- Neglecting Cut Edges: Failing to prime and paint the edges of the boards that were cut on-site. This is the #1 cause of warranty claim denials and localized rot.
- Over-driving Nails: Using a pneumatic nailer set to a pressure that is too high. This breaks the factory-applied primer seal and creates a pocket where water can sit and soak into the wood core.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does LP SmartSide need to be caulked at the joints?
No, you should not caulk the butt joints where two pieces of lap siding meet in a continuous row. This can trap moisture and looks unsightly as the boards expand and contract. Instead, use a joint flasher behind the seam. You should, however, caulk the 3/16-inch gap where the siding meets vertical trim boards.
Can I install LP SmartSide over existing siding?
It is not recommended. For the best results and to ensure the manufacturer's warranty remains valid, the old siding should be removed. This allows you to inspect the sheathing for rot, install a fresh weather-resistive barrier, and ensure the new siding is nailed directly into the structural studs.
How does the cost of SmartSide compare to vinyl or fiber cement?
LP SmartSide is generally more expensive than standard vinyl but is often comparable to or slightly cheaper than fiber cement when labor is factored in. Because it installs faster and requires fewer specialized tools, the overall "on-the-wall" cost is very competitive for a premium product.
Is LP SmartSide termite proof?
The SmartGuard process includes zinc borate, which is a naturally occurring mineral that is toxic to termites and inhibits fungal growth. While no wood product is 100% "proof," SmartSide is highly resistant and has passed rigorous testing in high-termite zones like Hawaii.
What kind of paint should I use?
You must use a high-quality 100% acrylic latex paint. These paints remain flexible, allowing the wood to breathe while providing a durable shield against UV rays and moisture. Do not use oil-based paints, as they can become brittle and crack over time.
Protect Your Investment with Professional Installation
LP SmartSide is an exceptional product that offers the warmth of wood with the resilience of modern engineering. However, its performance is entirely dependent on the quality of the installation. By following the strict guidelines regarding moisture management, expansion gaps, and edge sealing, you can ensure that your home remains protected and beautiful for decades to come. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or hiring a contractor, never compromise on the technical requirements that make this siding a world-class cladding solution.
If you are ready to transform your home’s exterior with a product that stands the test of time, contact a certified LP BuildSmart Preferred Contractor today. A professional installation ensures your 50-year warranty is fully protected and your home remains the pride of the neighborhood.
