LP SmartSide Cost: What to Expect In 2026 (7 Factors)
Puetz Construction | 6 Minute Read
LP SmartSide siding has become a popular choice among homeowners looking for a durable, attractive, and low-maintenance exterior solution. If you’re planning an upgrade or a full replacement in 2026, you may be wondering how much you’ll need to budget. The truth is, LP SmartSide cost can vary depending on several key factors, from the size of your home to the type of trim and installation complexity. For homeowners in Austin and surrounding areas, knowing what to expect helps avoid surprises and allows for better financial planning. You can start exploring options by checking out the range of finishes and details we showcase on our custom siding design page.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What LP SmartSide is and why it’s a strong choice
- The top factors that influence cost in 2026
- How it compares to other siding options
- What to expect before, during, and after installation
Why More Homeowners Are Choosing LP SmartSide
Before diving into numbers, it’s worth understanding why LP SmartSide has gained such a strong reputation. Engineered wood siding combines beauty, strength, and flexibility in ways other products can’t.
- Exceptional Durability: LP SmartSide is treated with proprietary SmartGuard® technology, making it highly resistant to moisture, hail, and termites.
- Curb Appeal: It mimics the look of natural wood while offering a wide range of styles and finishes.
- Impact Resistance: Stronger than fiber cement and vinyl in many third-party tests, it’s built to withstand harsh Midwest weather.
- Lower Maintenance: Thanks to its engineered design, LP SmartSide requires less frequent painting or sealing.
- Sustainability: Made from wood strands and resins sourced from sustainably managed forests, it appeals to environmentally conscious homeowners.
7 Factors That Affect LP SmartSide Cost in 2026
Material pricing is only one piece of the puzzle. The total cost of installing LP SmartSide in 2026 will depend on several project-specific variables. Here are the most important ones to consider:
1. Size and Shape of Your Home
Square footage is the most straightforward cost driver, but the shape of your home also matters.
- Large homes naturally require more material and labor.
- Complex shapes or multi-story layouts increase the amount of cutting, measuring, and staging needed.
- Dormers, gables, and wraparound porches may require special trim or detailing.
2. Siding Style and Finish
LP SmartSide offers several siding profiles, and each comes with different price tags.
- Lap Siding: Most affordable and commonly used.
- Panel Siding: Often used on modern-style homes or garages.
- Shakes and Perfection Shingles: Add texture but increase material and labor costs.
- Vertical Board and Batten: A trendy choice that may cost more due to trim needs.
3. Trim and Accessories
The trim you select significantly affects both the material and installation cost.
- LP SmartSide offers prefinished trim, which costs more but saves on paint and labor.
- Corners, fascia, soffit, and window trim should all be factored in.
- Upgraded accessories like vented soffit or decorative columns can increase your investment.
4. Labor and Installation
Skilled labor is essential for proper siding performance and durability.
- Labor costs can range depending on experience, project complexity, and local demand.
- Homes with old siding may require removal and disposal, adding to the time and cost.
- Installing over uneven surfaces or outdated framing may require repair work.
5. Paint and Finishing Options
LP SmartSide can be purchased prefinished or primed for custom painting.
- Prefinished options cost more upfront but reduce painting time and weather delays.
- Custom paint allows for more color flexibility but introduces additional material and labor costs.
6. Season and Scheduling
In places like Austin and surrounding areas, weather plays a big role in scheduling exterior projects.
- Peak seasons (spring and fall) may come with higher labor rates due to demand.
- Off-season installations could offer discounts but risk weather delays.
- Booking early helps lock in pricing before market fluctuations affect costs.
7. Permit and Site Prep Costs
Although often overlooked, local requirements and site conditions can add to your final bill.
- Some municipalities require permits for full siding replacements.
- Landscaping or fencing may need to be temporarily adjusted to allow access.
- On older homes, expect additional costs for lead paint testing or removing asbestos siding.
Tips for Maximizing Your Investment
Understanding costs is one thing—making sure you get long-term value is another. Here’s how to get the most from your LP SmartSide project.
Hire Certified Installers
LP SmartSide performs best when installed according to manufacturer guidelines. Look for contractors with product-specific training and strong reviews.
Ask About Warranties
LP SmartSide comes with a limited 50-year prorated warranty, but labor warranties vary. Ask if your contractor offers coverage for installation errors or paint failure.
Plan Around Weather
Avoid last-minute scheduling during Minnesota’s storm or freeze seasons. Early planning helps secure a preferred timeline and potentially better pricing.
Choose Colors Wisely
Lighter shades fade more slowly and show less dirt, which can lower maintenance costs over time. If going custom, ask for UV-resistant paint options.
Keep Documentation
Save your material receipts, installation contracts, and warranty information. This will help with resale value and future insurance claims if damage occurs.
LP SmartSide vs. Other Siding Options
Wondering how LP SmartSide compares to vinyl, fiber cement, or engineered stone? Here’s a side-by-side look at cost, value, and performance:
| Siding Type | Estimated Cost per Sq. Ft. (Installed) | Durability | Maintenance | Appearance |
| LP SmartSide | $8 – $14 | Very High | Low | Wood-grain look, multiple finishes |
| Vinyl | $4 – $7 | Moderate | Low | Basic profiles, fewer custom looks |
| Fiber Cement | $10 – $16 | High | Moderate to High | Crisp lines, heavy material |
| Engineered Stone | $20 – $35 | Very High | Low | Luxury finish, heavy weight |
| Natural Wood | $12 – $20+ | Moderate | High | Classic look, frequent upkeep |
LP SmartSide hits a sweet spot: more premium than vinyl but more affordable than many high-end finishes. Its durability and visual options offer long-term returns for the upfront investment.
What to Expect During Installation
If you’ve never replaced siding before, knowing what happens on-site can help you prepare for a smoother project.
Site Prep and Tear-Off
- Crews may remove old siding and inspect the sheathing underneath.
- Any rot or damage found may require repairs before new siding can be applied.
- Property protection measures are set up to shield landscaping, windows, and doors.
Installation
- Weather barrier and flashing are installed first for moisture protection.
- LP SmartSide panels, lap boards, or shakes are placed according to design.
- Trim and accessories are added last, then sealed and painted if needed.
Cleanup and Final Inspection
- Expect leftover materials, nails, and construction debris to be removed.
- A final walkthrough confirms satisfaction and identifies any needed touch-ups.
- Warranty details and maintenance recommendations are usually reviewed before closeout.
Planning for 2026? Start Early for the Best Results
As we move into 2026, LP SmartSide remains one of the most versatile and reliable exterior upgrades for Minnesota homes. Costs can fluctuate due to labor demand, raw material pricing, and economic conditions, so getting a current quote is key. For homeowners in Austin and surrounding areas, upgrading to LP SmartSide means investing in style, performance, and value that lasts for decades.
If you’re considering a siding replacement in the coming year, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Puetz Construction is here to walk you through every step of the process—from product selection to expert installation—so your home’s exterior looks as strong as it performs.
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