The top two engineered lap siding brands are the defending champion HardiePlank fiber cement and the up-and-coming contender LP SmartSide engineered wood siding.
This guide covers the HardiePlank vs. LP SmartSide comparison from all angles that matter to a homeowner – Looks, durability, cost of materials and installation, and more. We’ll uncover the differences between the two to help you decide which one fits your project requirements better.
Cost
Expect to pay between $9.50 and $15.50 per square foot to install LP SmartSide siding. For HardiePlank fiber cement siding, your costs will between $10.50 and $17.50 per square foot installed.
Note: LP’s SmartSide relative cost advantage is due to slightly lower material and installation costs thanks to its lighter weight.
Did you know? In 2024, the cost of both, engineered wood and fiber cement siding has fallen slightly compared to prior year, in spite of the ongoing inflation.
The possible cost range is broad, however, based on factors spelled out below. This table breaks down costs for these two leading siding alternatives to natural wood.
| HardiePlank | LP SmartSide | |
| Material Cost per sq.ft. | $2.50 – $5.50 | $2.50 – $4.50 |
| Installation Cost per sq.ft. | $8.00 – $12.50 | $7.00 – $11.50 |
| Total Cost Range per sq.ft. | $10.50 – $17.50 | $9.50 – $16.50 |
| Average Cost per sq.ft. | $11.50 – $15.50 | $10.50 – $14.50 |
| Cost to Value Recouped | 69% – 86% | 70% – 87% |
As you can see in the table above, these are comparably priced materials, so unless you’re watching pennies very closely, this probably won’t be the deciding factor.
