What Is LP SmartSide Siding? A Homeowner-Friendly Guide

If you’re researching new siding for your home, you’ve probably come across the name LP SmartSide. It’s one of the most popular siding products in Michigan right now, especially for homeowners who want something that looks sharp, holds up against weather, and doesn't break the bank.

So what exactly is LP SmartSide?

Let’s break it down in simple terms, without the jargon.

So, What Exactly Is LP SmartSide?

LP SmartSide is an engineered wood siding designed to give you the warmth and appearance of wood without all the maintenance that real wood normally needs. LP takes wood strands, blends them with waxes and resins, adds a protective zinc-borate treatment, and presses everything together into strong, durable boards.

The result is a clean, sharp board that works well on everything from ranch homes in Livonia to modern builds in Canton to historic homes in Grosse Pointe.

How LP SmartSide Is Made

1. Start with the logs

LP uses sustainable fast growing aspen trees. The logs are cut into small wood strands about the size of a business card.

2. Treat every strand (LP's SmartGuard Process)

Each strand is coated with:

• waxes that repel moisture

• resins that add strength

• zinc borate for protection against rot, fungus, and termites

  
  

3. Layer the strands

The treated strands are arranged in several layers to build a thick, dense mat. The layering adds strength and stability.

4. Press the mat under extreme force

The mat is pressed together at roughly 2,200 psi while being heated to about 425 degrees. This combination locks everything together and creates a strong, dimensionally stable board.

5. Add the protective overlay

A resin saturated overlay is added on top. This gives the siding a clean, consistent exterior surface.

6. Cut the boards into siding profiles

After pressing, the large sheet is cut into the final products, including:

• lap siding

• panel siding

• shakes

• soffit

• trim boards

  
  

7. Prime or factory finish

Each piece is either:

• primed and ready for paint, or

• finished in a factory applied color

  
  

The Result: A real wood based siding that is stronger, more stable, and more weather resistant than traditional wood materials. It holds up well in Michigan’s freeze and thaw cycles and looks great on almost any home style.

Why Michigan Homeowners Choose It

Michigan is hard on siding. We deal with freeze and thaw cycles, humidity, moisture from the lakes, strong wind, and the occasional hailstorm. LP SmartSide handles those conditions very well because it is rigid enough to stay straight yet flexible enough to avoid cracking in the cold.

Most homeowners choose it because it looks premium without being as expensive as fiber cement. The lines are crisp, the texture is subtle, and it works on almost any style of home.

ExpertFinish Compared to Primed

You will see two main types of LP SmartSide.

ExpertFinish

This comes with a factory applied color. The finish is consistent and you do not need to paint it after installation. It is the easiest way to get a flawless finished look.

Primed

This version comes pre primed and ready for paint. It is ideal if you want a very specific color or you are matching an existing color scheme.

Both options work well. The choice comes down to convenience versus total color control.

Styles That Are Available

LP SmartSide gives you a lot of design flexibility. You can choose from:

• horizontal lap siding

• vertical board and batten

• shake accents

• smooth or cedar textures

• a full range of trim sizes

You can create a modern look, a classic farmhouse look, or something more custom depending on what fits the home.

Is LP SmartSide a Good Fit for Your Home

If you want siding that performs in Michigan weather, looks clean and modern, and stays within a reasonable budget, LP SmartSide is a strong option. We install it across Oakland, Wayne, and Washtenaw counties and it consistently performs well on both newer homes and older homes that need a durable upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does LP SmartSide need to be painted?

• Yes. ExpertFinish comes prefinished. Primed boards can be painted with high-quality exterior paint.

How long does LP SmartSide last in Michigan?

• With proper installation, it can last 40 to 50 years or more.

Is engineered wood siding waterproof?

• It is water resistant, but still requires proper flashing and house wrap.

Will LP SmartSide warp?

• Not if installed correctly with proper spacing and fastening.

Can LP be installed in winter?

• Yes. It performs better than vinyl or fiber cement in cold weather installation.

Is it good for historic homes?

• Yes. It mimics wood grain better than fiber cement or vinyl.

See Real LP SmartSide Projects Near You

We can show you real LP SmartSide projects in your area, walk through color options, compare different styles, and help you visualize the design before anything is ordered. If you want a durable, attractive siding option that fits Michigan homes, LP SmartSide is worth a serious look. Reach out to us today and we will walk you through the best options for your home. Contact Us HERE!

Lake Effect Exteriors Proudly serving Metro Detroit, Ann Arbor, and beyond.