If you’ve ever stood outside your home, looked up at the siding, and thought, “It’s time for an upgrade,” you’re not alone. Homeowners ask me all the time about exterior siding choices — especially when deciding between two of today’s top materials: LP SmartSide and vinyl siding.
This conversation usually begins during a homeowner’s Siding Remodeling consultation — where cost, durability, and curb appeal all come into play.
And more often than not, the conversation starts with the same question:
“Which one costs more — LP Smart Siding or vinyl?”
It sounds simple… but the real answer has layers.
A Homeowner Story: The Johnson Family’s Siding Dilemma
A few years back, I visited the Johnsons — a young family renovating their 1980s home. Their siding was original, faded vinyl with a few cracked panels. After one rough winter, they knew it was time for something better.
Walking the property, they asked:
“Kevin, what’s the cost difference between LP Smart Siding and vinyl? Is the upgrade worth it?”
So I broke down the real story — the same one you’ll see here.
1. Upfront Material Cost: Vinyl Wins… at First
Vinyl Siding Cost
💲 $4–$7 per sq. ft. installed
Lightweight
Easy to handle
Fast installation
Very budget-friendly
This is why vinyl is so popular — it’s the most affordable entry point for Exteriors Remodeling.
LP SmartSide Cost
💲 $6–$10 per sq. ft. installed
Engineered wood composite
Heavier and stronger
Requires more craftsmanship
Higher material cost
In the Johnsons’ case, vinyl would have been about 30% cheaper upfront.
👉 Simple takeaway:
Vinyl is cheaper on day one. LP SmartSide is an investment.
But the story doesn’t stop here.
2. Appearance and Curb Appeal: LP Smart Siding Takes the Lead
When we stepped back and looked at their home, it was obvious:
Vinyl would improve the exterior.
LP SmartSide would transform it.
Vinyl Look
Clean, simple
Lots of color options
Less texture and depth
LP Smart Siding Look
Deep, realistic wood-grain textures
Thicker boards and richer shadow lines
More upscale, custom appearance
Mrs. Johnson held both samples and instantly said:
“This feels like a real upgrade.”
👉 Design takeaway:
LP SmartSide doesn’t just change the siding — it changes the home’s presence.
3. Durability: The Cost You Pay Later
Long-term durability is a huge part of overall cost.
Vinyl Durability
Resistant to rot
Can warp in heat
Can crack in cold
Prone to fading
Impact damage (hail, baseballs, debris)
LP Smart Siding Durability
Engineered with resins, waxes, and zinc borate for strength.
Resistant to:
Moisture
Impact
Pests
Rot
Perfect for climates with both heat and freezing temps.
👉 Longevity takeaway:
LP SmartSide costs more upfront, but often far less over time.
Check Our Recent Projects
4. Maintenance: What You’re Really Signing Up For
Vinyl Maintenance
Very low
No painting
Occasional washing
Replacement required if panels crack
LP Smart Siding Maintenance
Requires paint every 10–15 years
Highly stable
Easy to repair section by section
Homeowners choosing LP SmartSide often pair it with Windows & Doors Replacement to create a tighter, more energy-efficient envelope.
👉 Maintenance takeaway:
Zero maintenance? Vinyl wins.
Long-term beauty? LP wins.
5. Energy Efficiency: The Hidden Savings
Vinyl
Optional insulated versions
Helps reduce drafts
LP SmartSide
Thicker, denser panels
Adds noticeable thermal stability
Helps reduce heating/cooling costs
👉 Energy takeaway:
LP SmartSide often performs better — especially in four-season climates.
6. Resale Value: LP Smart Siding Pays You Back
A year after completing their project, the Johnsons called me with great news:
Their home appraisal had jumped more than expected.
Why?
Vinyl = standard
LP SmartSide = premium upgrade
Buyers notice when a home has LP siding — the texture, weight, and curb appeal add real perceived value.
👉 Value takeaway:
If resale matters, LP SmartSide is the clear winner.
7. The Real Cost Story: Which Should You Choose?
Choose Vinyl If You Want:
✔ Lowest upfront cost
✔ Fastest installation
✔ No painting
✔ Clean, simple, practical exterior
Great for rentals, starter homes, or temporary living situations.
Choose LP Smart Siding If You Want:
✔ High-end, wood-like appearance
✔ Long-term durability
✔ Better extreme-climate performance
✔ Higher resale value
✔ A “forever home” solution
For more details on engineered materials, many homeowners compare LP to other options like The Ultimate Guide to James Hardie Siding before choosing.
And the Johnsons?
They chose LP Smart Siding — and years later, they’re still thrilled with their decision.
Final Thoughts
The LP Smart Siding vs vinyl cost debate isn’t just about dollars — it’s about what you want your home to look like, feel like, and be worth in the long run.
Vinyl saves money upfront.
LP SmartSide saves money over time — and elevates your home’s style and value.
To see a real example of premium siding done right, explore our project:
James Hardie Siding Project in Oakland, CA.
At America’s Dream HomeWorks, we help homeowners compare materials honestly, run real numbers, and choose siding that matches both design goals and budget.
✨ A home’s exterior shouldn’t just protect you — it should reflect your story.
