LP SmartSide Installation Guide (9 Steps to Do It Right)

Homeowners researching exterior upgrades often search for the best LP SmartSide installation practices to ensure their siding performs as intended. LP SmartSide is known for durability, impact resistance, and a clean, modern look, making it a popular choice in Crown Point and nearby Indiana communities. Because proper installation is essential for long-term performance, this guide walks through the most important steps, considerations, and techniques professionals use to get the job done right.

This guide covers:

• Key preparation steps before installation
• Proven techniques to protect siding from moisture and weather
• How to create clean lines and seamless transitions
• Mistakes to avoid when working with engineered wood

If you’re planning an exterior upgrade or simply want to understand the process, these steps outline what a correct installation should look like.

Why LP SmartSide Is Growing in Popularity

LP SmartSide has become a preferred siding material for homes in the Midwest thanks to its engineered strength and resistance to common pests. Its lightweight composition makes installation simpler than fiber cement, yet it offers impressive durability against hail and heavy winds. The product’s rise in popularity is also supported by national data, as 11% of new homes in the United States use engineered wood siding according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This shows a growing trend of homeowners choosing materials that balance visual appeal with long-term performance.

In a climate like Crown Point, where freezing winters and humid summers can stress weaker siding, LP SmartSide offers a stable, reliable exterior solution that holds up beautifully over time.

9 Steps to Do LP SmartSide Installation the Right Way

Below is a numbered bulleted list detailing the core steps required to install LP SmartSide properly.

1. Inspect and prepare the wall surface: Ensure the sheathing is flat, solid, and fully fastened before installation.
2. Install proper weather-resistive barriers: Apply house wrap or approved WRB to protect the structure from moisture.
3. Flash all wall openings: Windows, doors, and penetrations require metal or self-adhered flashing to prevent water intrusion.
4. Leave required clearances: Maintain correct gaps above roofing, decks, sidewalks, and soil for proper ventilation.
5. Use correct fasteners: Install corrosion-resistant nails with appropriate length and shank type to secure each panel or lap piece.
6. Nail with proper spacing and depth: Fasteners should sit flush, not countersunk, and follow manufacturer spacing guidelines.
7. Seal joints and edges: Apply approved sealants where needed to strengthen weather protection and improve appearance.
8. Prime and paint cut ends: Any exposed engineered wood must be sealed to prevent moisture absorption.
9. Inspect the completed work: Check all seams, fasteners, and edges to ensure a consistent, high-quality finish.

Tools and Materials Needed for a Smooth Installation

Before beginning the installation, having the right tools and materials ensures a clean, efficient workflow. Professionals rely on:

• Measuring tape: Accurate measurements prevent misaligned cuts.
• Circular saw: Makes clean, consistent cuts in engineered wood siding.
• Nail gun or hammer: Fastens siding securely to the sheathing.
• Sealant: Protects joints and vulnerable edges from moisture.
• Level: Ensures straight lines and even courses across the exterior.

Having everything prepared ahead of time keeps installation moving smoothly and prevents costly mistakes.

Preparing Your Home for LP SmartSide Siding

Preparation is just as important as the installation itself. Before applying the first panel, a clear workspace and proper protective layers are essential.

Remove old or damaged siding

If existing siding is deteriorated, it must be removed to expose a stable surface. This helps ensure that each new LP SmartSide panel sits flat and adheres correctly.

Inspect for moisture or structural issues

Technicians must check for soft spots, rot, or moisture damage behind the old siding. Any structural repairs should be completed before moving forward.

Apply house wrap or WRB

Every home needs a protective barrier to shield the framing from wind-driven rain and humidity. This wrap works beneath the siding to provide long-term moisture protection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Installation

• Installing over uneven surfaces: Uneven sheathing creates visible waves once siding is installed and can shorten product lifespan.
• Improper nailing technique: Nails driven too deep, angled, or incorrectly spaced weaken the siding and may void warranties.
• Neglecting cut-edge sealing: Any exposed engineered wood must be primed and sealed to prevent moisture intrusion.
• Skipping flashing or WRB steps: Missing these elements increases the risk of water entry and long-term structural damage.
• Failing to leave proper clearances: Tight installations against roofing, concrete, or soil can trap moisture and reduce ventilation.

LP SmartSide vs. Other Siding Options

Below is a comparison table outlining how LP SmartSide stacks up against vinyl and fiber cement.

For homes in Crown Point, where storms and temperature swings are common, LP SmartSide often performs better than vinyl and is easier to install than fiber cement.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting LP SmartSide Performance

• Keep vegetation trimmed: Prevent bushes and plants from touching the siding to reduce moisture buildup.
• Inspect caulk and paint periodically: Refreshing paint and sealing gaps preserves appearance and weather protection.
• Clean siding annually: A light wash with mild soap removes buildup and protects the finish.
• Check for shifting soil or drainage issues: Water pooling near the foundation can shorten siding lifespan.
• Monitor for physical damage: Even durable siding can be impacted by lawn equipment or storms, so periodic checks matter.

We’re proud to serve home and business owners in Crown Point, IN, and nearby communities with LP SmartSide installation, exterior remodeling, repairs, and more.

Trust Armour Construction for Expert LP SmartSide Installation

When you want LP SmartSide installed the right way, Armour Construction delivers precision craftsmanship, clear communication, and reliable service from start to finish. Our team understands the details that matter most for engineered wood siding, ensuring your exterior looks great and performs for years to come.

Whether you’re upgrading your home’s curb appeal or preparing for a full siding replacement, we’re here to help with honest recommendations and high-quality workmanship.

Ready to start your project? Contact Armour Construction today for a siding consultation.