Choosing the right siding for your home is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when it comes to exterior home renovations services. With the weather in Chattanooga being a mix of hot, humid summers and chilly, damp winters, your siding needs to be tough, attractive, and long-lasting. Two top contenders for homeowners in the area are Hardie Board and LP SmartSide. But which one is better for your Chattanooga home?
Let’s take a closer look.
Why Siding Choice Matters in Chattanooga
Chattanooga’s weather keeps everyone on their toes. We see humidity, unexpected rain, hot summers, and the occasional winter frost. All these conditions add up, making it important to choose siding that lasts. The right exterior siding Chattanooga TN homeowners select should resist moisture, handle temperature swings, and require minimal fuss.
That’s where Hardie Board and LP SmartSide step into the spotlight.
Quick Overview
Hardie Board: A fiber cement siding engineered for long-term durability and resistance to fire, pests, and weather.
LP SmartSide: An engineered wood composite siding known for its lighter weight, easy installation, and natural look.
Both are available through trusted siding contractors Chattanooga TN and add value to your home, but there are a few differences to consider.
The Lowdown on Hardie Board
Pros:
- Durability: Made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, it resists warping, cracking, and pests.
- Fire Resistant: Hardie Board is non-combustible, adding an extra layer of protection for your home.
- Moisture Resistance: Its fiber cement core keeps mold and mildew at bay—perfect for Tennessee’s humid days.
- Low Maintenance: Holds paint well and doesn’t require frequent repainting.
- Curb Appeal: Comes in a range of styles and colors to match any home.
Cons:
- Weight: Heavier than LP SmartSide, which can drive up installation costs.
- Installation: Needs experienced residential siding contractors for proper fitting and weather-sealing.
- Initial Cost: More expensive upfront, though it pays off through durability.
What Sets LP SmartSide Apart
Pros:
- Lightweight: Easier and faster to install due to its engineered wood core.
- Natural Look: Mimics traditional wood siding while offering improved durability.
- Impact Resistant: Stands up better to hail, baseballs, and general wear and tear.
- Cost: Typically less expensive to purchase and install.
- Warranty: Backed by an industry-leading warranty for peace of mind.
Cons:
- Maintenance: Requires periodic painting or staining to withstand the elements.
- Moisture Sensitivity: Though treated for rot and insect resistance, it may suffer moisture damage over time if not well sealed.
- Fire Resistance: Less fire-resistant than Hardie Board.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Hardie Board | LP SmartSide |
| Material | Fiber cement | Engineered wood |
| Moisture Resistance | Excellent | Good |
| Fire Resistance | High | Moderate |
| Impact Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Maintenance | Low | Moderate |
| Appearance | Many styles/colors | Natural wood look |
| Cost | Higher up-front | More budget-friendly |
| Installation | Requires pros | Faster/easier |
What Do the Stats Say?
According to a recent Remodeling Magazine Cost vs. Value report, fiber cement siding (like Hardie Board) recoups about 88% of its cost in home value—one of the highest returns for exterior home renovations services in the Southeast. LP SmartSide isn’t far behind, giving Chattanooga homeowners a solid return, especially when expertly installed and maintained.
What Local Homeowners Should Consider
Before reaching out to siding companies Chattanooga or a Chattanooga roofing company, ask yourself:
- Is my area prone to heavy storms or high humidity?
- Do I want the look of classic wood or something more modern?
- Is low maintenance a must, or am I okay with periodic upkeep?
- What’s my overall budget, factoring in professional installation?
- Should I combine siding upgrades with a roof and siding inspection or look into exterior home improvement services for a total refresh?
When to Pair Siding Upgrades With Other Exterior Services
Many Tennessee Valley homeowners use this opportunity to tackle additional projects. Consider bundling with:
- Roof repair Chattanooga TN
- Gutter installation Chattanooga, or gutter repair Chattanooga TN
- Downspout installation services or installing oversized downspouts
- Decks and patios builders or composite deck builders for a backyard upgrade
- Exterior home repair and painting for a unified look
- Seamless gutters Chattanooga TN for better water control
Bundling jobs can save you money and reduce overall disruption.
Working With Trusted Local Pros
A successful siding project depends on experienced professionals. Whether you’re in Chattanooga, Cleveland, or Dalton, it’s smart to work with local siding contractors Chattanooga TN, vinyl siding contractors in Chattanooga TN, or reputable roofers like a Dalton roofing company or Cleveland roofing company.
A reliable exterior home renovation company will offer much more than siding—think roofing inspection services, gutter cleaning Chattanooga TN, and backyard transformations through trusted back patio builders.
Your Next Step Toward a Stronger, More Beautiful Home
Both Hardie Board and LP SmartSide are excellent options for homes across Chattanooga and North Georgia. Your best choice depends on your preferences, budget, and local weather conditions.
Quick tips for Chattanooga homeowners:
- Choose Hardie Board if you value durability, fire resistance, and minimal upkeep.
- Opt for LP SmartSide if you prefer a natural wood look, faster installation, and lower initial costs.
Want even more value? Ask your contractor about combining siding work with roof repair Chattanooga, new gutters Chattanooga Tennessee, or a fresh coat of paint from skilled exterior home painting companies.
If you’re ready to transform your home’s exterior, contact Tennessee Valley Exteriors. We’re here to help with everything—from roof and siding inspection to full-scale renovations. Explore our complete range of services, including siding, decks, roofing, gutter installation services, and more.
Visit Tennessee Valley Exteriors today and request your free estimate or inspection.
Transform your home’s exterior and enjoy peace of mind for years to come!
