LP SmartSide vs. James Hardie: Which Siding Is Better for Spokane Homes?

January 20, 2026

Homeowners in Spokane, WA face unique challenges when choosing siding—hot, dry summers, cold winters, snow, moisture, and wildfire risk. When comparing LP SmartSide vs. James Hardie siding, it’s important to understand how each product performs in the Spokane climate and what that means for long-term maintenance and cost.

Both siding options are popular in Eastern Washington, but their differences become more noticeable over time.

LP SmartSide vs. James Hardie: Side-by-Side Comparison

LP SmartSide vs. James Hardie Siding (Spokane Homeowners)

Feature	James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding	LP SmartSide Engineered Wood Siding
Material	Fiber cement (cement, sand, cellualr fibers)	Engineered wood strands with resins
Fire Resistance	Non-combustable (will not ignite)	Fire-retardant treated, but combustible
Moisture Resistance	Excellent- highly resistant to rot and mold	Good- treated for moisture, but wood-based
Pest & Termite Resistance	Naturally pest and termite-proof	Zinc borate treatment helps deter insects
Impact Resistance	Ridged; may crack on strong impact	Flexible; resists dents and hail
Maintenance	Low maintenace; repair less often	Moderate maintenance; more frequent repainting
Excpected Lifespan	40-50+ years	25-40 years with proper maintenace
Installation Cost	Higher upfront cost	Lower upfront cost
Long-Term Cost	Lower lifespan ownership cost	Can be higher due to maintenance
Appearance	Clean, cosistant finish	Natural cedar-like apearance
Best for Spokane Homes	Fire resistant, durability, low maintenance	Budget friendly, impact resistant

Why James Hardie Performs Well in the Spokane Climate

Spokane experiences temperature swings, snow accumulation, moisture, and increasing wildfire concerns. These conditions make siding durability and fire resistance especially important.

James Hardie siding performs exceptionally well in Spokane’s four-season climate because:

It does not absorb moisture like wood-based products
It resists freeze–thaw cycles common in Eastern Washington
It offers superior fire resistance compared to engineered wood
It requires less upkeep in dry summers and snowy winters
For homeowners planning to stay in their home long-term, James Hardie siding often provides better value and peace of mind.

LP SmartSide in Spokane: When It Makes Sense

LP SmartSide remains a popular choice in Spokane and surrounding areas due to its:

Lower initial cost
Strong impact resistance (helpful during hailstorms)
Natural wood appearance

However, because it is still a wood-based product, Spokane homeowners should expect more frequent maintenance, especially repainting and moisture monitoring, to ensure long-term performance.

Essential Siding Maintenance Tips for Spokane Homeowners >>

Cost Comparison for Spokane Homeowners

When comparing James Hardie vs. LP SmartSide cost in Spokane, labor plays a major role.

LP SmartSide siding in Spokane typically costs less upfront due to faster installation.
James Hardie siding in Spokane usually costs more initially but offsets that with fewer repairs, less repainting, and a longer lifespan.

For many Spokane homeowners, James Hardie becomes the more cost-effective option over 20–30 years of ownership.

How Much Does Siding Cost in Spokane >>

Final Verdict: Best Siding for Spokane Homes

While both products are widely used in Eastern Washington, James Hardie siding is generally the better choice for Spokane homeowners seeking a low-maintenance, long-lasting, and fire-resistant solution.

LP SmartSide can be a good option for homeowners focused on upfront affordability, but James Hardie’s durability, moisture resistance, and safety advantages make it the stronger long-term investment for Spokane’s climate.

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How Much Do Decks Cost in Spokane? Pricing, Materials & What Affects Cost

By Matthew Ugrin • January 9, 2026

Is it time to replace your deck? Most decks last 20–30 years, and often longer depending on the materials used and how well they’ve been maintained. If your deck is starting to look worn—or worse, feels unsafe—it’s smart to understand what a new deck might cost in Spokane.

How to Choose the Best Deck Material for Spokane Weather

By Matthew Ugrin • January 8, 2026

Choosing the right deck material is one of the most important decisions homeowners can make when building a deck in Spokane, WA. Spokane’s climate brings hot summers, cold winters, snow, rain, and frequent freeze-thaw cycles—all of which can impact the lifespan of your deck. The best deck materials for Spokane weather are those that offer durability, moisture resistance, and low maintenance while still enhancing your home’s appearance and value. Below, we break down the most popular decking materials in Spokane and how they perform in our local climate.

How Much does Siding Cost in Spokane? Pricing, Materials & What Affects Cost

By Matthew Ugrin • December 17, 2025

Is it time to replace your siding? With proper installation and maintenance, most siding materials can last 30 years or more. However, Spokane’s weather, sun exposure, and moisture can shorten that lifespan—especially if siding wasn’t installed correctly or hasn’t been maintained. Below is a breakdown of siding costs in Spokane, what impacts pricing, and the most common materials homeowners choose. Average Cost of Siding Installation in Spokane The cost of new siding depends on several factors, but most homeowners in the Spokane area can expect to pay: $7.50 – $13.50 per square foot installed This typically includes: Siding materials Labor Permits Removal of old siding Dump and disposal fees Larger homes, premium materials, or complex designs will fall on the higher end of this range.

Man in a hard hat and hoodie inspecting the blue siding of a house.

Get your Home Ready for Winter: Essential Siding Maintenance Tips for Spokane, WA

December 13, 2025

Preparing Your Siding for Winter Spokane winters are long, cold, and unforgiving. Heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures and constant moisture create repeated freeze-thaw cycles that can take a heavy toll on your home's siding. If siding isn't properly maintained, these conditions can lead to cracking, warping, moisture intrusion, and costly repairs. Preparing your siding before winter arrives is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your home, prevent structural damage, and extend the life of your siding. Below are essential siding maintenance steps every Spokane homeowner should take before the cold weather sets in. Clean your Siding Thoroughly Before winter, it's important to remove dirt mildew, and grime that can trap moisture against your siding. Using a garden hose or a pressure washer set to low pressure, gently wash the exterior of your home. Avoid excessive pressure, as it can damage siding and strip away protective sealants. As you clean, take time to inspect your siding closely. Look for: Cracked or missing caulking Peeling or fading paint Loose, warped, or damaged siding panels Cleaning your siding not only improves curb appeal but also helps reveal hidden issues that could worsen once winter arrives.