How to Install LP Smartside Yourself Like a Pro

So you are planning to install lp smartside to upgrade the exterior of your home. Installing is easier, and you can do it yourself. However, a silly mistake can damage the exterior of the home. That is why it is important to know how to install LP smartside properly.

Start by measuring the length of each wall where you plan to install the siding, prepare the surface, install the starter strip at the bottom of each wall, and add the finishing touches.

I know this little info is not going to be enough for you. Don’t worry, we will discuss each and every details so that you can successfully install LP smartside to upgrade your exterior easily. Read this article until the end.

How to Install LP Smartside – Step By Step

Lets see the detail process of installing lp smartside by yourself.

Prepration

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful LP SmartSide installation. Here are some important requirements to keep in mind:

Clearance

Maintain a minimum 6-inch (152 mm) clearance between the siding and the ground cover. Siding applied next to porches, patios, walks, roofs, or other hard-finished surfaces must have at least a 1-inch (25 mm) clearance above the surface.

Avoid direct contact with masonry

LP SmartSide siding should not be in direct contact with masonry, concrete, brick, stone, stucco, or mortar. A Backer rod is recommended to properly space materials in these locations.

Prevent moisture intrusion

Ensure that LP SmartSide siding is installed in a manner that prevents moisture intrusion and water accumulation. All wood substrate exposed to the weather must be sealed to prevent moisture intrusion and water accumulation.

Seal exposed cuts

Seal all exposed cuts of siding and trim. Do not use field spray applied coatings on cuts. Sealing can be accomplished by applying a coating or sealant according to the manufacturer’s requirements.

Do not use staples

Do not use staples when installing LP SmartSide siding. Always use the best nail gun for lp smartside.

Proper installation surfaces

LP SmartSide siding is designed to be installed directly to wood structural panel wall sheathing or can be installed directly to studs spaced a maximum of 16 inches (406 mm) on-center. It can also be installed over rigid foam insulation or to furring strips over concrete/masonry walls.

By following these important requirements, you can ensure a proper and long-lasting installation of LP SmartSide siding.

How much does it cost to install lp smartside

The cost of installing LP SmartSide siding can vary widely depending on various factors such as the size of the project, the type of SmartSide siding used, the location, and the contractor’s rates. However, according to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to install LP SmartSide siding is between $5,000 and $14,050 for a typical home, with the cost per square foot ranging from $4 to $11.

It’s important to note that this cost only covers the installation of the siding and does not include any additional expenses such as the cost of removing old siding or the cost of painting the new siding. It’s always recommended to get multiple quotes from different contractors to compare prices and ensure that you are getting a fair deal.

General Application Equipment

To install LP SmartSide siding, you will need the following equipment:

1. Fasteners: Use the correct nail gun for your installation, as the manufacturer specifies. Be sure to drive the pins correctly and avoid overdriving them.
2. Sealant: Use an exterior-quality, non-hardening, paintable sealant to seal around windows, doors, and other penetrations. Use a Class 25 or higher exterior sealant that meets the ASTM C920 Standard for Specification for Elastomeric Joint Sealants. Follow the sealant manufacturer’s instructions for application.
3. Paint: It is highly recommended that you use premium quality exterior 100% acrylic latex paint specially formulated on wood or engineered wood substrates. Semi-gloss or satin finish oil or alkyd paints are also acceptable. Check with the coating manufacturer for flat alkyd paint to ensure it is suitable for engineered wood siding.

What nails to use for lp smartside?

The recommended nails for LP SmartSide siding are corrosion-resistant, hot-dipped galvanized, stainless steel, or aluminum siding nails with a minimum 0.27-inch head and a shank diameter of at least 0.113 inch. The length of the nails will depend on the thickness of the siding and sheathing being used. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific LP SmartSide product being installed to ensure proper installation and performance.

Where to buy lp smartside

LP SmartSide siding can be purchased from a variety of building material retailers and home improvement stores. Some of the most popular retailers that carry LP SmartSide siding include:

• Home Depot
• Lowe’s
• Menards
• 84 Lumber
• Carter Lumber
• ABC Supply Co.
• BMC
• SRS Distribution

It is always a good idea to check with your local building supply store or home improvement store to see if they carry LP SmartSide siding or can order it for you. You can also visit the LP SmartSide website and use their dealer locator tool to find a dealer or distributor near you.

Step 1: Prepare the area

When preparing the surface for LP SmartSide siding installation, start by removing any debris, dirt, and protrusions that could interfere with the siding’s proper installation. This includes any nails, screws, or fasteners from the previous siding or trim. Ensure that the wall’s sheathing is clean, flat, and in good condition.

Next, inspect the area around the wall and check if there is enough clearance. Keep in mind that LP SmartSide siding must have at least 6 inches (152 mm) of clearance between the siding and the ground. Siding applied adjacent to porches, patios, walks, roofs, or other hard finished surfaces must have a clearance of at least 1 inch (25 mm) above that surface.

Additionally, make sure that the area around the wall is free from any potential water sources. Ensure that the ground slopes away from the wall to prevent water accumulation and damage to the siding.

Before proceeding, also make sure that all windows, doors, and any other openings on the wall have appropriate trim installed. The trim will help provide a finished look to the installation and keep water out of these areas. Use corrosion-resistant nails or screws to attach the trim and seal it with caulk.

Step 2: Install the trim

1. Measure the area around the windows, doors, and other openings to determine how much trim you will need.
2. Cut the trim pieces to the appropriate length using a saw.
3. Install the trim around the windows and doors first, making sure that it is level and flush with the surrounding siding.
4. Use corrosion-resistant nails or screws to attach the trim to the sheathing. For optimal durability, use 1-1/2 inch long nails with a diameter of at least 0.113 inches or equivalent screws.
5. Make sure the trim is properly sealed with caulk to prevent water infiltration. Apply a continuous bead of caulk along the top and sides of the trim, making sure to fill any gaps or voids.
6. Install corner trim pieces by overlapping the horizontal trim pieces, and cut the corners accurately to ensure a tight fit.
7. Use a level to make sure that the trim is straight and flush with the wall surface.
8. Double-check that all the trim is securely fastened, level, and properly sealed with caulk. Any loose trim or gaps can compromise the integrity of the siding and lead to water damage.

Step 3: Install the starter strip

Here are the detailed steps for installing the starter strip:

1. Measure the length of the wall where you will be installing the LP SmartSide siding and cut the starter strip accordingly.
2. Place the starter strip at the bottom of the wall and make sure it is level. If necessary, use shims to level it.
3. Secure the starter strip to the sheathing using corrosion-resistant nails or screws. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended fastening pattern and spacing.
4. Create a small gap between the bottom of the starter strip and the ground to allow for proper ventilation. This gap should be approximately 1 inch.
5. Double-check that the starter strip is still level and secure before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Install the first course

here are the step-by-step instructions for installing the first course of LP SmartSide siding:

1. Start at one end of the wall where you want to install the siding.
2. Place the LP SmartSide siding board at the corner of the wall and use a level to ensure that it is straight.
3. Attach the siding to the sheathing using nails or screws. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for spacing and placement of fasteners.
4. Leave a small gap between each piece of siding to allow for expansion and contraction. The gap should be approximately 3/16 inch or as specified by the manufacturer.
5. Continue to work your way across the wall, attaching each piece of siding with nails or screws and checking for level as you go.
6. Cut the last piece of siding to fit as necessary, leaving the same gap between it and the previous piece.
7. Once the first course is installed, double-check that it is level and adjust as necessary.
8. Repeat this process for each course of LP SmartSide siding, staggering the joints between each course.

By following these steps, you should be able to install the LP SmartSide siding in a straight, level, and secure manner, ensuring that it will provide durable and attractive protection for your home.

Step 5: Install the remaining courses

1. Stagger the joints: Start by staggering the joints between each course of siding to create a more visually appealing installation. This also helps to prevent water from seeping behind the siding.
2. Cut the last piece of siding: Measure and cut the last piece of siding to fit as necessary using a circular saw or jigsaw. Be sure to wear safety gear such as goggles and gloves while cutting.
3. Use a level: Like with the first course, use a level to ensure each piece of siding is straight and level. This will create a more professional-looking installation and prevent future issues.
4. Leave a small gap: Leave a small gap between each piece of siding to allow for expansion and contraction. The gap should be approximately 3/16 inch or as specified by the manufacturer.
5. Nail or screw the siding: Nail or screw the siding to the sheathing according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Always refer to the installation guide to determine the correct nailing pattern and spacing between fasteners.
6. Repeat the process: Continue installing the remaining courses of siding until the entire wall is covered. Remember to stagger the joints, cut the last piece of siding, use a level, and leave a small gap between each piece.

Step 6: Finish the installation

Once all of the LP SmartSide siding is installed, you need to finish the installation. Install the corner trim pieces and seal all of the joints and gaps with caulk. Then, apply the final coat of paint or stain to protect the siding and give it a finished look. LP SmartSide siding comes pre-primed, so make sure to apply the recommended paint or stain within 180 days of installation to ensure proper adhesion and protection.

Does lp smartside need to be painted?

Yes, LP SmartSide siding needs to be properly painted or stained. The siding comes pre-primed and ready for paint or stain, but leaving the siding unpainted or unstained is not recommended. This is because the pre-primed finish alone is not enough to protect the siding from weather and sun damage over time. 

A top coat of high-quality paint or stain will protect the siding and enhance its appearance and extend its lifespan. Additionally, painting or staining the siding allows for customization and color coordination with the rest of your home’s exterior.

Does lp smartside need sheathing?

LP SmartSide siding can be installed directly over wood structural panel wall sheathing or furring strips or installed directly to studs spaced a maximum of 16 inches on the center. However, it is recommended to use sheathing when installing LP SmartSide siding for several reasons.

Firstly, sheathing provides a smooth, flat surface for the siding to be installed, ensuring a better-finished appearance. Secondly, sheathing can help improve the wall’s structural integrity and provide additional insulation. Additionally, using sheathing can help prevent moisture intrusion and water accumulation, leading to damage and decay over time.

So while LP SmartSide siding can technically be installed without sheathing, it is recommended to use sheathing for best results and to ensure the long-term performance and durability of the siding.

Can lp smartside panels be installed horizontally?

Yes, LP SmartSide panels can be installed horizontally. In fact, horizontal installation is one of the most popular installation methods for LP SmartSide siding. When installed horizontally, the siding creates a sleek and modern look that can enhance your home’s curb appeal.

How to install lp smartside panels horizontally?

Lets see How to install lp smartside panels horizontally.

Step 1: Prepare the wall

Make sure the wall is properly sheathed with a suitable material such as OSB or plywood. Ensure that the wall surface is clean, dry, and free of any debris, protrusions, or damage. Check the wall for any defects or damage, and repair as needed.

Step 2: Install the starter strip

Install a starter strip at the bottom of the wall to provide a solid foundation for the siding panels. The starter strip should be level and secured to the sheathing with appropriate fasteners. The recommended fastener is a corrosion-resistant nail with a minimum length of 1 1/4 inches.

Step 3: Mark panel placement

Determine the first panel’s placement by measuring the panel’s width and adding the recommended expansion gap. Mark the position of the top and bottom of the panel on the wall with a chalk line or pencil. The expansion gap should be at least 3/16 inch or as specified by the manufacturer.

Step 4: Install the first panel

Align the top of the first panel with the top mark on the wall, leaving the recommended expansion gap at the bottom. Secure the panel to the sheathing with appropriate fasteners, following the manufacturer’s recommendations for nail or screw spacing and fastener length. For LP SmartSide siding, use a 2-inch galvanized nail or screw with a minimum head diameter of 0.27 inch.

Step 5: Install subsequent panels

Install the next panel, aligning it with the previous panel and leaving the recommended expansion gap between the panels. Secure the panel to the sheathing with appropriate fasteners. Continue installing subsequent panels in the same way until the entire wall is covered.

Step 6: Trim panels

Cut the panels to fit around windows, doors, and other obstructions using a circular saw or jigsaw. Leave a gap of at least 1/8 inch (3 mm) between the trimmed panel and the obstruction to allow for expansion.

Step 7: Apply sealant

Apply a non-hardening, paintable sealant to all vertical and horizontal panel joints, as well as to any gaps or voids around windows, doors, and other penetrations. Use a high-quality sealant that is compatible with LP SmartSide siding and follows the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Step 8: Paint or stain

Once the sealant has dried, paint or stain the siding panels with a high-quality exterior paint or stain that is suitable for use on wood or engineered wood substrates. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.

Step 9: Maintain the siding

Regularly inspect the siding panels for any signs of damage or deterioration, and repair or replace any damaged panels as needed. Clean the siding periodically to remove dirt and debris and maintain its appearance. The manufacturer recommends cleaning the siding at least once a year with a mild detergent solution and a soft-bristled brush.

Frequently asked questions

I know you still have some questions in mind. Please check the FAQs section below to get the answer.

WRAPPING UP

In conclusion, installing LP SmartSide siding requires careful planning and attention to detail to ensure a successful and durable installation. Proper preparation of the wall surface and the use of appropriate fasteners, sealant, and paint are critical to achieving a long-lasting result.

It is important to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions and recommendations, as well as local building codes, to ensure the safety and quality of the installation.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, including preparing the wall, installing the starter strip, marking panel placement, installing the panels, trimming them as necessary, and applying sealant and paint, you can achieve a beautiful and durable exterior siding that will enhance the look and value of your home.