Spotlight on Siding, Part 3: How Long Does Composite Siding Last?

Welcome back to our series on the lifespan of different types of residential siding.

In Part 1, we covered vinyl siding, and Part 2 dove into cement board siding. In this installment of the series we’re shifting our attention to composite siding, and for the purposes of this article we’ll be focusing on LP SmartSide composite siding — the premier product in its category because of its amazing quality and outstanding warranty.

In addition to the lifespan of composite siding, we’ll also touch upon pricing, plus the top pros and cons of this particular type of siding. But first, let’s quickly define what composite siding is …

WHAT IS COMPOSITE SIDING MADE OF?

LP SmartSide composite siding products are made from engineered wood, which is composed of wood strands (also referred to as fibers). These wood strands are typically derived from sustainably harvested trembling aspen trees. Wood strands are bonded with waxes, zinc borate and water-resistant resins to form an incredibly durable siding solution. LP SmartSide is also made using a proprietary SmartGuard® process that resists impacts, moisture, fungal decay and termites.

COMPOSITE SIDING LIFESPAN

To begin, as with vinyl and cement siding, there are many factors that affect the lifespan of composite siding. 

That said, LP SmartSide typically lasts between 30 to 50 years, and in some cases even longer. This decades-long lifespan is the result of composite siding’s “ingredients,” that make it moisture-, insect-, rot, and UV-resistant.

A note on warranties …

• LP SmartSide composite siding is backed by a 5/50-year limited warranty, which means 5 years of 100% labor and material coverage, with 45 years of prorated (on materials) coverage thereafter.
• This warranty covers termite damage, fungal decay — as well as hail damage (up to 1 ¾” diameter), as long as the siding is installed and maintained according to specifications.
• Substrate Protection: Buckling and/or cracking of engineered wood substrate warranty is 50 years.
• This warranty is transferable to new homeowners.

The reason we’re bringing up warranty info is because it is an important factor in the decision-making process — so be sure to inquire about siding warranties with your potential siding contractor!

Factors that contribute to the wide lifespan range of composite siding include:

The Quality of the Composite Siding Solution

As we’ve mentioned before, there are different levels of quality when it comes to siding products, and this holds true for composite siding — so make sure you don’t make your choice on price alone.

On this note, it’s important to ask your potential siding contractor questions about the siding solutions they offer before signing on the dotted line. Another thing to keep in mind is that your solution might not be the one that’s going to last the longest. For instance, if you need new siding, and are planning on selling your home in a few years, you might not want to spend the extra dollars on composite or cement board siding. A reputable, local contractor will be more than happy to provide you with the solution that meets your needs and your budget.

The Quality of the Installation

As with any home improvement project, installation plays a big part in how long your siding will last. This is why it’s critical to seek out LOCAL siding contractors who are fully insured, reputable in the community, and committed to consistent professional training that keeps them up to date with the current best practices for siding installation.

If a siding contractor seems nice, that’s not enough. You’ll have to do your homework before signing on with them because you don’t want to put yourself in a position where your new siding is installed poorly, or to have the warranty voided because of a negligent or uninsured contractor.

Climate & Weather

As you may have guessed, the climate and weather in our area can play a considerable role in how long your siding lasts. That said, as we’ll soon see, if upkeep and maintenance are performed regularly, the wear-and-tear from our Wisconsin weather can often be diminished.

Some of the major forms of weather and climate wear-and-tear include:

• High winds and storms that can cause impact damage or siding blow off
• UV Exposure, which can break down siding and cause brittleness and fading
• Freeze/thaw cycles, much like the ones we have already experienced this winter, can cause expansion & contraction, causing physical stress on siding
• Rainy (or snowy) seasons that cause high moisture levels, can make siding more prone to mildew & mold

Maintenance

Yes, composite siding is low maintenance, although from time to time it will need attention and care. And while maintenance is not a favorite task for most homeowners — it can drastically increase the lifespan of your siding (and your roof for that matter).

Here’s a list of the most common maintenance tasks for composite siding:

• A routine cleaning annually, which is as simple as using a non-high-pressure garden hose
• Inspect sealant including caulk lines around doors and windows once a year
• Repainting every 10–15 years, or so; that said, if you use a product like LP SmartSide’s ExpertFinish siding, this timeframe may be extended, or potentially unnecessary (although at some point you will most likely, at least, need some touch up work)

Factory Finish

One of the options that LP SmartSide offers is their ExpertFinish. This is a premium, pre-finished engineered wood siding and trim system that’s created with their SmartGuard® process — adding more resistance to moisture, fungal decay & termites.

This finish is factory-applied, and adds durability and additional years to your siding. Even if you don’t choose LP SmartSide for your siding, it’s worth considering a factory finish on your solution.

COST RANGE

As of this writing, here are some numbers for LP SmartSide composite siding:

• Cost per square foot averages between $10–$25, installed
• Overall cost (once again, installed) is approximately $21,000–$53,000 depending on home size and siding style chosen
• Average cost split is:
  • Materials: $5–$10+ per sq. ft.
  • Labor: $1–$4+ per sq. ft.

COMPOSITE SIDING PROS

• It’s Easy to Install: Composite siding is light weight, and a quicker install as compared to other siding materials, for a lower installation cost
• It’s Low Maintenance: When compared to wood or vinyl siding, you will spend less time on repairs and upkeep
• The Durability Factor: Simply put, composite siding is engineered for longevity, even with the harsh winters and hot summers we experience here in Dane County
• It’s Energy Efficient: Composite siding has outstanding insulation properties, keeping a home cooler in summer and warmer in winter (this also helps reduce the cost of utility bills)
• It Can Be Eco-Friendly: These days, composite siding can be a green choice, as many brands use recycled materials in the manufacturing process
• Sound Dampening Ability: Something that you might not think about right away is the ability for composite siding to dampen sound from outside your home

COMPOSITE SIDING CONS

• A Higher Initial Cost: Compared to vinyl or wood siding, the upfront cost of composite siding can be higher
• Moisture and Installation Sensitivity: This is a con only if your composite siding is not installed with the necessary exactness — so remember to hire a reputable, experienced contractor!
• Fading & Discoloration Can Occur: Especially if it is not a factory finished product; this can lead to the need to repaint your siding if it is exposed to intense sunlight
• Visible Seams: The seams between panels on composite siding can be visible; that said, the same is true — to a higher degree — for vinyl siding
• Repair Can be More Challenging: Composite siding repair can be more complex and more expensive than other siding materials
• Environmental Impact: Although many composite siding options are made from recycled materials, the flip side is that they are not biodegradable

Get In Touch

Whether you have some questions, or would like to schedule a complimentary inspection of your siding, with no strings attached, feel free to contact Legacy Exteriors anytime. We’re always happy to help — even during the winter months!