5 Myths About Engineered Wood Siding Debunked

You shouldn’t believe everything you hear, especially when it comes to engineered wood siding. At LP, our experts love to educate contractors and consumers on the many advantages of engineered wood products. Here are a few of the myths that we most often come across.

MYTH #1: “Engineered wood siding is fake wood."

Engineered wood is not fake, it’s real wood that has been engineered to perform better! At LP, this material begins with quality wood strands or wood fibers that are treated to the core with an advanced formula of waxes, adhesive resins and zinc borate. The treated wood is then bonded with a resin-saturated, water-resistant overlay. Combined, these steps are known as the SmartGuard^® process. The result is a product that can keep out moisture and resist fungal decay for long-term durability and strength.

MYTH #2: “Engineered wood siding doesn't last."

Wrong! Durability is one of the biggest benefits of building with engineered wood siding. Thanks to the SmartGuard process, LP^® SmartSide^® trim and siding have been shown to remain strong and beautiful even after prolonged exposure to hot, dry weather and intense sunlight. LP SmartSide siding has been tested by exposure to the extreme moisture and thriving termite colonies of Hilo, Hawaii. Even after years of exposure, it remains structurally sound. In independent testing by NASA, LP SmartSide products were found to be more impact damage-resistant than fiber cement siding.

MYTH #3: “Engineered wood siding looks bad."

No way! LP SmartSide treated engineered wood has the look of real wood, thanks to its realistic, deep cedar-grain texture and defining shadow lines. Its beautiful finish helps it to stand apart from other siding materials. Engineered wood siding reviews repeatedly praise the beautiful visual appeal of homes sided with LP SmartSide. See how it looks for yourself.

MYTH #4: “Engineered wood siding is not eco-friendly."

Wrong again. The primary ingredient in LP SmartSide engineered wood products is wood – a natural, renewable resource. All of the forests directly managed by LP in North America are certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative and managed in accordance with forest management plans. Products certified to SFI standards are recognized by many leading green building rating programs around the world.

MYTH #5: “Engineered wood siding is expensive."

Engineered wood may be less expensive to purchase and to maintain than other types of exterior cladding. When you consider the longevity and durability of engineered wood fiber siding – with LP SmartSide products backed by a 50-year limited warranty – this material truly makes for a great investment!

Get the Facts About Engineered Wood Siding

Learn more about the innovative features of LP SmartSide engineered wood products, then find an LP preferred remodeler near you.