Both James Hardie and LP SmartSide are top-tier siding choices for Colorado. James Hardie (fiber cement) is the better pick where wildfire resistance matters most — like foothills and interface areas — while LP SmartSide (engineered wood) is lighter, more impact-friendly against hail, warmer-looking, and faster to install. There’s no wrong answer between them; the right one depends on your home’s location, look, and budget.
James Hardie (fiber cement)
- Non-combustible — a real advantage in Colorado’s wildfire-prone foothills and WUI zones
- Extremely durable against rot, pests, and UV; long warranties
- Heavier and more labor-intensive to install, which adds cost
- Can crack on hard hail impact more readily than engineered wood
LP SmartSide (engineered wood)
- Lighter and faster to install, often lowering labor cost
- More impact-resistant/forgiving against hail than fiber cement
- Warm, real-wood look with treated engineered strand technology
- Combustible — less ideal than fiber cement in the highest fire-risk areas
How to choose in Colorado
If your home is in or near the foothills or a wildfire interface zone, fiber cement’s non-combustibility often tips the decision toward Hardie. If you’re on the plains with heavy hail exposure and want a warmer look with lower install cost, LP SmartSide is a strong fit. Both handle Colorado’s UV and freeze-thaw well when installed correctly — and correct installation matters more than the brand.
Common questions
Which siding is best for hail in Colorado?
Engineered wood like LP SmartSide tends to be more forgiving on hard hail impact, while fiber cement can chip or crack — though both can sustain hail damage and both are insurable.
Which is better for wildfire zones?
James Hardie fiber cement is non-combustible, which makes it the stronger choice in Colorado’s foothills and wildland-urban interface areas.
How much does siding cost in Colorado?
Re-siding a typical home generally runs into the tens of thousands depending on size, material, and prep. Fiber cement usually costs a bit more installed than engineered wood due to weight and labor.
Serving Boulder, Weld, Larimer, Jefferson, and Douglas Counties. Josh Brooks Construction and Renovation Inc. (License CON-24-0152, in business since 2014, 30 years in construction) installs both James Hardie and LP SmartSide. For a free estimate, call 720-828-7997 or text 720-453-5095.
Costs are general Colorado ranges; your project may vary. Ask for a free written estimate.
