Diamond Kote Siding vs LP SmartSide: Which Material Is Right for Your Home?
- Redfield Contracting
- Aug 15
- 4 min read
When it comes to choosing the perfect siding for your home, balancing durability, aesthetics, and cost is crucial.
Among the top contenders, Diamond Kote and LP SmartSide are two popular choices that homeowners and contractors often compare.
Both have their strengths, but determining the best option for your home comes down to understanding the differences in features, performance, and—most importantly—costs.
This guide will explore the costs of Diamond Kote and LP SmartSide, breaking down material expenses, installation factors, and long-term value. By the end, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of the Diamond Kote vs LP SmartSide cost comparison and which siding solution offers the best bang for your buck.
What Are Diamond Kote and LP SmartSide?
Before we jump into the numbers, it’s important to understand what these two siding products are and why they’re trusted by professionals.
Diamond Kote Siding
Diamond Kote is an advanced pre-finished siding system built on LP SmartSide. What sets it apart is its proprietary finish, which is baked-on for exceptional durability and resistance to fading, chipping, and peeling. It's a low-maintenance option designed to withstand harsh weather conditions while retaining its vibrant color and aesthetic appeal.
LP SmartSide Siding
LP SmartSide is an engineered wood product that combines the beauty of natural wood with the strength and resilience of treated engineered panels. It's known for being an affordable yet durable option, offering protection against moisture, insects, and impact damage. LP SmartSide serves as the base for Diamond Kote siding, but can also be purchased as unfinished siding.
Now that we’re clear on what each product offers, let's focus on costs.
Diamond Kote siding vs LP SmartSide Cost Comparison
Choosing between Diamond Kote siding and LP SmartSide often comes down to cost. While Diamond Kote offers a ready-to-install, pre-finished solution, LP SmartSide provides more flexibility for customizing your siding's final look but may require additional finishing costs.
1. Material Costs
Diamond Kote Siding Price
Diamond Kote siding typically costs between $8–$12 per square foot—this includes the engineered wood siding and its proprietary baked-on finish. The higher cost reflects the premium finish and reduced time spent on painting or staining after installation.
Pros of Diamond Kote’s Pricing:
Pre-finished siding eliminates the need for on-site painting, saving both time and labor costs.
The baked-on finish is highly durable and fade-resistant, offering long-lasting value.
Cost of LP SmartSide Siding
LP SmartSide siding, in its raw, unfinished form, has a lower upfront cost, generally ranging between $2–$5 per square foot. However, keep in mind that additional expenses will arise for painting or finishing.
Pros of LP SmartSide’s Pricing:
A budget-friendly material cost makes it accessible for a wide range of projects.
Flexibility to customize the color or finish to match your home’s aesthetic.
2. Installation Costs
While material costs are crucial, installation costs can significantly impact your budget. Whether you choose Diamond Kote or LP SmartSide, the complexity of the installation process (e.g., size of the house, design complexity) will influence total costs.
Diamond Kote: Since it’s pre-finished, installation is typically faster, which might reduce labor costs. However, its higher material cost means the overall investment could still be greater.
LP SmartSide: Installation costs for LP SmartSide will vary depending on whether you choose on-site painting or staining. Expect to spend extra time and money on finishing.
3. Long-Term Costs
When comparing the Diamond Kote vs LP SmartSide cost, it’s important to think beyond initial expenses. Maintenance and durability directly impact long-term value
Longevity of Diamond Kote
Thanks to its baked-on finish, Diamond Kote requires minimal maintenance—no need for repainting or touch-ups for decades. This feature makes it a cost-effective choice over the lifetime of the siding.
Maintenance for LP SmartSide
While LP SmartSide is durable, its longevity will depend on how well it’s painted or finished. Without proper upkeep, there’s a risk of fading or peeling, which can lead to additional maintenance costs over time.
Factors to Consider Beyond Cost
While price is an important factor, your ultimate choice between Diamond Kote and LP SmartSide should also reflect your priorities in durability, design, and lifestyle. Here are a few things to think about:
Durability
Diamond Kote: Superior weatherproof finish, designed to endure harsh weather and maintain its color longer.
LP SmartSide: Engineered wood construction provides impact resistance but relies on high-quality finishing for maximum durability.
Aesthetic Variety
Diamond Kote: Offers a range of curated colors and textures, ready to install and designed for consistent, uniform results.
LP SmartSide: Flexible for homeowners who want a custom-painted look or prefer to match an existing color scheme.
Environmental Impact
Both products are environmentally friendly in their ways, using eco-conscious manufacturing processes and materials. However, Diamond Kote’s long-lasting finish can reduce repainting and waste, contributing to its sustainability.
Which Siding Is Best for Your Needs?
The answer to that depends on your budget, priorities, and long-term siding goals. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Choose Diamond Kote if: You’re looking for a high-end, low-maintenance siding option that will maintain its color and integrity for decades with minimal maintenance.
Choose LP SmartSide if: You want an affordable, flexible siding option and are willing to invest extra in finishing for a custom look.
Many homeowners find that the cost of Diamond Kote siding pays for itself in reduced maintenance and longer service life, while LP SmartSide is ideal for those who prefer a lower upfront investment with the option to customize. If you’re looking for professional siding contractors to install Diamond Kote or LP SmartSide, our team can help.
Final Thoughts
When comparing the cost of Diamond Kote siding vs LP Smartside, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Both products offer unique benefits, and your choice will largely depend on your budget, maintenance preferences, and desired aesthetic.
Are you ready to transform your home with new siding? Contact us today for a free quote or consultation.