Is LP SmartSide or fiber cement siding a better choice for a home in Moncton with our freeze-thaw cycles?

Both LP SmartSide and fiber cement perform well in Moncton's challenging freeze-thaw climate, but fiber cement has a slight edge for long-term durability in our coastal Maritime conditions.

Moncton's location near the Petitcodiac River and Fundy coast means your home faces frequent temperature swings, high humidity, and salt air exposure that can be tough on exterior materials. Fiber cement siding (brands like James Hardie or Allura) handles these conditions exceptionally well because it's dimensionally stable — it won't expand and contract significantly with temperature changes, reducing the stress on caulk joints and paint systems that often fail first in our climate.

LP SmartSide is engineered wood with a weather-resistant overlay that performs much better than traditional wood siding in moisture. However, it still experiences some movement with humidity changes, and the substrate is wood-based. In Moncton's wet springs and humid summers, this can be a consideration for long-term performance.

Cost-wise in the Moncton market, expect LP SmartSide installed at $8-12 per square foot, while fiber cement runs $10-15 per square foot. The higher upfront cost of fiber cement often pays off through lower maintenance — it typically needs repainting every 12-15 years versus 8-10 years for LP SmartSide.

For installation timing, both products can be installed year-round, but optimal conditions are May through October when temperatures consistently stay above 5°C for proper caulking and paint curing. Any siding project in Moncton requires a building permit — contact the City of Moncton Planning & Development at (506) 856-4375 or visit moncton.ca.

Professional installation is strongly recommended for either product. Proper flashing, vapor barriers, and detail work around windows and trim are critical in our wet climate. Poor installation will cause problems regardless of which siding you choose.

Your best next step is getting quotes from contractors experienced with both products in the Maritime climate — they can assess your specific home's exposure and recommend the best choice for your situation and budget.