Old siding materials like LP Smartside and Masonite have become a source of constant worry for many Kansas City homeowners. Built into homes from the 1970s through the early 2000s, these products often lead to wood rot, swelling, and paint that just won’t stick. Over time, these problems turn into expensive repairs and ongoing frustration. That’s why more homeowners are choosing to replace LP Smartside with James Hardie fiber cement siding. With James Hardie, your home gets a reliable, low-maintenance exterior that stands up to Kansas City weather and keeps woodpeckers away for good.

Why LP Smartside and Masonite Fail Over Time

Common Problems We See

Many homes in our area have LP Smartside and Masonite siding that is failing. These materials were popular for decades because they were an affordable option for builders, but over time, they have shown their weaknesses:

• Wood Rot: These materials absorb moisture, leading to rot and decay that can weaken the home’s structure.
• Swelling and Warping: As moisture seeps in, the boards swell and warp. This can lead to gaps and cracks that let in more moisture and pests.
• Paint That Won’t Stick: Even if you repaint, these siding materials don’t hold paint well. This means you’re stuck repainting again and again, adding unnecessary costs.
• Vulnerability to Fire: Wood-based products like LP Smartside are also at risk of fire damage.

We replace LP Smartside with James Hardie because homeowners are tired of dealing with these issues. In fact, even homes built just 15 years ago show these problems. That’s why we get so many calls to fix them.

The Impact of Woodpeckers on LP Smartside

Woodpecker Damage in Kansas City

Woodpeckers are a big problem in Kansas City, and they love to go after wood-based siding. Our team sees three to five new leads every week because of woodpecker damage alone. Homeowners call us with holes in their siding that only get worse over time.

LP Smartside and Masonite are both highly susceptible to woodpecker damage. Once the birds start pecking, the damage spreads quickly. This is another key reason why we’re often called to replace LP Smartside with James Hardie. James Hardie fiber cement siding is made from cement and cellulose fibers, not wood, so there’s no reason for woodpeckers to go after it. There’s no such thing as a “cement pecker,” which means you don’t have to worry about this kind of damage once you’ve made the switch.

Why Replacing LP Smartside with James Hardie Siding is a Better Choice

Built to Last

When we replace LP Smartside with James Hardie, homeowners see a real difference in how their homes perform. James Hardie siding is engineered to resist rot, warping, and swelling. It holds paint well, so you’re not stuck repainting every few years. Plus, it’s non-combustible, adding another layer of protection for your home.

No More Woodpecker Headaches

James Hardie fiber cement siding doesn’t give woodpeckers a reason to stick around. Once you replace LP Smartside with James Hardie, you won’t see new holes popping up in your walls from woodpeckers looking for insects or nesting spots.

Our Experience With Siding Replacements

We’ve been helping homeowners replace LP Smartside with James Hardie for years. One thing we hear all the time is how surprised people are to see woodpecker damage or rotting in homes that are only 15 years old. Many people assume these problems only happen to older homes, but that’s just not true. Even newer LP Smartside can develop issues because it’s still a wood-based product.

At Fairway Exteriors, our crews know exactly what to look for when we start a project. We’ve worked on hundreds of homes with the same issues: rot, swelling, paint that doesn’t last, and holes from woodpeckers. We’re able to remove the failing materials, prepare your home properly, and install James Hardie siding that stands the test of time.

The Bottom Line for Kansas City Homeowners

If you’re dealing with constant maintenance, repainting, or woodpecker problems, it might be time to replace LP Smartside with James Hardie fiber cement siding. James Hardie offers a long-lasting solution that eliminates the problems we see week after week in homes across the Kansas City area. No more worries about wood rot or constant woodpecker damage, just a durable, beautiful exterior that holds up for decades.

At Fairway Exteriors, we’re here to make the transition smooth and worry-free. Call us today if you’re ready to see the difference James Hardie can make for your home.