Vinyl isn’t the only alternative. Here’s how fiber cement stacks up against the other materials on Dallas–Fort Worth houses.
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LP SmartSide engineered wood is lighter and carries a 5/50-year warranty (5 years of full labor and materials, then prorated), while James Hardie fiber cement has a 30-year non-prorated substrate warranty and doesn’t rot. Real wood needs the most upkeep; brick, common on DFW homes, needs little but costs far more to add; stucco needs careful water management and, in Arlington, a permit.
| Material | Strengths | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| James Hardie fiber cement | Doesn’t rot; non-combustible; 30-year non-prorated substrate warranty | Heavy; installation details matter; cut edges must be sealed |
| LP SmartSide engineered wood | Lighter, long boards; treated against fungal decay and termites; 5/50 warranty | Prorated after year 5; keep paint and edges sealed |
| Real wood (cedar, pine) | Natural look | Rot, pests and frequent painting or staining |
| Brick veneer | Very low maintenance | Expensive to add; mortar and weep holes need care |
| Stucco / EIFS | Seamless look | Hidden water damage if flashing fails; Arlington requires a permit |
James Hardie is the best-known fiber cement brand, but others exist, such as Allura. Compare the warranty terms and the finish options product by product.
They’re different materials. LP SmartSide is engineered wood with a 5/50-year prorated warranty; Hardie is fiber cement with a 30-year non-prorated substrate warranty. Both need proper installation and sealed edges.
In Arlington, yes. Check your city’s rules before starting.
This guide is general information for Texas homeowners, not legal or insurance advice. Your policy, your city and your house decide the details.
