OK folks, here is an interesting question. I will be constructing an addition to my DC rowhouse shortly and as DC rowhouses go, the addition will be built right up to the property line. There are plenty of complexities as far as this goes, but one big one I am trying to work out. In order to install the siding on the addition, I imagine I will have to access my neighbor's property. We are friendly enough, but I would prefer to avoid this if at all possible.

Of course it is possible to sheathe the walls before raising them and I've read about how to install the housewrap before raising the walls as well. Is there anyway at all to install siding before raising the walls? Has anyone ever done this? I will be using Hardie Plank cementfiber siding. The addition is 3 floors.

Any thoughts would be appreciated!

Installing the siding before the addition gets put on can result in a variety of potential problems.

Talk to your neighbor (since he is friendly) to confirm that he's OK with the siding installers being in his yard for a short bit.

... and of course double and triple check that you are not encroaching on his property with your addition.