Covering exterior cinder block under window

[Torn Mind]

Some plywood covering the cinder blocks under the window has started failing at the bottom. The maximum possible thickness I can use if I just straight up replace the plywood is 5/8in and likely 1/2in to keep a gap between the block and window.

However, I think I should replace it with a material that doesn't absorb water from the surrounding brick veneer.

I have a space of 27in x 65.5in of area to cover. This area recessed relative to the brick veneer.

 

[herm0016]

painted?

https://www.lowes.com/pd/James-Hardie-48-in-x-96-in-HZ5-HardiePanel-Stucco-Fiber-Cement-Vertical-Siding/3071701

there are several textures to choose from.

 

[Torn Mind]

Right now, I might just do a temporary repair of just removing the worst of the plywood and inserting in a piece.

I'm tempted to do stucco for something longer lasting and durable but i might mess up the air cavity between the brick veneer and cinder block.

This is a 50 year old townhouse and it's not a house I'm dearly in love with.

 

[herm0016]

It's a sheet of cement siding that looks like stucco, or whatever texture you get. Tear off the ply and replace with this. Should last 50 years. Why do it twice?

 

[jmagg]

Check the window sill above for water infiltration.