Retrofit rainscreen on plywood siding
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Hi,
I am looking to protect a wall that is highly exposed to wind and rain on a small house on the windward rainforest side of Maui which is now getting some rot issues after 7 years.
The house was built with plastic house wrap (tyvek or similar) on studs, under painted plywood siding/sheathing with strips creating a board and batten surface. Essentially similar to a T1-11 siding. No wall insulation. Vinyl windows set directly on top of plywood with trim but without flashing.
After 7 years of periodic heavy direct wind and rain the lower part of the plywood and batten strips have started to rot in some places and moisture has also come behind some of the window trim creating a little rot in some areas. I am considering retrofitting a rainscreen. Another option would be to build a covered porch on that side, but probably considerably more work and will block a lot of the light.
My questions are:
What might be the best rain screen wall – am considering Hardie board on furring spacers? Should I use tar paper or other WRB over the existing painted plywood, or just leave the painted surface – am concerned about sandwiching moisture?
Thankful for any help here!
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