Rhode Island General Laws Title 23. Health and Safety § 23-27.3-124.6. Boarding

(a) Any building or structure which is ordered secure for any reason by the building official shall be boarded in accordance with the following specifications:

(b) All openings (including doors and windows) from cellar to second floor inclusive, and all windows above the second floor leading to fire escapes, porches, or structural appurtenances on all floors must be covered from the exterior with a minimum of one-half inch ( 1/2 ″) thick exterior grade plywood secured with screws of minimum length 1 5/8 ″ or 2″ (6d) ring shank nails placed 12 inches on center around the perimeter of the opening.  Plywood shall be fitted so it rests snugly against the exterior frame butting up to the moulding or siding.  All other windows must be secured in a similar manner with 3/8 ″ plywood from either the exterior or interior of the building.