What Is A Rick Of Firewood – And How To Measure It For Your Woodpile
You have likely stood at a roadside wood stand, looking at a neat stack of logs, and wondered exactly how much fuel you are getting for your money. Misunderstanding wood measurements is the fastest way to get shortchanged when prepping for a long winter or a season of heavy campfire use.
Understanding what is a rick of firewood is essential for anyone heating a home with a wood stove or planning an extended overlanding trip. Knowing the precise volume ensures you have enough warmth to last through the coldest nights without running dry prematurely.
In this guide, we will break down standard firewood measurements, show you how to calculate your stack, and help you avoid common purchasing mistakes. Let’s make sure your next wood delivery is exactly what you paid for.
Table of Contents
Defining what is a rick of firewood in practical terms
The term rick is a common regional measurement that often causes confusion because it lacks a universal legal definition. Unlike a standard “cord” of wood, which is strictly defined by government and trade standards, a rick can vary significantly depending on where you live.
Generally, a rick refers to a stack of firewood that is four feet high and eight feet long. The depth of this stack usually matches the length of the individual logs, which typically run between 16 and 18 inches.
Because the depth is shorter than a standard cord, a rick is often referred to as a “face cord.” It is the most common quantity sold for residential wood stoves and backyard fire pits.
The difference between a cord and a rick
To truly understand what is a rick of firewood, you must compare it against the gold standard of wood measurement: the full cord. A full cord is a legal unit of measure that equals exactly 128 cubic feet of wood.
A full cord is stacked four feet high, four feet deep, and eight feet long. When you look at the math, a full cord is essentially three ricks stacked side-by-side if your logs are 16 inches long.
When buying wood, always clarify the log length with your supplier. If the logs are longer than 16 inches, a single rick will contain more volume than a standard 16-inch rick, which affects the total price you should pay.
Why volume matters for off-grid living
If you are living off-grid or relying on a wood stove for your primary heat source, you need to calculate your burn rate. A single rick might keep a small space warm for a few weeks, but a full winter season often requires several full cords.
Always track how many ricks you consume in a typical month. This helps you build a prepper pantry of fuel that ensures you never run out during an unexpected cold snap or supply chain disruption.
How to measure your woodpile accurately
If you want to verify your delivery, you need a tape measure and a little bit of patience. Start by ensuring the wood is stacked on level ground to keep your measurements consistent.
Measure the length and the height of the stack in feet. Multiply these two numbers to get the square footage of the face of the stack. Then, multiply that by the average length of the logs in feet.
- Measure the total length of the row.
- Measure the average height of the stack.
- Multiply the length by the height.
- Multiply by the depth of the logs (usually 1.33 feet for 16-inch logs).
If the final number is close to 42.6 cubic feet, you have received roughly one rick. If the stack is significantly smaller, you may have been shorted on your order.
Factors that affect the quality of your firewood
Volume is only one part of the equation when learning what is a rick of firewood. You also need to assess the quality, moisture content, and species of the wood you are purchasing for your home or campsite.
Seasoning and moisture levels
Never burn “green” or unseasoned wood. Green wood has a high water content, which causes excessive smoke, creosote buildup in your chimney, and very little heat output.
Look for wood that has been split and stacked for at least six to twelve months. You can tell if wood is seasoned by checking for cracks on the ends of the logs and a hollow sound when two pieces are knocked together.
Choosing the right species
Different woods provide different levels of heat energy. Hardwoods like oak, hickory, and maple are the “gold standard” for long-burning fires. They are denser and provide more consistent heat than softwoods like pine or spruce.
Softwoods are excellent for starting a fire quickly, but they burn fast and can leave behind more resin. Keep a mix of both if you are a camper who needs a quick blaze for cooking and a long-lasting fire for warmth.
Safety tips for stacking and storing wood
Once you have your wood delivered, how you store it is just as important as the quantity. Proper storage keeps the wood dry and prevents pests from moving into your living space.
Keep it off the ground
Never stack wood directly on the dirt. Moisture from the ground will wick into the bottom layer of logs, causing rot and decay. Use pallets, pressure-treated lumber, or a dedicated steel firewood rack to keep your wood elevated.
Maximize airflow
Stack your wood in a way that allows the wind to blow through the pile. This is the secret to keeping your supply seasoned and ready for the fire. If you use a tarp, only cover the top, leaving the sides exposed to ensure the moisture can escape.
Frequently Asked Questions About What Is A Rick Of Firewood
Is a rick of firewood the same as a cord?
No, they are not the same. A full cord is 128 cubic feet of wood, whereas a rick is typically about one-third of that volume, measuring 4 feet high by 8 feet long with 16-inch logs.
How many logs are in a rick?
The number of logs varies greatly depending on the diameter of the wood. A rick of smaller-diameter logs will contain many more individual pieces than a rick of large-diameter logs, even though the total volume remains the same.
Should I pay by the rick or by the cord?
Most reputable suppliers sell by the cord. If a seller insists on using “ricks,” clarify the dimensions of their stack first. Always prioritize buying by volume rather than a vague count of “truckloads.”
How do I know if the wood is dry enough to burn?
The best tool is a moisture meter. Ideally, your firewood should have a moisture content of 20% or lower. If you don’t have a meter, look for deep checking (cracks) on the ends of the logs and a lightweight feel.
Final thoughts on building your wood supply
Mastering what is a rick of firewood is a small but vital skill for any outdoor enthusiast or homesteader. Whether you are prepping for a harsh winter or stocking up for a season of backcountry adventures, knowing your measurements prevents waste and ensures comfort.
Take the time to source high-quality, seasoned wood and store it correctly. By doing so, you protect your investment and ensure that every log you toss into the fire provides the heat and ambiance you expect.
Stay warm, keep your axe sharp, and enjoy the satisfaction of a well-stocked woodpile. Your future self will thank you when the first frost hits!
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