When it comes to using a wood-burning stove, understanding the quantity of firewood you need is essential for efficient heating. One common measurement for firewood is a "rick." In this article, we’ll clarify what a rick is and provide practical guidance on estimating the amount of wood you can expect from it.
What Is a Rick of Firewood?
A "rick" is a traditional term for a stack of firewood. It’s typically a measure of volume, and the exact dimensions can vary by region. The term "rick" is often used interchangeably with other terms like "cord," "face cord," or "stack."
Dimensions of a Rick
The size of a rick can vary, but a standard rick is generally considered to be a stack of wood that measures 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and the depth of the individual pieces of wood being stacked. This creates a volume of 1/3 of a cord.
Measuring Firewood in Cords
In the world of firewood, a "cord" is the standard unit of measurement. A full cord is a stack of wood that measures 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and 4 feet deep, resulting in a total volume of 128 cubic feet. A rick is a smaller measurement, specifically 1/3 of a cord, or approximately 42.67 cubic feet.
Calculating Wood in a Rick
To estimate the amount of wood in a rick, you’ll need to consider the dimensions of your stack. Typically, a rick with standard dimensions (4 feet high, 8 feet long) will have a depth of the individual pieces that can vary but will generally be around 16-24 inches deep.
Measure the depth of the stack in feet (for instance, 2 feet or 1.5 feet).
Calculate the volume by multiplying the dimensions: 4 feet (height) x 8 feet (length) x the depth in feet.
The result is the volume in cubic feet.
To convert it to cords, divide by 128 (the number of cubic feet in a full cord).
Example: If your rick is 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and 2 feet deep, the calculation would be: 4 feet x 8 feet x 2 feet = 64 cubic feet. Divide by 128, and you have 0.5 cords.
Conclusion
Understanding the volume of wood in a rick is crucial when buying or estimating firewood for your wood-burning stove. By knowing the standard dimensions and how to calculate the volume of wood, you can ensure you have an adequate supply to keep your stove burning efficiently throughout the cold months. Whether you refer to it as a rick, face cord, or stack, knowing how much wood you have is the first step in maintaining a warm and cozy environment with your wood-burning stove.