When you’re heating your home with a wood-burning stove, understanding the terminology and measurements associated with firewood is essential. One common question that arises is, "How many ricks are in a full cord?" In this article, we’ll provide a clear and concise answer to this question.
1. What Is a Cord of Firewood?
A cord of firewood is a standard measurement used to quantify the volume of wood. It is defined as a stack of wood that measures 4 feet in height, 4 feet in width, and 8 feet in length. This results in a total volume of 128 cubic feet.
2. What Is a Rick of Firewood?
A rick of firewood is a less standardized term and can vary by location. Typically, a rick is considered to be a face cord, which means it is a stack of wood that measures 4 feet in height and 8 feet in length. However, the width of a rick can vary. Some may stack it 16 inches wide, while others might stack it 24 inches wide. As a result, the volume of a rick can vary.
3. How Many Ricks in a Full Cord?
The number of ricks in a full cord depends on the width of the rick. Here’s a breakdown:
- If a rick is stacked 16 inches wide, it would take 2 ricks to equal the volume of a full cord.
- If a rick is stacked 24 inches wide, it would take 1.33 (approximately 1 and 1/3) ricks to equal the volume of a full cord.
It’s important to clarify the width of the rick with the seller to ensure you’re getting the amount of firewood you need.
4. Buying Firewood:
When purchasing firewood, it’s crucial to understand the measurements used by the seller. Always ask for specifics to avoid any misunderstandings. Some sellers may refer to face cords as "ricks," which can lead to confusion. To ensure you’re getting the amount of wood you require, ask for the dimensions of the stack, not just the term "rick."
Conclusion:
A cord of firewood is a standard measurement representing 128 cubic feet of wood. The term "rick" is less standardized and can vary in size, typically being a face cord. The number of ricks in a full cord depends on the width of the rick, with 2 ricks at 16 inches wide or approximately 1.33 ricks at 24 inches wide equaling a full cord. To avoid misunderstandings when buying firewood, clarify the dimensions of the wood stack with the seller. Understanding these measurements will help you ensure you get the right amount of firewood for your wood-burning stove.