One of the fundamental questions when dealing with firewood is understanding the relationship between a cord of wood and the more commonly known "rick." In this concise article, we’ll provide you with an accurate explanation of how many ricks of wood are in a cord, demystifying this common query for both technical and non-technical audiences.
Defining a Cord of Wood
A cord of wood is the standard unit of measurement for firewood. It is defined as a neatly stacked pile of wood that measures 4 feet in height, 4 feet in width, and 8 feet in length. This equates to 128 cubic feet of wood in a single cord.
The Rick of Wood
A rick is a less precise measurement compared to a cord and can vary by location. Typically, a rick is a stack of wood that is 4 feet in height, 8 feet in length, and the width can vary. The key difference is the depth; a rick is usually not as deep as a cord.
How Many Ricks in a Cord?
The number of ricks in a cord depends on the depth of the rick. Common rick depths include 12 inches, 16 inches, or 24 inches. Here’s how they compare to a cord:
12-Inch Rick: If each rick is 12 inches deep, it would take three ricks to equal the volume of a cord. This is because 12 inches is one-third of a cord’s depth (4 feet).
16-Inch Rick: With a rick that is 16 inches deep, it would take two ricks to match the volume of a cord. Sixteen inches represents half the depth of a cord.
24-Inch Rick: A rick that is 24 inches deep would be equivalent to one-third of a cord’s volume, so it would take three of these ricks to equal a cord.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the number of ricks in a cord depends on the depth of each individual rick. To convert ricks to cords, you need to consider the depth. A 12-inch rick requires three ricks to make a cord, a 16-inch rick needs two ricks to equal a cord, and a 24-inch rick would take three ricks to match the volume of a cord.
Understanding this relationship can be useful when buying, selling, or estimating the amount of firewood you need for heating your home. Keep in mind that local practices may influence the dimensions of a rick, so it’s always a good idea to clarify the depth when discussing firewood quantities with suppliers to ensure you get the amount you need.