Quick Answer: What Is a Rick of Wood?
A rick of wood is essentially a neatly stacked pile of firewood that measures approximately 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and 12 to 16 inches deep. It’s about one-third the size of a full cord of wood, but the depth can vary depending on your region or your firewood supplier. This is the quick answer, but to truly understand what a rick of wood is, how to use it, and why it matters, you need to read the full guide for the full picture.
Why Knowing Rick of Wood Really Matters
It might sound like a small detail, but knowing what a rick actually is can save you time, money, and frustration. Here’s why:
- Prevent overpaying: Some suppliers advertise firewood by the “cord,” but only deliver a face cord.
- Plan accurately: Knowing how much wood you need helps you buy the right amount before winter hits.
- Storage logistics: Firewood takes up a lot of space. Misjudging the size of a rick can leave you scrambling for storage or short on fuel.
Trust us, when it’s freezing outside, you don’t want to run out of wood because you thought you bought a cord but only got a rick.
What Is a Rick of Wood, Really?
Let’s start with the basics. A rick of wood is essentially a stack of firewood that’s:
- 4 feet high
- 8 feet long
- And about 12 to 24 inches deep, depending on the length of the logs.
That’s right, the depth is the key variable here. Most commonly, ricks are made up of 16-inch logs, which makes a rick roughly one-third of a full cord.
A full cord of wood is defined as:
- 4 feet high
- 4 feet deep
- 8 feet long
= 128 cubic feet of wood
So if you’re buying a rick with 16-inch logs (which is ⅓ of 48 inches), you’re getting about 42–43 cubic feet of wood not a full cord, and often far less than people realize.
Quick Comparison (Rick vs. Full Cord)
| Measurement | Height | Length | Depth | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Cord | 4 ft | 8 ft | 4 ft | 128 cu ft |
| Rick (Face Cord) | 4 ft | 8 ft | 12–24 in | ~32–64 cu ft |
Knowing what is a rick of wood in cubic feet can help you calculate how many ricks to buy, depending on your heating needs.
Where the Term “Rick” Comes From
The word “rick” dates back centuries. It comes from Old English and Old Norse origins, where it simply meant a pile or stack usually of hay, grain, or firewood. Over time, it evolved into regional slang in the U.S., especially in the Midwest and South.
Unlike a “cord,” which is a legally defined unit of measurement in many states, a rick has no standard definition, which is why confirming the dimensions is so important.
Is a Rick the Same as a Face Cord?
In most cases, yes a rick and a face cord are the same thing. Both refer to a stack of wood that is 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and the depth of the individual logs.
But don’t assume all sellers mean the same thing. Some might sell logs at 12 inches, others at 24 inches. The difference in volume is significant.
Always ask:
“How long are the logs in your rick?”
If they say 16 inches, great you know you’re getting about one-third of a cord. If they say 24 inches, you’re getting closer to half a cord.
Types of Firewood Commonly Sold by the Rick
Not all firewood is created equal. Whether you’re heating a home, cabin, or just making cozy fires, the type of wood matters. Knowing what is a rick of wood also means knowing what kind of wood you’re getting:
Hardwoods
- Examples: Oak, maple, hickory, ash
- Pros: Burns hotter and longer, less smoke
- Cons: More expensive, heavier
Softwoods
- Examples: Pine, fir, spruce, cedar
- Pros: Cheaper, easier to ignite
- Cons: Burns quickly, produces more creosote (bad for chimneys)
If you want long-lasting heat (especially for overnight burns), opt for hardwood ricks. Use softwoods for kindling or mild-weather fires.
How to Measure and Buy a Rick of Wood
Here’s how to make sure you’re getting what you pay for:
Step 1: Confirm the Dimensions
Ask the seller for:
- Height
- Length
- Log depth (usually 12–24 inches)
Step 2: Choose Your Wood Type
Match the wood to your heating needs. Hardwood for efficiency, softwood for convenience.
Step 3: Do the Math
Since a rick is roughly one-third of a cord, if you usually burn 3 cords of wood each winter, you’ll need about 9 ricks to get through the season. Want to make the math easier? Try our Cord of Wood Calculator to quickly estimate firewood volume, cost, and overall value before you buy.
Step 4: Inspect the Wood
Look for:
- Seasoned wood (dry, grayish, cracking ends)
- No mold or pests
- Uniform size and split logs
If the wood is green or unseasoned, it won’t burn efficiently and can create excess creosote, which may damage your stove or chimney. For safe burning practices and tips on properly seasoning firewood, see the EPA’s Burn Wise guidelines.
How Long Will a Rick of Wood Last?
This depends on several factors:
- Your stove or fireplace efficiency
- The type of wood (hardwood lasts longer)
- How often you burn fires
As a rule of thumb:
- A rick of hardwood could last 2–4 weeks for regular household use
- A rick of softwood might last 1–2 weeks
What Is a Rick of Wood FAQs
How many pieces are in a rick of wood?
A rick of firewood typically contains 275 to 325 individual pieces, depending on how the wood is split and stacked.
How long does a rick of wood last?
A rick of seasoned hardwood can last 2 to 4 weeks, while softwood burns faster and may only last 1 to 2 weeks, depending on usage and stove efficiency.
Is a rick of wood the same as a face cord?
Yes, a rick is often used interchangeably with a face cord. Both measure 4 feet high by 8 feet long, but the depth of the logs (usually 12–24 inches) determines the actual volume.
How much does a rick of wood cost?
A rick of wood typically costs between $75 and $150, depending on your location, the type of wood (hardwood vs. softwood), and the season.
Can you stack a rick of wood indoors?
You can stack a rick of wood indoors only if it’s fully seasoned and the area is well-ventilated. However, outdoor stacking is safer and reduces the risk of pests or mold.
How many ricks make a full cord?
It usually takes three ricks of 16-inch logs to make one full cord of wood, but this can vary depending on log length
Why is firewood sold by the rick instead of by the cord?
Firewood is often sold by the rick because it’s easier to handle and visualize, especially for homeowners who don’t need a full cord.
What’s the best way to dry a rick of wood?
To dry a rick of wood properly, stack it off the ground, cover the top, leave the sides open for airflow, and rotate older wood to the front for even drying.
Final Thoughts: Firewood Math Matters
Buying firewood isn’t just about getting a pile of logs. It’s about understanding what you’re buying, how much you need, and how to use and store it correctly.
A rick of wood is a useful unit for casual buyers and seasoned wood burners alike but only if you understand what it represents. So next time you’re prepping for winter, remember:
✅ Always ask for dimensions
✅ Know what kind of wood you’re buying
✅ Stack it smart, store it safe
✅ Don’t assume a rick = a cord
With this knowledge, you’ll be better prepared, better heated, and less likely to get burned figuratively or literally.
