The size of a rick of wood isn't standardized, leading to considerable confusion. Unlike neatly packaged bundles of firewood, a rick is a more rustic, traditional measurement, and its dimensions can vary wildly depending on region, supplier, and even the individual stacking the wood. This lack of consistency often leads to disputes and inaccurate estimations. Let's delve into the complexities of rick sizes and how to navigate this seemingly simple question.
What is a Rick of Wood, Anyway?
Before we get into dimensions, it's crucial to understand what constitutes a rick. A rick of wood is essentially a stack of firewood, typically cordwood, arranged in a rectangular pile. It's a volume measurement, not a precise weight, meaning the actual amount of wood can vary significantly based on wood density and moisture content. Think of it as a loose, informally stacked pile compared to the tightly packed and uniformly sized cords of wood you might see at a commercial firewood supplier.
How Big is a "Standard" Rick?
There's no universally agreed-upon standard for a rick's size. However, a common approximation is a stack 4 feet wide, 8 feet long, and 4 feet high. This results in a volume of 128 cubic feet. But, and this is a big but, this is just a guideline. Many ricks are substantially smaller or, less frequently, larger than this. The variations stem from a few key factors:
- Wood Species: Different species have varying densities. A rick of dense oak will contain more wood by weight than a rick of lighter aspen.
- Wood Length: The length of the individual pieces of wood directly impacts how tightly they can be stacked, affecting the overall volume.
- Stacking Technique: A loosely stacked rick will contain less wood than one that is meticulously stacked with minimal gaps.
What are the Different Sizes of Ricks?
Because of the lack of standardization, you may encounter varying sizes, described using terms like:
- Half-rick: Roughly half the size of a "standard" rick.
- Face cord: This is a specific measurement: 4 feet high by 8 feet long, but only 16 inches (one-third of a cord) deep. This is a common measurement used to ensure fair pricing.
How to Determine the Actual Size of a Rick?
To avoid disappointment or overpaying, always clarify the rick's dimensions with the seller before purchasing. Ask for the specific width, length, and height of the stack. If possible, measure it yourself before hauling it away. If the seller uses a "standard" rick, be aware that this is not a truly standardized measurement.
What's the Difference Between a Rick and a Cord?
A cord of wood is a much more standardized unit of measurement. A standard cord is a stack of wood 4 feet wide, 4 feet high, and 8 feet long (128 cubic feet). Unlike a rick, a cord is meant to be tightly stacked, minimizing gaps. This provides a more reliable indication of the quantity of wood being purchased.
How Much Wood is in a Rick?
This depends entirely on the rick's size and the type of wood. A rick based on the approximate "standard" dimensions could contain anywhere from 1/2 to a full cord of wood, or even less depending on how loosely the wood is stacked and how much air space is between pieces. Don't assume a specific volume or weight without clear dimensions.
How Many Ricks Make a Cord?
Due to the variability of rick size, this question doesn't have a simple answer. It could take anywhere from 1 to 2 ricks to equal a cord.
Understanding the lack of standardization and the various factors that influence the size of a rick is key to avoid misunderstandings when buying firewood. Always verify the dimensions and consider a more consistent unit like a face cord or cord for a clearer measurement.
