When buying firewood, you may come across terms like “cord,” “rick,” or even “face cord.” While a cord is a standardized unit of measurement, a rick is a more regional, less formal term that can cause confusion. Understanding the relationship between the two is essential to avoid being short-changed or overpaying for your firewood. So, let’s break it down: how many ricks are there in a cord of wood?
What Is a Cord of Wood?
A cord is the official and legal measurement for stacked firewood in the U.S. It is defined as:
- 4 feet high × 4 feet deep × 8 feet long
- Totaling 128 cubic feet of tightly stacked wood (including air gaps)
This is the gold standard measurement that most firewood sellers and regulatory bodies use to ensure fairness and consistency.
What Is a Rick of Wood?
A rick of wood is not a fixed measurement but rather a face cord, which refers to the front-facing portion of a full cord. A rick is usually:
- 4 feet high × 8 feet long × log length (commonly 16 inches)
This makes a typical rick one-third of a full cord when the logs are 16 inches long (since 16 inches is one-third of 48 inches, or 4 feet—the depth of a full cord).
🔢 Standard Calculation:
1 Cord = 3 Ricks (when wood is cut to 16 inches in length)
Why the Number of Ricks Can Vary
The number of ricks in a cord depends entirely on the length of each log in the stack:
| Log Length | Depth of Stack | Ricks per Cord |
| 16 inches | 1/3 of 4 feet | 3 |
| 24 inches | 1/2 of 4 feet | 2 |
| 12 inches | 1/4 of 4 feet | 4 |
So if you buy a rick with 24-inch logs, you’re getting half a cord, not one-third.
Why This Matters When Buying Firewood
- Volume Clarity: Not all ricks are equal. Always ask for the log length to understand how much wood you’re actually getting.
- Price Comparisons: Some sellers may price by the rick and others by the cord. Knowing the conversion helps you calculate the true value.
- Delivery Expectations: If you’re expecting a full cord but only receive one rick of 16″ logs, you’re getting just one-third the amount.
Tips Before Buying Firewood
- Always ask for dimensions—don’t rely solely on the term “rick.”
- Check local regulations, as some states require sellers to list firewood in cords or fractions of a cord.
- Measure the stack yourself to confirm you’re receiving the correct volume.
- Stack it tightly to minimize gaps and ensure accurate measurement.
Conclusion
In summary, a cord of wood contains three ricks when logs are cut to 16 inches. However, this number can vary based on the length of the firewood. Always clarify dimensions and convert to cubic feet when in doubt. Being informed ensures you get what you pay for and helps you make smarter firewood buying decisions.
