If you use firewood for heating or outdoor purposes, you’ve probably heard the term “rick of wood.” While it’s a common measurement in many parts of the U.S., especially in the Midwest and South, it often leaves people confused—especially when trying to determine its weight. The weight of a rick of wood can vary significantly based on several factors, including wood type, moisture content, and stacking method. In this article, we’ll break down what a rick is, what affects its weight, and how much you can expect it to weigh on average.
What Is a Rick of Wood?
A rick of wood refers to a stack of firewood that is 4 feet high and 8 feet long. However, the key detail lies in the depth of the stack, which depends on the length of each log. Most firewood pieces are cut to 16 inches in length. Since a full cord of wood measures 4 feet deep (4’ x 4’ x 8’), a rick with 16-inch logs is essentially one-third of a cord.
1 Rick (16″ logs) = 4’ high × 8’ long × ~16” deep = ~42.67 cubic feet
Average Weight of a Rick of Wood
The weight of a rick of wood is not fixed. It depends on the following major factors:
- Type of Wood
- Moisture Content (Green vs. Seasoned)
- Stacking Density (Loose vs. Tight Stack)
Here’s a general estimate based on popular wood types:
| Wood Type | Green (lbs/rick) | Seasoned (lbs/rick) |
| Oak | 500 – 660 lbs | 400 – 550 lbs |
| Hickory | 600 – 700 lbs | 500 – 600 lbs |
| Maple | 450 – 600 lbs | 350 – 500 lbs |
| Pine | 350 – 500 lbs | 250 – 400 lbs |
| Ash | 450 – 600 lbs | 350 – 500 lbs |
Note: These weights are rough estimates and can vary depending on local climate and exact wood species.
Green vs. Seasoned Wood
- Green wood is freshly cut and still contains a high amount of water, making it significantly heavier.
- Seasoned wood has been dried (naturally or in a kiln) for 6 months to a year, making it lighter and better for burning due to higher efficiency and less smoke.
Why Knowing the Weight Matters
Understanding how much a rick of wood weighs can help in:
- Transportation: Ensure your vehicle or trailer can safely haul the load.
- Stacking: Know how much physical space and strength you’ll need.
- Purchasing Decisions: Some sellers price by weight; others by volume. Knowing the weight helps you compare prices and value accurately.
Conclusion
A rick of wood typically weighs between 250 and 700 pounds, depending on the type of wood and its moisture content. Always clarify the wood species and whether it’s seasoned or green when purchasing, as this impacts not just weight but also burning quality and cost. If you’re planning to transport or store it, these weight details will help you make smart, safe, and efficient decisions.
