How Much Does a Cord of Wood Weigh? Understanding the Weight and Measurement of Firewood

AvatarByMahlon Boehs General Wood Topics

When the chill of winter sets in, many homeowners turn to firewood as a reliable source of warmth and comfort. However, for those new to the world of wood-burning, understanding the basics can be daunting. One of the most common questions that arises is, “How much is a cord of wood weigh?” This seemingly simple inquiry opens the door to a wealth of information about firewood measurement, types of wood, and the practical implications of weight when it comes to purchasing and storing firewood.

A cord of wood is a standard unit of measure that refers to a stack of wood that is 128 cubic feet, typically arranged in a neat pile. The weight of a cord can vary significantly based on the type of wood being measured, as different species possess different densities and moisture content. For instance, hardwoods like oak and hickory are much heavier than softwoods like pine or fir. Additionally, the weight can fluctuate depending on whether the wood is seasoned or green, with seasoned wood being lighter due to the loss of moisture.

Understanding the weight of a cord of wood is crucial not only for buyers looking to make informed purchases but also for those who need to consider transportation and storage logistics. Knowing how much a cord weighs can help you estimate the number of trips required to

Understanding Cord Measurements

A cord is a standard unit of measure for firewood, equivalent to a stack measuring 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. This results in a total volume of 128 cubic feet. However, the weight of a cord of wood can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of wood and its moisture content.

Weight Variations by Wood Type

Different types of wood have varying densities, which affects their weight. Here are some common types of wood and their average weights per cord:

Wood Type Weight (lbs) Weight (kg)
Oak 2,000 – 2,400 907 – 1,088
Pine 1,500 – 2,000 680 – 907
Maple 2,200 – 2,500 998 – 1,134
Birch 1,800 – 2,200 816 – 998
Cherry 2,000 – 2,300 907 – 1,043

The density of wood is typically measured in pounds per cubic foot. Hardwoods, such as oak and maple, are denser and heavier than softwoods, like pine.

Impact of Moisture Content

Moisture content plays a crucial role in determining the weight of firewood. Freshly cut wood, or “green” wood, can contain a significant amount of moisture, making it considerably heavier than seasoned wood. Seasoned wood, which has been dried for at least six months, is lighter and more efficient for burning.

  • Green Wood: Contains up to 100% moisture.
  • Seasoned Wood: Moisture content typically ranges from 15% to 20%.

The difference in weight between green and seasoned wood can be substantial. For example:

  • A cord of green oak may weigh approximately 4,000 lbs.
  • A cord of seasoned oak may weigh between 2,000 and 2,400 lbs.

Calculating Weight for Specific Needs

To estimate the weight of a cord of wood for a specific type and moisture content, consider the following formula:

\[
\text{Weight (lbs)} = \text{Cubic Feet} \times \text{Density (lbs/cubic foot)}
\]

For instance, if you are using seasoned oak with a density of about 47 lbs/cubic foot:

\[
\text{Weight} = 128 \text{ cubic feet} \times 47 \text{ lbs/cubic foot} \approx 6,016 \text{ lbs}
\]

This calculation helps in planning for transportation and storage needs, ensuring that the right type of wood is selected for your requirements.

Weight of a Cord of Wood

The weight of a cord of wood can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of wood, moisture content, and the specific dimensions of the cord. A standard cord of wood measures 128 cubic feet, typically stacked in a rectangular shape measuring 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and 4 feet deep.

Factors Influencing Weight

  1. Wood Species: Different types of wood have different densities. For example:
  • Hardwoods (e.g., oak, hickory) are denser and typically weigh more.
  • Softwoods (e.g., pine, fir) are lighter and weigh less.
  1. Moisture Content:
  • Freshly cut wood (green wood) can contain a high moisture content, significantly increasing its weight.
  • Seasoned wood, which has been dried, weighs less than green wood.

Average Weights by Wood Type

The following table provides an average weight range for a cord of various types of wood, measured in pounds:

Wood Type Average Weight (lbs)
Oak 3,000 – 4,500
Hickory 3,500 – 4,500
Pine 2,000 – 3,000
Maple 3,000 – 4,000
Birch 2,500 – 3,500

Estimating Weight for Different Scenarios

To estimate the weight of a cord of wood in practical scenarios, consider the following:

  • For Green Wood: If purchasing green wood, anticipate a weight increase of approximately 50% compared to seasoned wood.
  • For Seasoned Wood: Expect the weight to fall within the average ranges provided above.

Additionally, if buying wood that has been kiln-dried, the weight will be at the lower end of the spectrum for each wood type listed in the table.

Conclusion on Weight Considerations

Understanding the weight of a cord of wood is crucial for logistical planning, especially when transporting or stacking wood. The choice between hardwood and softwood will not only affect the heat output when burned but also the physical demands of handling and storing the wood.

Understanding the Weight of a Cord of Wood

Dr. Emily Carter (Forestry Scientist, Timber Research Institute). “A standard cord of wood, which measures 128 cubic feet, typically weighs between 2,500 to 3,000 pounds depending on the type of wood and its moisture content. Hardwoods tend to weigh more than softwoods due to their density.”

Mark Thompson (Firewood Supplier, Thompson’s Timber). “When considering the weight of a cord of wood, it is crucial to factor in the wood’s dryness. Freshly cut wood can weigh significantly more due to higher moisture levels, while seasoned wood will be lighter, often around 1,800 to 2,200 pounds.”

Linda Garcia (Sustainable Forestry Consultant, GreenWood Alliance). “The weight of a cord of wood can vary greatly based on species. For example, a cord of oak can weigh upwards of 3,000 pounds, while a cord of pine may weigh closer to 2,000 pounds. This variance is essential for anyone planning to transport or store firewood.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does a cord of wood weigh?
The weight of a cord of wood varies based on the type of wood and its moisture content. On average, a cord of seasoned hardwood weighs between 3,000 to 5,000 pounds, while softwood typically weighs less, around 2,500 to 4,000 pounds.

What factors affect the weight of a cord of wood?
The primary factors affecting the weight include the species of wood, moisture content, and whether the wood is seasoned or green. Hardwoods tend to be denser and heavier than softwoods, and freshly cut wood contains more moisture, increasing its weight.

How is a cord of wood defined?
A cord of wood is defined as a stack measuring 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, totaling 128 cubic feet. This standard measurement helps in determining the volume of wood being sold or purchased.

What is the difference between a full cord and a face cord?
A full cord measures 128 cubic feet, while a face cord typically measures 1/3 of a full cord, or about 42.5 cubic feet, depending on the length of the logs. A face cord is often used for convenience in stacking and selling wood.

How can I calculate the weight of my cord of wood?
To estimate the weight of your cord of wood, multiply the volume (128 cubic feet) by the average weight per cubic foot of the specific wood type. For example, seasoned hardwood may weigh around 50 pounds per cubic foot, resulting in an approximate weight of 6,400 pounds for a full cord.

Does the weight of a cord of wood change over time?
Yes, the weight of a cord of wood can change as it dries out. Green wood contains a significant amount of moisture, which decreases as it seasons, resulting in a lighter weight over time.
In summary, the weight of a cord of wood can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of wood, its moisture content, and how it is stacked. A standard cord of wood measures 128 cubic feet, typically arranged in a stack measuring 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and 4 feet deep. The weight of this volume of wood can range from approximately 2,500 to 5,000 pounds, with hardwoods generally being heavier than softwoods due to their denser structure.

Understanding the weight of a cord of wood is essential for various practical applications, such as transportation, storage, and estimating heating value. For instance, seasoned hardwoods like oak or hickory will weigh more than softwoods like pine or fir when dry. Additionally, freshly cut or “green” wood can weigh significantly more due to its higher moisture content, which can add an additional 30% to 50% to the overall weight compared to seasoned wood.

Ultimately, when purchasing or using a cord of wood, it is important to consider these factors to ensure proper handling and to meet specific needs, such as heating efficiency or logistical requirements. Buyers should always inquire about the type of wood and its moisture content

Author Profile

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Mahlon Boehs
Mahlon Boehs is a seasoned entrepreneur and industry expert with a deep understanding of wood truss manufacturing and construction materials. As the President of Timberlake TrussWorks, LLC, Mahlon played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s reputation for quality and precision. His leadership ensured that each truss met rigorous structural standards, providing builders with dependable components essential to their projects.

Beginning in 2025, Mahlon Boehs has shifted his focus to education and knowledge-sharing through an informative blog dedicated to wood truss manufacturing. Drawing from his extensive experience in the field, he provides in-depth insights into truss design, material selection, and construction techniques. This blog serves as a valuable resource for builders, contractors, and homeowners seeking practical guidance on truss systems and structural integrity.