How Much Wood Is Really In a Cord of Firewood?

AvatarByMahlon Boehs Firewood & Home Heating

When the chill of winter sets in and the nights grow longer, many people turn to firewood as a reliable source of warmth and comfort. However, if you’re new to the world of firewood, you might find yourself asking, “How much wood is in a cord of firewood?” This seemingly simple question opens the door to a wealth of knowledge about firewood measurement, types, and usage. Understanding the concept of a cord and its significance can help you make informed decisions when purchasing firewood, ensuring you get the best value for your money and the most efficient heat for your home.

A cord of firewood is a standardized unit of measurement that describes a stack of wood, typically measuring 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. This measurement translates to 128 cubic feet of wood, but the actual amount of usable wood can vary based on how the logs are cut and stacked. Knowing how much wood is in a cord can help you assess your heating needs and plan your firewood supply for the colder months ahead.

In addition to understanding the quantity, it’s essential to consider the type of wood you choose, as different species have varying heat outputs and burn characteristics. Whether you’re looking for hardwoods that provide long-lasting heat or softwoods that ignite

Understanding a Cord of Firewood

A cord of firewood is a unit of measurement that quantifies the volume of stacked firewood. It is defined as a stack measuring 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, which totals 128 cubic feet. This measurement is critical for both buyers and sellers to ensure they are engaging in fair trade practices.

When purchasing firewood, it is essential to understand how wood is measured and the implications of varying wood types and sizes. Firewood can be sold in different forms, such as:

  • Full cords
  • Half cords
  • Face cords

A face cord, for instance, typically measures 4 feet high by 8 feet long but varies in depth, usually being 16 inches. This means a face cord is not a full cord, as it only accounts for a portion of the total volume.

Types of Firewood

Different types of firewood can affect both the volume and the heat output. Hardwoods and softwoods are the primary categories, each offering unique properties:

Type of Wood Density (lbs/cubic foot) Heat Output (BTUs per cord) Common Examples
Hardwood 40-60 25 million Oak, Maple, Birch
Softwood 20-40 15 million Pine, Fir, Cedar

Hardwoods are denser and typically burn longer, making them ideal for heating. In contrast, softwoods ignite quickly and are often used for kindling or in situations where a quick, hot fire is desired.

Factors Affecting the Amount of Wood in a Cord

Several factors can influence the actual amount of wood contained in a cord, including:

  • Wood Size: Variations in log length and diameter can affect how tightly the wood is stacked.
  • Moisture Content: Freshly cut wood (green wood) has a higher moisture content, which can affect weight and energy output. Seasoned wood (dried) is more efficient for burning.
  • Stacking Method: The way wood is stacked can lead to variations in volume. Loose stacking can create air gaps, while tightly packed wood will occupy a more uniform space.

These factors are crucial for consumers to consider when purchasing firewood to ensure they are receiving the correct amount for their needs.

Understanding a Cord of Firewood

A cord of firewood is a standard measurement used primarily in North America to quantify the volume of firewood. The dimensions of a full cord are defined as 128 cubic feet. This measurement can be visualized as a stack of wood that is 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long.

Measurement Details

To better understand how much wood constitutes a cord, consider the following breakdown:

  • Dimensions: 4 feet (height) x 4 feet (width) x 8 feet (length)
  • Volume: 128 cubic feet
  • Weight: The weight of a cord can vary significantly depending on the type of wood. For instance:
  • Hardwoods (like oak or hickory) can weigh between 3,000 to 5,000 pounds per cord.
  • Softwoods (like pine or fir) typically weigh between 2,000 to 3,000 pounds per cord.

Types of Firewood and Their Characteristics

Different types of firewood serve various purposes, and their heat output and burning duration can differ considerably. Below is a comparative table of common firewood types:

Wood Type Heat Output (BTUs per Cord) Burning Characteristics
Oak 24 million Long-lasting, steady heat
Maple 23 million Good heat, moderate burn time
Birch 20 million Burns quickly, pleasant aroma
Pine 16 million Burns fast, produces more smoke

Calculating the Amount of Wood in a Cord

When purchasing firewood, it’s essential to ensure that you receive a full cord. However, wood is often sold in different forms:

  • Face Cord: A face cord is typically 1/3 of a full cord, measuring 4 feet high by 8 feet wide, with the depth depending on the length of the logs (usually 16 inches). This results in approximately 42.67 cubic feet.
  • Rick: The term “rick” can vary regionally, but it generally refers to a stack of wood that is similar in measurement to a face cord.

To convert these measurements, consider the following:

  • 1 full cord = 128 cubic feet
  • 1 face cord (with 16-inch logs) = 42.67 cubic feet
  • 3 face cords = 1 full cord

Storage and Seasoning of Firewood

Proper storage and seasoning of firewood are critical for optimal burning efficiency. Here are best practices:

  • Seasoning Time: Firewood should be seasoned for at least 6 months to a year to reduce moisture content.
  • Storage Location: Store wood off the ground in a dry, sheltered area to prevent moisture absorption.
  • Air Circulation: Stack wood loosely to allow for airflow, which aids in the drying process.

By understanding these aspects of a cord of firewood, users can make informed decisions about purchasing, storing, and utilizing firewood effectively.

Understanding the Volume of Firewood: Expert Insights

Emily Carter (Forestry Specialist, Timberland Resources). “A cord of firewood is a standard measurement that equals 128 cubic feet. This volume typically consists of stacked wood that measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. Understanding this measurement is crucial for both consumers and suppliers to ensure proper delivery and usage.”

James Thompson (Firewood Distributor, EcoHeat Solutions). “When purchasing firewood, it is essential to confirm that you are receiving a full cord. Some sellers may offer ‘face cords,’ which are smaller and can lead to confusion. A full cord is the most economical choice for heating purposes, as it provides a substantial amount of wood for extended use.”

Linda Martinez (Sustainable Energy Consultant, Green Living Magazine). “The volume of a cord of firewood is not just a number; it represents the energy potential for heating. A cord can provide a significant amount of BTUs, depending on the type of wood. For instance, hardwoods generally yield more heat than softwoods, making it essential to consider both the quantity and quality of firewood.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much wood is in a cord of firewood?
A cord of firewood is a unit of measurement that equals 128 cubic feet. It typically measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long when stacked.

What are the dimensions of a full cord of firewood?
A full cord of firewood measures 4 feet in height, 4 feet in width, and 8 feet in length. This configuration provides a total volume of 128 cubic feet.

How many pieces of firewood are in a cord?
The number of pieces in a cord can vary significantly based on the size and type of wood. However, a typical cord may contain around 600 to 800 pieces of split firewood.

What is the difference between a cord and a face cord?
A cord is 128 cubic feet, while a face cord is typically one-third of a cord, measuring 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but only 16 inches deep, resulting in a volume of approximately 42.7 cubic feet.

How should firewood be stacked to measure a cord?
Firewood should be stacked neatly in a way that allows for air circulation. It should be stacked in a rectangular shape, ensuring that the ends are visible and the stack is stable.

Is it important to buy seasoned firewood?
Yes, seasoned firewood, which has been dried for at least six months, burns more efficiently and produces less smoke compared to unseasoned wood, making it a better choice for heating and cooking.
A cord of firewood is a standard measurement used to quantify the volume of stacked firewood. It is defined as a stack measuring 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, which totals 128 cubic feet. Understanding this measurement is crucial for consumers, as it helps in determining the amount of wood needed for heating and other purposes, ensuring they receive the correct quantity when purchasing firewood.

When considering how much wood is in a cord, it is essential to note that the type of wood and its moisture content can affect the weight and heating efficiency of the firewood. Different species of wood have varying densities, which can influence how much energy they produce when burned. Therefore, consumers should not only focus on the volume of wood but also on the quality and type of firewood they are purchasing to optimize their heating needs.

Moreover, it is beneficial to understand the concept of “face cord,” which is another common term in firewood sales. A face cord typically measures 4 feet high by 8 feet long, but the depth can vary, usually resulting in less wood than a full cord. Consumers should be aware of these distinctions to avoid confusion and ensure they are getting the right amount of firewood for

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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.