What Is the Measurement of a Face Cord of Wood and Why Does It Matter?

When it comes to stocking up on firewood for the chilly months ahead or planning a cozy outdoor gathering, understanding the various measurements of wood is essential. Among these measurements, the term “face cord” often comes up, but what exactly does it mean? For those who are new to the world of firewood or simply looking to clarify their knowledge, grasping the concept of a face cord can make a significant difference in how much wood you actually need and how it is priced.

A face cord is a specific unit of measurement used to quantify firewood, typically defined by the dimensions of a stack that is 4 feet high and 8 feet long, with the depth varying based on the length of the logs. This means that the actual volume of wood can vary depending on how the logs are cut. Understanding this measurement is crucial for anyone looking to purchase firewood, as it allows for better comparisons and ensures you’re getting the right amount for your needs.

In addition to the face cord, there are other terms like “full cord” and “rick” that often create confusion among buyers. Each of these measurements has its own nuances, and knowing them can help you make informed decisions when it comes to buying firewood. As we delve deeper into this topic, we will

Understanding the Face Cord

A face cord of wood is a commonly used measurement for firewood. It refers to a stack of wood that is one cord high and one cord wide, but only one-third of a cord deep. The standard size of a full cord of wood is 128 cubic feet, which consists of a stack that measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. Therefore, a face cord represents a volume of approximately 42.67 cubic feet.

Dimensions of a Face Cord

To clarify the dimensions, the face cord is often described in terms of its height, width, and depth:

• Height: 4 feet
• Width: 8 feet
• Depth: 16 inches (or 1/3 of the standard 4-foot depth of a full cord)

This means a face cord occupies a volume of:

Measurement	Value
Height (ft)	4
Width (ft)	8
Depth (ft)	1.33
Volume (cubic feet)	42.67

Variations in Wood Stacking

The way wood is stacked can influence the amount of wood in a face cord. There are two primary methods of stacking wood:

• Stacked Neatly: When wood is stacked neatly, with minimal gaps, it maximizes the quantity of wood within the face cord, making it a more efficient measurement.

• Loose Stacking: If the wood is not stacked tightly, this can lead to air gaps, resulting in less wood volume than expected, even if the physical dimensions appear correct.

Usage and Importance

Understanding the measurement of a face cord is essential for several reasons:

• Buying Firewood: When purchasing firewood, knowing the dimensions of a face cord allows consumers to make informed decisions and compare prices effectively.
• Storage Considerations: For those who store firewood, understanding how much space a face cord occupies can help in planning storage solutions.
• Fuel Efficiency: Recognizing the volume of firewood available helps users gauge how long their supply will last based on consumption rates.

In summary, a face cord is a useful measurement that provides clarity and consistency in the buying, selling, and storing of firewood.

Understanding a Face Cord of Wood

A face cord of wood is a common measurement used in the sale and purchase of firewood. It refers to a stack of wood that is measured based on its face or front view, rather than its total volume.

Dimensions of a Face Cord

A face cord is typically defined by the following dimensions:

• Length: 8 feet
• Height: 4 feet
• Depth: 16 inches (which is the standard width of a piece of firewood)

This means that a face cord consists of a stack of firewood that is 8 feet long, 4 feet high, and 16 inches deep.

Volume Calculation

To calculate the volume of a face cord, it is essential to convert the dimensions into cubic feet:

• Volume = Length × Height × Depth
• Volume = 8 feet × 4 feet × (16 inches ÷ 12 inches/foot)
• Volume = 8 × 4 × 1.33 = 42.67 cubic feet

Thus, a face cord of wood occupies approximately 42.67 cubic feet.

Comparison with Other Measurements

In the firewood market, several other measurements are often used. Here is a comparison between different wood measurements:

Measurement	Dimensions (L × H × D)	Approximate Volume (cubic feet)
Face Cord	8 ft × 4 ft × 1.33 ft	42.67
Full Cord	4 ft × 4 ft × 8 ft	128
Half Cord	4 ft × 4 ft × 4 ft	64

Understanding these differences is crucial for buyers to ensure they receive the correct amount of wood for their needs.

Variations and Considerations

When purchasing a face cord, consider the following:

• Wood Type: Different types of wood burn differently, affecting efficiency and heat output.
• Stacking Method: The way wood is stacked can affect the perceived volume. Properly stacked wood will have air spaces that can reduce the total amount of usable wood.
• Moisture Content: The moisture content of the wood affects burning efficiency. Seasoned wood is preferable for optimal burning.

Regional Differences

The definition and use of a face cord can vary by region. Some areas may use different measurements or terms. It is advisable to clarify with local suppliers to ensure a mutual understanding of what constitutes a face cord in that area.

Understanding the Dimensions of a Face Cord of Wood

Jessica Harmon (Timber Measurement Specialist, National Wood Association). “A face cord of wood is defined as a stack that measures 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and 1 foot deep. This measurement is crucial for both sellers and buyers to ensure clarity in transactions involving firewood.”

Michael Trent (Forestry Expert, Sustainable Timber Solutions). “When purchasing firewood, it is essential to understand that a face cord is not a full cord, which measures 4 feet by 4 feet by 8 feet. A face cord provides a more manageable option for consumers who may not require a full cord for heating.”

Linda Cheng (Firewood Retailer, Eco-Friendly Firewood Co.). “In the firewood industry, the face cord is a standard unit of measure that helps customers gauge the amount of wood they are buying. It is particularly popular among homeowners who need wood for fireplaces or wood stoves.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a face cord of wood?
A face cord of wood is a unit of measurement for firewood that measures 4 feet high by 8 feet long, with a depth of 16 inches. It typically consists of split logs stacked in a rectangular formation.

How much wood is in a face cord?
A face cord contains approximately 1/3 of a full cord of wood, which is equivalent to about 42.1 cubic feet. The exact volume can vary depending on the size and arrangement of the logs.

What is the difference between a face cord and a full cord?
A full cord measures 4 feet high by 4 feet wide by 8 feet long, totaling 128 cubic feet. In contrast, a face cord is only 16 inches deep, making it less than a full cord in volume.

How do I calculate the amount of wood in a face cord?
To calculate the amount of wood in a face cord, multiply the height (4 feet) by the length (8 feet) and the depth (1.33 feet, which is 16 inches converted to feet), resulting in approximately 42.7 cubic feet.

Is a face cord suitable for heating?
Yes, a face cord is suitable for heating, particularly for smaller fireplaces or wood stoves. It provides a manageable amount of wood for regular use without the need for extensive storage.

Can I buy a face cord of wood from retailers?
Many retailers and firewood suppliers offer face cords for sale. It is advisable to confirm the size and quality of the wood before purchasing to ensure it meets your heating needs.
A face cord of wood is a specific measurement used primarily in the sale of firewood. It is defined as a stack of wood that measures 4 feet high by 8 feet long, with the depth of the stack being determined by the length of the logs, which are typically cut to 16 inches. This measurement allows for a standardized way to quantify firewood, making it easier for consumers to compare prices and quantities when purchasing wood for heating or other uses.

It is important to note that a face cord is not equivalent to a full cord of wood, which measures 4 feet high by 8 feet long by 4 feet deep, totaling 128 cubic feet. A face cord, therefore, contains only a third of the volume of a full cord, depending on the length of the logs. This distinction is crucial for consumers to understand to ensure they are receiving the correct amount of wood for their needs.

In summary, when purchasing firewood, understanding the measurement of a face cord is essential. It provides a clear and standardized way to evaluate the quantity of wood being bought. Consumers should always inquire about the dimensions and volume of the wood being offered to avoid any misunderstandings regarding the amount of firewood they are purchasing.

Author Profile

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.