Regarding firewood, understanding the measurements and quantities involved for how much wood you’ll get when buying firewood is essential. One common question that arises is, how many pieces of wood in a face cord? The answer is not as straightforward as it may seem. The number of wood pieces in a full cord of wood can vary significantly depending on various factors.
A cord is a standard measurement used for kiln-dried firewood. It typically refers to a stack of wood that measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. This results in a total volume of 128 cubic feet. Within this volume, the amount of wood can vary depending on the size and shape of the wood pieces. A cord may contain two or three rows of stacked wood pieces, split to standard shorter lengths for fireplaces or stoves.
Also, different regions or sellers may use alternative measurements for a full cord of wood, like face cords, furnace cords, or bush cords, which may have different dimensions and volumes. In our guide, you can learn more about firewood measurements when purchasing wood for heating. By the end, you’ll better understand the average cord size and how the number of pieces of firewood varies based on wood species, moisture content, and stacking methods. (Learn How To Get Sticker Residue Off Wood)
How is Firewood Measured?
Regarding purchasing firewood, understanding the various measurements can ensure you get the best value for your money. We will show the intricacies of firewood measurement, including the cubic feet in a cord. Besides, the number of pieces in a cord, the weight of a cord, and how to verify the amount of wood you’ll be receiving can vary.
How Many Cubic Feet of Wood Is in a Cord?
A cord is an official measurement for a full cord of firewood in the United States. It represents a well-defined volume of wood, specifically 128 cubic feet. Imagine your own stack of firewood that measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. That stack would equate to one cord of firewood.
Cord Measurements Can Vary
While the answer to how much is a cord of firewood is 128 cubic feet, it’s crucial to know that the way firewood is stacked can vary how much wood is in a cord. Some sellers offer a stack of wood where more wood is packed loosely, resulting in a stack that appears larger than a standard cord.
How Many Pieces of Wood Does a Cord Contain?
Determining the exact number of pieces of wood in a cord can be challenging, as it depends on several factors, including the size of the logs and how they are cut. As a rough estimate, a cord of firewood typically contains around 400 to 500 pieces of wood, depending on the diameter of the logs.
How Much Does a Cord of Wood Weigh?
The weight of a full cord of wood can fluctuate based on the type of wood being used. On average, a cord of hardwood can weigh between 2,500 to 3,500 pounds, while a cord of softwood typically ranges from 1,800 to 2,500 pounds. (Learn How To Remove Wood Filler)
Note: Green wood is heavier than kiln-dried firewood by a considerable margin.
How Much Wood Will You Be Getting?
While a full cord of wood is the standard measurement, suppliers may also offer wood in smaller fractions, like a half-cord of wood or a quarter-cord. On average, the solid wood within a cord makes up about 85% of the total volume, while the remaining 15% comprises air space.
This means that when buying firewood, you can expect to receive roughly 108 cubic feet of solid wood in full cords.
Terms about a Cord
Understanding the various terms associated with cord measurements is essential.
Bush Cord
A bush cord is a term used to describe a cord of firewood. In terms of volume, it is comparable to a conventional cord, but the wood is stacked differently. A bush cord has wood stacked less precisely than a conventional cord. This implies wood can be oddly shaped or stacked, making it less consistent.
Running Cord
Running cord is another term used in firewood by retailers selling wood. A running cord is a measurement of dry wood stacked carelessly. It appears larger than a densely stacked cord but contains less wood. Airflow between logs improves seasoning with looser stacking. To ensure you receive the right amount of split firewood for your needs, you must know the running cord measurement when buying a full cord of wood.
Sheldon Cord
Sheldon cord is another firewood measurement term. This term refers to a specific amount of firewood and is widespread in some locations. Sheldon cords are smaller and contain less wood. When using this term, it’s essential to clarify the specific measurement with the vendor.
Stove Cord
The term stove or furnace cord is used to describe a specific cord of firewood for stoves. Stoves require split wood cut to a specific length. Thus, a stove cord is wood cut to 12–16 inches to fit and burn efficiently in a stove. This measurement ensures firewood is stove-compatible, optimizing heat output and burning smoothly.
How Many Face Cords Are in a Cord?
A cord is the standard measurement for firewood, but you might also encounter the term “face cord.” While a cord comprises a well-defined volume of wood, equivalent to 128 cubic feet, a face cord is slightly different. A face cord typically refers to three stacks of firewood that measure an average size of 8 feet long and 4 feet high, and depth varies based on the length of the logs used. (Read Concrete Release Agent For Wood)
Depending on the supplier, the depth can range from 12 to 24 inches. It’s important to note that a face cord is not as standardized as a cord, and the volume of wood it contains can vary.
Note: Third cords comprise two rows of 4 feet tall and 4 feet wide, full of pieces of firewood.
One-third of dry wood and half cords often comprise shorter lengths, yet this depends on the seller.
How Much Firewood is in a Rick?
The term “rick” is another common measurement used for measuring firewood. A rick is smaller than a cord and can vary in size depending on the region. However, a typical rick can be roughly one-third cord logs compared to a full cord of wood.
How Much Firewood Is in a Pickup Truck Load?
For those with larger firewood needs, how many cords of wood can a pickup carry? The amount of firewood in a pickup truck load can vary depending on the size of the truck’s bed and how it is stacked.
A standard full-size pickup truck bed typically has dimensions of approximately 8 feet long, 5 feet wide, and 1.5 feet deep. Assuming the firewood is tightly stacked. This would amount to approximately 60 to 80 cubic feet of firewood, depending on the stacking method and if you have shorter or longer logs.
How Much Firewood Do I Need?
When enjoying the warmth and coziness of a crackling fire, one of the most common questions is, “How many cords of wood do I need?” Whether planning a campfire, fuel for your fireplace, or preparing for winter, it’s crucial to understand the amount of wood in a cord of wood at the standard length.
Unless you are heating the home, you may last on a half cord of wood, yet it could cost you a higher price than a full cord of wood.
Campfire or Bonfire: Perfecting Your Outdoor Gathering
For a typical campfire or bonfire that lasts for a few hours, a general guideline is to have a stack of firewood that measures approximately 2 to 3 feet in diameter and reaches a height of about 3 feet. This size should provide enough wood to sustain a cozy fire and keep your guests comfortably warm throughout the evening.
Fireplace: Creating a Welcoming Ambiance
Generally, a standard fireplace will require approximately 3 to 5 medium-sized logs per hour. This estimate assumes an average burn time of 2 to 3 hours per fire and provides enough wood to maintain a steady and comfortable flame.
Preparing for the Winter: Staying Warm and Cozy
Winter brings chilly temperatures and the need for a reliable heat source to keep our homes warm and comfortable. As you prepare for winter, estimating the quantity of firewood required becomes paramount. The size of your home, the insulation levels, and the efficiency of your heating system will all impact the amount of firewood needed to keep your household cozy during the colder months.
As a general guideline, a well-insulated home with an efficient heating system will require approximately 3 to 5 cords of firewood for the entire winter season. This estimate ensures ample wood supply to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the house and account for unexpected weather changes.
How to Store the Firewood
Regarding firewood, proper storage is vital to maintaining its quality and ensuring it lasts throughout the seasons. Whether you rely on firewood for heating or enjoy cozy fireside evenings, knowing how to store firewood correctly is essential.
Choosing the Right Storage Location
Selecting the appropriate storage location for your firewood is the first step to successful storage. Ideally, you want to choose a spot that is well-ventilated, protected from excessive moisture, and quickly accessible.
Arranging Firewood for Airflow
Proper airflow is crucial for drying and seasoning firewood effectively. When stacking firewood, ensure the pieces are neatly arranged, leaving a space between them to allow air to circulate.
Protecting Firewood from Moisture
Moisture is one of the most significant enemies of firewood. It hinders the drying process and can lead to mold growth and decay.
Allowing Sufficient Seasoning Time
Properly seasoned firewood is essential for efficient burning and optimal heat output. Seasoning involves reducing the moisture content of the wood by allowing it to dry naturally. (Read Can You Use Clorox Wipes On Wood)
Rotate the Woodpile
To maintain a steady supply of seasoned firewood, rotating your woodpile’s a good practice. Using the oldest wood first ensures the woodpile remains fresh and adequately seasoned. This rotation system helps prevent any pieces of wood from becoming excessively seasoned or deteriorating because of prolonged exposure to the elements.
Monitoring Moisture Content
Monitoring the moisture content of your firewood is essential for efficient burning and avoiding issues like excessive smoke or creosote buildup in your chimney.
Invest in a moisture meter, a handy tool that allows you to measure the moisture content of the wood. Ideally, firewood should have a moisture content of around 15% to 20% for optimal burning.
