When it comes to purchasing firewood, understanding measurements can save you money and ensure you’re getting what you paid for. A face cord is one of the most common yet confusing terms you’ll encounter in the firewood market. But what exactly constitutes a face cord, and how much wood should you expect to receive?
We’ve spent years helping homeowners navigate firewood purchases, and we know how frustrating it can be when suppliers use inconsistent terminology. In this guide, we’ll clarify exactly how much wood makes up a face cord, how it differs from a full cord, and why knowing this distinction matters for your heating needs. Whether you’re stocking up for winter or buying for occasional fireplace use, this knowledge will help you become a more informed buyer.
What Is a Face Cord of Wood?
A face cord of wood is a partial measurement of firewood that equals one-third of a full cord. This term refers to a stack of wood measuring 4 feet high by 8 feet long, but with varying depth depending on the length of the individual logs.
Standard Dimensions of a Face Cord
The standard dimensions of a face cord include a height of 4 feet and a length of 8 feet, while the depth varies based on the log length. Most face cords contain logs cut to 16 inches in depth, though this measurement can range from 12 to 24 inches depending on the supplier. When logs are precisely 16 inches long, three face cords equal one full cord of wood. Face cords with 12-inch logs require four stacks to equal a full cord, while those with 24-inch logs need only two stacks to make a complete cord. These dimensional variations make understanding the exact size of your purchased wood crucial for accurate price comparisons.
Face Cord vs. Full Cord Comparison
Face cords contain significantly less wood than full cords, with approximately one-third the volume when using standard 16-inch logs. A full cord measures 4 feet high by 8 feet long by 4 feet deep, totaling 128 cubic feet of stacked wood. In contrast, a face cord with 16-inch logs contains about 42.7 cubic feet of wood. This substantial difference impacts both pricing and heating capacity – full cords typically provide three times more burn time than face cords. The pricing structure reflects this difference, with face cords generally costing around one-third to one-half the price of a full cord, though rates vary by region and wood type. Many suppliers offer both measurements to accommodate different customer needs, from occasional fireplace users to primary wood-heat homes.
How Much Wood Is in a Face Cord?
A face cord contains approximately one-third the amount of wood found in a full cord, with exact measurements that determine its volume and weight. Let’s explore the exact dimensions and weight factors to help you understand what you’re getting when purchasing a face cord.
Volume Measurements
Face cords maintain the standard 4-foot height and 8-foot length of a full cord but differ significantly in depth. While a full cord measures 4′ × 8′ × 4′ (totaling 128 cubic feet), a face cord typically has a depth of only 16 inches (1.33 feet). This common depth measurement results in approximately 42.67 cubic feet of wood, or precisely one-third of a full cord’s volume. Some sellers offer face cords with varying depths between 12-18 inches, which directly impacts the total volume you’re receiving. The actual usable firewood amount also depends on how tightly the logs are stacked, with neatly arranged wood providing more heating material than loosely packed piles.
Weight Considerations
The weight of a face cord varies considerably based on wood species and moisture content. A typical face cord weighs between 1,000-1,600 pounds, representing roughly one-third of a full cord’s weight (3,000-5,000 pounds). Hardwoods like oak create heavier face cords than softwoods such as pine or cedar. Each individual log in a face cord has its own weight profile – for example, a single 16-inch oak log weighs approximately 3.5 pounds when properly seasoned. Moisture levels dramatically affect overall weight, with freshly cut “green” wood weighing substantially more than seasoned wood that’s been dried for at least six months. Consumers should note that some sellers use terms like “rick” interchangeably with “face cord,” though rick dimensions can vary depending on log length (16-inch logs in a rick equal one-third cord, while 24-inch logs equal half a cord).
Factors That Affect Face Cord Quantity
The actual amount of wood in a face cord isn’t standardized and can vary significantly based on several factors. Understanding these variables helps consumers make informed purchasing decisions and compare offerings from different suppliers.
Wood Type and Density
Wood species dramatically impact the quantity of usable heat energy in a face cord. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory have higher densities than softwoods such as pine and spruce, providing more BTUs per cubic foot. A face cord of oak weighs considerably more than the same volume of pine and delivers up to 30% more heat output.
Moisture content also plays a crucial role in determining a face cord’s effective quantity. Freshly cut (green) wood contains 45-50% moisture and weighs significantly more than properly seasoned wood with 15-20% moisture content. The seasoning process doesn’t just reduce weight—it increases burning efficiency by allowing more of the wood’s energy to produce heat rather than evaporating water.
Log Length Variations
Log length directly determines how many rows make up a face cord’s depth. Standard firewood lengths include 16-inch, 18-inch, and 24-inch cuts, with 16 inches being the most common for residential use. A face cord with 16-inch logs requires three rows to equal a full cord’s depth, while 24-inch logs need only two rows.
Stacking patterns significantly affect the actual wood volume in a face cord. Tightly stacked, straight logs maximize the wood-to-air ratio, providing more usable material per face cord. Irregular, crooked, or oddly shaped pieces create air gaps that reduce the effective wood volume by 10-15%. Professional suppliers typically arrange logs in alternating patterns to create a stable stack while maximizing wood content.
Pricing of Face Cords
Face cord pricing varies considerably based on multiple factors including location, wood type, supplier, and regional regulations. Consumers typically pay less for face cords than full cords due to the smaller volume of wood being purchased.
Regional Price Differences
Regional markets significantly impact face cord pricing across different areas of the country. Areas located near abundant forest resources often enjoy lower prices compared to urban regions where wood supplies are limited. Transportation costs add to the final price tag, with remote locations typically seeing higher prices due to increased delivery expenses. Local competition among suppliers can also drive price variations within the same region, creating opportunities for consumers to compare rates.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
Seasonal demand patterns create predictable price changes throughout the year for face cords. Winter months bring higher prices as heating needs increase and more households seek firewood supplies. Conversely, prices typically drop during spring and summer when demand decreases substantially, offering savvy buyers opportunities to purchase and store wood at reduced rates. Many suppliers offer early-season discounts to maintain cash flow during slower periods, making off-season purchasing a cost-effective strategy for regular wood users.
Tips for Buying Face Cords
Purchasing face cords of firewood requires attention to detail and knowledge of what you’re buying. Smart consumers check several key factors before finalizing their purchase to ensure they get quality wood at a fair price.
How to Measure Before Purchasing
Measuring a face cord accurately helps avoid overpaying for less wood than expected. Start by confirming the dimensions—a proper face cord should measure 4 feet high by 8 feet long, with depth typically around 16 inches. Count the logs if they’re uniformly sized to estimate the volume you’re receiving. Visual inspection of the stack from all angles reveals whether it’s tightly packed or contains large air gaps that reduce the actual wood volume. Taking a tape measure along when buying firewood isn’t excessive; it’s simply good consumer practice.
Signs of Quality Firewood
Quality firewood produces more heat and burns cleaner than poorly prepared wood. Properly seasoned wood (dried for at least 6-12 months) has darker ends with visible cracks and feels lighter than freshly cut wood. The moisture content should be below 20% for efficient burning—you can test this with a moisture meter or by knocking two pieces together (dry wood produces a clear, hollow sound). Avoid wood showing signs of rot, mold, or fungal growth as these indicate poor quality and potential health hazards when burned. Different wood species offer varying heat values—hardwoods like oak and maple generally provide more heat per volume than softwoods like pine or spruce.
Uses for a Face Cord of Wood
A face cord serves multiple practical purposes for homeowners who use wood as a heating source. Its manageable size makes it an excellent option for those with limited storage space or occasional burning needs.
Home Heating Efficiency
Kiln-dried face cords provide exceptional heating efficiency in both wood stoves and fireplaces. These carefully dried wood bundles contain significantly lower moisture content than freshly cut wood, resulting in consistent heat output and cleaner burns. The standard 16-inch log length found in most face cords fits perfectly in residential wood stoves, eliminating the need for additional cutting before use. Face cords work particularly well as supplemental heat sources during moderate cold spells when full-time heating isn’t necessary.
How Long a Face Cord Typically Lasts
The typical 16-inch depth face cord lasts approximately 4-8 weeks with daily winter use, depending on several variables. Climate conditions directly impact consumption rates, with colder regions requiring more frequent burning and faster depletion. Hardwoods like oak and maple burn longer than softwoods such as pine, extending the lifespan of your face cord substantially. A face cord provides sufficient wood for occasional evening fires throughout an entire season for homeowners who use wood heat as a supplement rather than a primary source. Households relying exclusively on wood heat in severe winter climates may consume a face cord in as little as 4 weeks during peak heating months.
Storing Your Face Cord
Proper storage of your face cord preserves wood quality and maximizes burn efficiency. Setting up the right storage space and using correct stacking techniques ensures your firewood stays dry and ready to use.
Space Requirements
A face cord requires a dedicated space measuring at least 4 feet high by 8 feet long by 16-18 inches deep for storage. The exact footprint depends on the length of your logs, with most face cords containing logs cut to approximately 16 inches. Storage areas should provide adequate ventilation while offering protection from excessive ground moisture. Many homeowners designate a section of their garage, shed, or yard with a slightly larger area than the minimum dimensions to accommodate stacking variations and allow for air circulation around the woodpile.
Proper Stacking Techniques
Effective stacking starts with creating a solid foundation using a crisscrossed base of logs to elevate the woodpile off the ground. This elevation prevents bottom logs from absorbing ground moisture that accelerates rot and decay. Stack logs vertically with ends aligned for maximum stability and improved airflow between pieces. Uniform log sizes, particularly those split to consistent 16-inch lengths, create more stable and efficient stacks than irregularly cut pieces. The outer edges of your stack should be slightly tilted inward to prevent toppling as the wood dries and settles. Covering only the top of your stack while leaving the sides exposed strikes the perfect balance between rain protection and necessary air circulation that continues the seasoning process.
Key Considerations
Face cords lack universal standardization, so confirming exact measurements with your supplier prevents misunderstandings about quantity. A typical face cord contains approximately one-third the number of logs found in a full cord, equating to roughly 200-270 pieces (assuming 16-inch logs) compared to 600-800 logs in a full cord. Moisture control remains essential throughout storage—wood stored directly on the ground absorbs moisture and develops rot, while completely covered stacks trap moisture that promotes mold growth. The ideal storage solution keeps wood elevated on a base while protecting the top from precipitation but allowing airflow from all sides.
Conclusion
Understanding what a face cord truly represents is essential for making smart firewood purchases. By knowing that a face cord contains about one-third the volume of a full cord with its standard measurements of 4 feet high by 8 feet long by 16 inches deep, you’ll get better value for your money.
When buying a face cord, always verify dimensions, check wood quality, and consider your exact heating needs. Remember that wood type significantly impacts burn time and heat output, with hardwoods generally offering more consistent heat than softwoods.
Whether you’re an occasional fireplace user or rely on wood for heating, proper storage and stacking will maximize your face cord’s efficiency. We hope this guide helps you navigate firewood terminology with confidence and enjoy a warm, cozy home all season long.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a face cord of firewood?
A face cord is a partial measurement of firewood that equals one-third of a full cord. It typically measures 4 feet high by 8 feet long, with varying depth (usually 16 inches) depending on the length of the logs. This partial measurement is commonly used for selling smaller quantities of firewood to homeowners with limited storage space or occasional burning needs.
How does a face cord differ from a full cord?
A full cord measures 4′ × 8′ × 4′ (128 cubic feet), while a face cord measures 4′ × 8′ with a variable depth (typically 16″). A face cord contains approximately one-third the amount of wood in a full cord (about 42.7 cubic feet). This significant difference affects both pricing and burning time, with a full cord providing roughly three times more heat output than a face cord.
How much does a face cord of firewood cost?
Face cord prices vary considerably based on location, wood type, supplier, and season. Generally, face cords cost one-third to one-half the price of a full cord. Urban areas typically have higher prices than rural regions near abundant forest resources. Expect to pay more during winter months due to increased heating demand, while spring and summer offer better pricing.
How much does a face cord of firewood weigh?
A face cord typically weighs between 1,000 to 1,600 pounds, depending on the wood species and moisture content. This is approximately one-third the weight of a full cord. Hardwoods like oak and maple weigh more than softwoods like pine and spruce. Freshly cut (green) wood weighs significantly more than seasoned wood due to higher moisture content.
How long will a face cord of firewood last?
A face cord typically lasts 4-8 weeks with daily winter use, depending on your climate, burning habits, and wood type. Hardwoods like oak and maple burn longer than softwoods like pine. For occasional weekend fires or fireplace use, a face cord might last an entire season. Homes using wood as primary heat in cold climates may need multiple face cords throughout winter.
What’s the difference between a face cord and a rick?
The terms “face cord” and “rick” are often used interchangeably, but dimensions can vary regionally. Both typically measure 4 feet high by 8 feet long with varying depths. While a face cord traditionally has 16-inch depth, a rick’s depth may differ based on local customs. Always confirm exact dimensions when purchasing to ensure you’re getting the expected amount of firewood.
How much space do I need to store a face cord?
A face cord requires a space measuring at least 4 feet high by 8 feet long by 16-18 inches deep. Allow additional space around the stack for air circulation. For best results, store your firewood in a location that receives sunlight and has good ventilation to continue the drying process. Consider covering just the top of the stack to protect from precipitation while allowing airflow.
What should I look for when buying quality firewood?
Look for properly seasoned wood (dried at least 6-12 months) with moisture content below 20%. Quality firewood should have visible cracks on the end grain and sound hollow when pieces are knocked together. Avoid wood with signs of rot, mold, or insect damage. Generally, hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory provide more heat value than softwoods like pine or spruce.
How should I stack a face cord for optimal storage?
Create a solid foundation using pallets or pressure-treated lumber to keep wood off the ground. Stack logs in straight, alternating rows for stability, leaving small gaps between pieces to promote airflow. Cover only the top of the stack with a waterproof material, leaving the sides open for ventilation. Position your stack in a sunny location with good air circulation to prevent mold and continue the drying process.
Are hardwoods or softwoods better for firewood?
Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory generally produce more heat, burn longer, and create less creosote than softwoods. They’re ideal for overnight burns and primary heating. Softwoods like pine and cedar ignite easily and burn hotter initially, making them excellent for kindling and quick heating. For optimal results, use a combination: softwoods to start fires and hardwoods to maintain them.