Wondering exactly how much wood you’re getting when buying a “cord”? You’re not alone. Many homeowners and first-time firewood buyers find themselves confused by this traditional measurement, especially when vendors use terms like “face cord,” “rick,” or “stove cord” interchangeably.
We’ve helped countless customers understand wood measurements to ensure they get their money’s worth. A true cord of wood has exact, standardized dimensions that everyone should know before making a purchase. Without this knowledge, you might end up paying full price for significantly less firewood than you expected.
In this guide, we’ll break down the exact measurements of a cord of wood, explain common variations, and share tips to verify you’re getting the full amount you’ve paid for.
What Is a Cord of Wood: Standard Measurements Explained
A cord of wood represents a exact volume measurement with precise dimensions established by law in the United States and Canada. The standard full cord measures 4 feet deep × 4 feet high × 8 feet long (4′ × 4′ × 8′), equaling 128 cubic feet of stacked firewood. This measurement includes both the wood and the air spaces between the pieces when properly stacked.
Wood pieces in a full cord typically come in 16-inch lengths, allowing them to be stacked three rows deep to achieve the required 4-foot depth. The official dimensions remain consistent across regions, though local terminology might vary.
Firewood sellers must adhere to these standardized measurements when advertising a cord of wood for sale. Understanding these precise dimensions protects consumers from receiving less firewood than they’ve paid for, as some unscrupulous vendors might attempt to deliver smaller quantities using confusing terminology.
The weight of a cord varies significantly depending on several factors:
- Wood species (oak weighs more than pine)
- Moisture content (seasoned vs. unseasoned)
- Size and arrangement of the individual pieces
A full cord of seasoned hardwood typically weighs between 2,000 and 3,000 pounds (1-1.5 tons), while softwoods generally weigh 25-30% less. These standard measurements create transparency in firewood transactions, allowing customers to compare prices and quantities accurately across different suppliers.
The Official Dimensions of a Full Cord
A cord of wood follows exact standardized measurements established as the legal unit for selling firewood. The official definition specifies a cord as exactly 128 cubic feet of stacked firewood, with conventional dimensions that create a readily identifiable volume.
Length, Width, and Height Specifications
The standard dimensions of a full cord measure 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and 4 feet deep. These measurements create the familiar rectangular stack that wood suppliers and consumers recognize throughout North America. The depth dimension typically accommodates three rows of 16-inch firewood pieces placed end to end, which equals the 4-foot width specification. While these dimensions (4′ × 8′ × 4′) represent the most common configuration, any arrangement that yields 128 cubic feet of stacked wood qualifies as a full cord. Alternative arrangements maintain the same total volume but might feature different stack dimensions to fit exact storage areas.
Total Volume Calculation
The total volume of a full cord equals 128 cubic feet, calculated by multiplying the three dimensions of the stack. Using the standard dimensions, this calculation works out as: 8 feet (length) × 4 feet (width) × 4 feet (height) = 128 cubic feet. A properly stacked full cord contains approximately 700-900 pieces of firewood when cut to the standard length of about 18 inches. The actual piece count varies based on the thickness of individual logs and how tightly they’re stacked. This standardized volume measurement provides consumers with a reliable reference point when purchasing firewood, ensuring they receive the full quantity they’ve paid for regardless of how the wood is arranged.
Common Variations of Wood Cord Measurements
Various cord measurements exist beyond the standard full cord, each with exact dimensions that buyers should recognize. Understanding these differences helps ensure you’re getting the right amount of firewood for your needs.
Face Cord vs. Full Cord
Face cords contain significantly less wood than full cords, making price comparison essential when purchasing firewood. A face cord measures 4 feet high by 8 feet long but varies in depth, typically between 12 to 18 inches, representing approximately 1/3 of a full cord. Full cords, in contrast, provide 128 cubic feet of wood with standard dimensions of 8 feet long, 4 feet high, and 4 feet deep. The price per cubic foot is often higher for face cords, though they’re more manageable for residential users with limited storage space. Many homeowners prefer face cords because they’re easier to handle and store while still providing enough firewood for occasional use.
Stacked Cord vs. Thrown Cord
Stacked cords offer more precise measurement than thrown cords, giving buyers confidence in the volume they’re receiving. In a stacked cord arrangement, logs are neatly organized in parallel rows, creating the standard measurement method used when defining cord volumes. Thrown cords, conversely, involve logs randomly tossed into a pile without orderly stacking, resulting in less predictable volumes. The irregular arrangement of thrown cords can lead to approximately 15-20% more space between pieces, meaning you’ll need a larger volume area to equal the same amount of wood in a stacked cord. Buyers should clarify which measurement method sellers use and potentially negotiate prices accordingly when purchasing thrown rather than stacked arrangements.
How Wood Stacking Affects Cord Measurements
Stacking technique directly impacts the actual volume of wood in a cord. The way firewood is arranged determines how much usable wood you’re getting within the standard 128 cubic feet measurement, affecting both value and heating efficiency.
Air Space and Wood Volume Ratio
The ratio between wood volume and air space significantly influences the overall utility of your firewood purchase. Air gaps between wood pieces reduce the actual amount of solid wood in a cord, potentially decreasing the heating value you receive. A properly stacked cord minimizes these air spaces while maintaining the standard volume measurement of 128 cubic feet. Different wood shapes and sizes create varying amounts of air space – straighter, more uniform pieces typically result in less space between logs and more actual wood volume per cord. The goal of proper stacking is to maximize the wood-to-air ratio, ensuring you get the most fuel for your money.
Proper Stacking Techniques
Effective firewood stacking techniques ensure you’re getting a full 128 cubic feet of usable wood. When stacking, arrange wood pieces parallel to each other, creating neat rows that minimize gaps between pieces. Each log should touch or come as close as possible to neighboring pieces, eliminating excessive air pockets. Alignment matters – position pieces to fill the space efficiently by placing smaller pieces between larger ones to create a compact, tight arrangement. Professional wood suppliers stack logs precisely to minimize gaps and air space, ensuring the cord maintains its defined dimensions of 4 feet high, 8 feet wide, and 4 feet deep. Randomly thrown wood occupies more space than properly stacked wood, so a thrown pile will contain significantly less actual wood than a neatly stacked cord of the same dimensions.
Regional Differences in Cord Measurements
Cord measurements can vary significantly depending on location, with different regions adopting their own standards and practices for measuring firewood. These regional variations impact what consumers receive when purchasing a “cord” of wood and make it essential to understand local terminology.
United States Standards
The United States maintains standardized measurements for cords of wood across all states, though some regional practices create variations. A standard full cord in the U.S. measures exactly 128 cubic feet, typically arranged as 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. State regulations may enforce these measurements differently, making it important to verify dimensions with suppliers before purchasing. In some regions, particularly in the Northeast and Midwest, face cords (measuring 4 feet high, 8 feet long, but only 16 inches deep) are commonly sold as one-third of a full cord. This regional practice can create confusion when comparing prices between different areas or suppliers.
Canadian and International Variations
Canadian cord measurements closely mirror U.S. standards, with a full cord also equaling 128 cubic feet of stacked firewood. Provincial regulations throughout Canada enforce this measurement to protect consumers, though local terminology might differ slightly. Internationally, the cord unit is less common, with many countries preferring the metric system for wood measurement. European countries typically sell firewood by cubic meters rather than cords, with 1 cord approximately equaling 3.62 cubic meters. Asian and African markets often use weight-based measurements or local volume units entirely different from the North American cord system. These international differences highlight the importance of clarifying exactly what quantity you’re receiving when purchasing firewood outside your familiar region.
Tools for Measuring a Cord of Wood
Accurate measurement tools ensure you’re receiving the full 128 cubic feet of firewood in a cord. A tape measure serves as the most fundamental tool, allowing you to calculate the total volume by multiplying the height, length, and depth of your wood stack. For proper verification, measure all three dimensions and confirm they equal 128 cubic feet when multiplied together.
Standardized racks provide a foolproof method for measuring cord compliance. These pre-built structures maintain the classic 4’×8’×4′ dimensions, creating a perfect template for stacking and verifying a full cord of wood. Commercial sellers often use these racks to demonstrate they’re providing the legally required amount of firewood.
Historically, string or cord was used to bundle wood into standardized dimensions, which is where the term “cord” originated. Today, this method remains useful as a reference point for proper stacking techniques, though it’s less common for actual measurement. The name persists as a reminder of traditional wood measurement practices.
Understanding the quantity of wood pieces in a cord helps buyers estimate their purchase. A typical cord contains approximately 700-900 pieces of firewood when cut to standard 18-inch lengths. This count varies based on the thickness of individual logs and how tightly they’re stacked together.
Tips for Ensuring You Get a Full Cord When Purchasing
Verifying the dimensions of your firewood purchase helps guarantee you’re receiving a genuine full cord of 128 cubic feet. Always measure the stack’s height, width, and depth before finalizing your purchase to confirm it matches the standard 4′ × 4′ × 8′ dimensions or an equivalent volume.
Check for neat, parallel stacking with minimal gaps between pieces, as loosely stacked woodpiles contain more air and less actual wood. Professional suppliers typically stack wood tightly in a “racked and well stowed” manner, maximizing the wood-to-air ratio.
Understand the terminology differences between face cords and full cords to avoid receiving less wood than expected. A face cord (approximately 4′ × 8′ × 16″) contains only about one-third the volume of a full cord.
Count the pieces if possible—a typical full cord contains between 700-900 pieces of firewood when cut to 18-inch lengths. This count varies based on the thickness of individual logs and stacking density.
Request written documentation of the quantity being delivered, including the seller’s definition of terms like “cord,” “face cord,” or “rick” to prevent misunderstandings about what you’re purchasing.
Conclusion
Knowing the precise measurements of a cord of wood is essential for making informed firewood purchases. A standard cord equals 128 cubic feet (4′ × 4′ × 8′) though variations like face cords and regional differences exist. When buying firewood we recommend measuring the stack dimensions verifying proper stacking technique and getting written documentation of quantity.
Armed with this knowledge you’ll avoid confusion in the marketplace and ensure you’re getting your money’s worth. Remember that wood species moisture content and stacking method all affect the actual volume and heating value you receive. By understanding these measurements you can confidently purchase the right amount of firewood for your needs and storage capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cord of wood?
A cord of wood is a legally standardized volume measurement equal to 128 cubic feet of stacked firewood. It typically measures 4 feet deep × 4 feet high × 8 feet long (4′ × 4′ × 8′), including both the wood and air spaces between pieces when properly stacked. This standard measurement helps ensure consumers receive the proper amount of firewood they pay for.
What’s the difference between a face cord and a full cord?
A face cord is smaller than a full cord. While both measure 4 feet high by 8 feet long, a face cord’s depth varies, typically 12-18 inches compared to a full cord’s 4-foot depth. A face cord is approximately one-third of a full cord and often costs more per cubic foot. Always clarify which measurement a seller is using before purchasing.
How many pieces of firewood are in a cord?
A standard cord contains approximately 700-900 pieces of firewood, though this varies depending on the thickness of the logs and how tightly they’re stacked. Wood cut to the standard 16-inch length typically arranges in three rows to create the 4-foot depth of a full cord. Counting pieces can help verify you’re receiving a complete cord.
How much does a cord of wood weigh?
The weight of a cord varies significantly based on wood species, moisture content, and piece size. Generally, a cord of seasoned hardwood weighs between 2,000-3,000 pounds (1-1.5 tons), while softwoods weigh 25-30% less. Freshly cut “green” wood weighs considerably more than seasoned wood due to higher moisture content.
How should cord wood be stacked for accurate measurement?
For accurate measurement, firewood should be stacked with pieces arranged parallel to each other in neat rows to minimize gaps. The stack should measure 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and 4 feet deep to equal a full cord. Proper stacking maximizes the wood-to-air ratio and ensures you’re getting the full volume of wood you paid for.
What is a thrown cord of wood?
A thrown cord refers to firewood that’s been randomly piled rather than neatly stacked. Because of the irregular arrangement and increased air spaces, a thrown cord contains less actual wood than a stacked cord of the same dimensions. When purchasing a thrown cord, expect approximately 20-25% more volume than a stacked cord to equal the same amount of wood.
Are cord measurements the same internationally?
No. While the United States and Canada use the standard 128 cubic foot cord, many other countries use the metric system, selling firewood by cubic meters. Even within North America, regional terminology varies, with terms like “rick,” “face cord,” or “stove cord” used differently across regions. Always clarify the exact volume you’re receiving when purchasing firewood.
How can I verify I’m getting a full cord of wood?
Measure the stack’s dimensions with a tape measure before accepting delivery. The volume should equal 128 cubic feet (4’×4’×8′ or equivalent). Check for neat stacking with minimal gaps. Request written documentation specifying the quantity and the seller’s definition of terms. When possible, count pieces to ensure you’re receiving approximately 700-900 pieces of standard-cut firewood.
Why does proper stacking matter when measuring a cord?
Proper stacking directly impacts the actual volume of wood you receive within the standard 128 cubic feet. Poor stacking creates excessive air gaps, reducing the amount of usable wood. Professional stacking arranges pieces parallel to minimize gaps, maximizing the wood-to-air ratio. This ensures you get the most heating value from your purchase and the full volume you paid for.
What tools do I need to measure a cord of wood?
A tape measure is the most essential tool for measuring cord dimensions. Measure the height, width, and depth of the stack to calculate total volume (multiply all three numbers). Some buyers use standardized racks built to cord dimensions (4’×8′) to verify compliance. For loose or thrown wood, you may need to estimate based on the pile’s dimensions and adjust for additional air space.