Calculate cords and volume of firewood
A standard cord of firewood is a stack that measures 4 feet wide, 4 feet high, and 8 feet long (128 cubic feet).
A "face cord" is 4ft high and 8ft long, but only as wide as the logs (usually 16 inches). It is roughly 1/3 of a full cord.
Freshly cut "green" wood has 50% moisture. Seasoned wood (dried for 6-12 months) has 20% moisture and burns much more efficiently.
Scenario: You have a firewood stack that's 8 feet long, 4 feet wide, and 4 feet high. How many cords do you have?
Step 1: Calculate volume = 8 × 4 × 4 = 128 cubic feet
Step 2: Calculate cords = 128 ÷ 128 = 1.0 cord
Step 3: Estimate weight = 1.0 cord × 2,500 lbs = 2,500 lbs (seasoned hardwood)
Result: You have exactly one full cord of firewood. At $250 per cord for seasoned oak, this stack is worth $250. A face cord (16" wide instead of 48") would be only 1/3 of this amount.
A full cord is 4×4×8 feet (128 cu ft). A face cord (also called 'rick') is 4 feet high × 8 feet long but only as deep as the logs (typically 16 inches). A face cord is roughly 1/3 of a full cord, or ~43 cubic feet.
Plan for 3-6 cords per heating season depending on climate, insulation, and wood species. Cold climates (Minnesota, Maine) may need 6-8 cords. Moderate climates (Virginia, Oregon) need 3-4 cords. Use hardwoods for maximum heat output.
Hardwoods produce the most BTUs per cord: oak (24-28 million BTUs), hickory (27-30M), ash (24M), and maple (24M). Softwoods like pine (15-17M BTUs) burn faster and produce less heat. Always use seasoned wood for best results.
Hardwoods need 6-12 months to dry properly. Split wood dries faster than rounds. Stack wood off the ground in a sunny, breezy location with good air circulation. Cover the top but leave sides open. Moisture content should be below 20% for efficient burning.
Seasoned wood has cracks in the ends, bark falls off easily, sounds hollow when knocked together, and weighs significantly less than green wood. Use a moisture meter—properly seasoned wood reads 15-20% moisture. Green wood is 35-60% moisture.
Volume (cords) is standardized and easier to measure than weight. Weight varies dramatically by species and moisture content: green oak weighs 4,000+ lbs per cord while seasoned pine is only 2,000 lbs. Selling by cord ensures fair pricing regardless of moisture.
No. Stack firewood at least 5 feet from structures to prevent moisture damage, mold, termites, and mice from entering your home. Also keep it off the ground using pallets or a firewood rack to allow airflow and prevent rot.
Prices vary by region and species: $150-$400 per cord. Seasoned hardwood (oak, maple) costs $250-$400. Softwood (pine, spruce) costs $150-$250. Green (unseasoned) wood is $50-$100 cheaper but requires 6-12 months to dry before burning.
Disclaimer: Weight estimates assume average seasoned hardwood at ~20% moisture. Actual firewood weight varies WIDELY (±30-50%) by species and moisture content: softwoods weigh 1000-1300 lbs/cord; hardwoods 2500-3500 lbs/cord; green (wet) wood 3500-4500 lbs/cord. This calculator uses rough averages. For accurate weight, weigh a sample or consult your supplier. Always season wood 6-12 months to below 20% moisture before burning for efficiency and chimney safety.
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