Burning wood in a fireplace or wood stove offers a cozy and efficient way to heat your home. For those relying on firewood, understanding how firewood is measured, especially when buying in bulk, is crucial for budgeting and storage. The term “cord” is frequently used, but what exactly is a cord of wood? This article will clarify the size of a cord of wood and explore other common firewood measurements.
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What Is a Cord of Firewood?
A cord of firewood is a standardized unit of volume, specifically for firewood. When measuring a cord, the wood pieces should be stacked tightly and parallel, often referred to as a “running cord.” In practical terms, a cord of wood is defined as 128 cubic feet. Imagine a stack of firewood that measures 4 feet wide, 4 feet high, and 8 feet long – that’s a cord. This quantity typically consists of about 600 to 800 individual pieces of firewood, depending on the size and how tightly they are packed.
It’s important to note that while the 128 cubic feet definition is standard in the United States, local regulations can vary slightly. Always check with your local authorities or firewood supplier to confirm the precise definition of a cord in your area before making a purchase. This ensures you’re getting the amount of firewood you expect and need.
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Other Firewood Measurements
While a full cord is the standard for bulk firewood, you might encounter other terms that represent different quantities. Understanding these terms is essential when comparing prices and determining how much wood to order.
Face Cord or Rick Cord
A face cord, also known as a rick cord, is a smaller volume of firewood than a full cord. It’s defined as a stack of wood that is 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but with a width that is typically the length of the firewood pieces themselves. Common firewood lengths for a face cord are 12, 16, or 24 inches. A face cord is always less wood than a full cord because its depth is less than the 4-foot depth of a full cord.
Sheldon Cord
The term “Sheldon cord” is less standardized and can be confusing. In some regions, a Sheldon cord may refer to a volume larger than a full cord, while in others it might be the same or even smaller. The size of a Sheldon cord is highly dependent on the location and the seller. Therefore, if you encounter this term, it’s crucial to ask the seller for the exact dimensions of the wood stack to accurately compare prices and quantities.
Bush Cord and Stove Cord
These terms, “bush cord” and “stove cord,” are generally considered to be synonymous with a full cord of wood. When a seller uses these terms, they are typically referring to the standard 128 cubic feet volume. However, it’s always a good practice to confirm the dimensions to avoid any misunderstandings.
Half Cord and One-Third Cord
For smaller needs, firewood is often sold in fractions of a cord, such as half cords or one-third cords. These measurements are exactly what they sound like: half or one-third of a full cord, respectively. A half cord is 64 cubic feet, and a one-third cord is approximately 42.67 cubic feet. These smaller portions can be convenient for those with limited storage space or for occasional use. While the log lengths can vary, they are often shorter than those found in full cords, typically around 16, 32, or 48 inches.
Truckload of Wood
The term “truckload of wood” is highly ambiguous and not a reliable measurement. The amount of wood in a truckload varies dramatically depending on the size of the pickup truck and how the wood is loaded. It could be significantly less than a cord or, in some cases, close to a cord. If a seller quotes a price for a “truckload,” always ask for specific dimensions or cubic feet to understand the actual quantity of firewood you are purchasing.
Firewood Storage
Proper firewood storage is essential to keep your wood dry and ready to burn. Whether you choose indoor or outdoor storage, there are a few key considerations. Storing firewood indoors is generally recommended only for a day or two’s worth of wood. Bringing large quantities of firewood indoors can introduce pests, dirt, debris, and pollen into your home. Furthermore, if the wood isn’t fully dried, it can release moisture and increase humidity levels inside your house.
For longer-term storage, outdoor firewood racks and holders are ideal. Choose a location that is well-ventilated and off the ground to promote air circulation and prevent rot.
How to Stack Firewood
Stacking firewood correctly is crucial for efficient drying and easy access.
- Location: Select a spot with good airflow, away from trees to avoid the pile being toppled by wind.
- Method: Begin by elevating the wood off the ground using logs, bricks, or pallets. Stack the wood in rows, using stakes at the ends for stability. If stacking multiple rows deep, leave gaps between rows for air circulation.
- Driest Wood on Top: Stack the driest, seasoned wood on top for easy access as dry wood burns more efficiently and produces less smoke. Use the oldest wood from your pile first to minimize the risk of rot.
- Covering: Cover only the top of the woodpile with a tarp or cover. This protects it from rain and snow while still allowing for airflow to dry the wood.
FAQ
- Will one full cord of wood fit in a pickup truck? No, a full cord of wood is typically too large and heavy to safely fit in a standard pickup truck bed.
- How long does one cord of wood typically last? The duration a cord of wood lasts depends on factors like house size and burning frequency. However, a general estimate is that a full cord might last between 6 to 12 weeks for regular use during heating season.
- How much does one cord of firewood cost? The cost of a cord of firewood varies significantly depending on location, wood type, and seller. Prices can start around $300 but can be much higher. Exploring options for free firewood sources can also be worthwhile to reduce heating expenses.
Conclusion
Understanding “How Big Is A Cord Of Wood” and different firewood measurements is vital for making informed decisions when purchasing firewood. By knowing the standard definition of a cord and being aware of other terms like face cord and truckload, you can ensure you are getting the right quantity of firewood for your heating needs and budget. Proper storage and stacking techniques further contribute to efficient and enjoyable wood burning.
