How big is a cord of firewood? Quick Guide

How big is a cord of firewood? Quick GuideFirewood is an important source of heat and energy, especially during the cold winter months. But how much firewood do you need? A cord of wood is a standard measure for purchasing firewood, but many people don’t know exactly what it means.

In this article, we will discuss how big a cord of firewood is and offer some tips on buying one. By understanding the size and cost associated with purchasing a cord of wood, you can ensure you get the right amount to keep your home warm all season long!

What is a cord of wood and what does it look like?

A cord of firewood is a large stack of cut and split logs measuring 8 feet long, 4 feet high, and 4 feet wide. The amount of wood contained in this stack can vary depending on the size and length of the logs used. Generally speaking, one cord contains about 128 cubic feet of wood or around five thousand pounds of firewood. It is commonly stacked neatly with alternating layers running perpendicular to each other which helps to create an even stack that won’t topple over easily.

Depending on the type of wood used, the cord can produce anywhere from 12 to 24 million British Thermal Units (BTUs) of energy.

When purchasing a cord of firewood, it is important to check the quality and condition before purchase as some sellers may try to sell wet or unseasoned wood that has not been properly dried out. Unseasoned wood will produce less heat and burn less efficiently. Properly seasoned firewood will help ensure you get the most heat and value out of each purchase.

How much firewood is in a cord?

As mentioned before, a cord is a unit of measure for firewood and usually is defined as 128 cubic feet (3.62 cubic meters) of tightly stacked wood measuring 4 feet high by 8 feet long by 16 inches deep (1.22m x 2.44m x 0.41m). The amount of firewood in a cord can vary depending on the type and size of the wood, but it typically equates to about 3 ½ cords per full truckload or between 10-12 face cords.

A face cord measures 8 feet wide by 4 feet high and varies in length up to 16 ft, which will yield less overall volume than a full cord. So to get an exact answer for how much firewood is in a cord, it would depend on the type and size of wood being used.

For instance, a cord of hardwood (such as oak or hickory) typically weighs around 4,000 lbs (1,814 kg), while a cord of softer wood such as pine or cedar would weigh less at around 2,800 lbs (1270kg). A cord of split wood also weighs less than a cord of whole logs, usually around 2,200 lbs (998 kg).

The amount of firewood in a cord can vary depending on the type and size of wood being used, so it’s important to know exactly what you are getting when purchasing firewood. Knowing how much firewood is in a cord can help you make sure you’re getting the right amount to meet your needs.

How big is a cord of firewood? Quick Guide

You should also take into account that when stacking firewood, some pieces may not fit neatly together and will have to be cut or split to fit, which can affect the total volume of a cord. It’s always best to measure the total volume of a cord after it has been stacked, as this will give you an accurate measurement. When in doubt, consult with your firewood supplier for advice on how much firewood is in a cord.

Lastly, many states have laws and regulations regarding the sale and purchase of firewood, so be sure to check your local regulations before buying firewood. This will help you ensure that you’re getting the right amount of firewood for your needs and that it is coming from a reputable source. Knowing how much firewood is in a cord can help make your purchase easier and guarantee that you’re getting what you need.

The different types of wood you can use for firewood

Firewood varies significantly depending on the region of the world you live in. Each type of wood has its own set of advantages and disadvantages when it comes to burning for heat or cooking. Softwoods, such as pine and spruce, are generally easier to light but burn quickly, while hardwoods, like oak and maple, can be more difficult to get started but provide a longer-lasting flame.

  • When selecting firewood, it is important to consider how dry it is. Dry wood burns more efficiently and produces less smoke than wet wood. Look for firewood that feels lighter in weight than normal and has a grayish or whitish color to it—these signs indicate that the wood is well-seasoned. Avoid using freshly cut logs because they contain too much moisture and can produce excessive smoke and creosote build-up.
  • Additionally, it is important to use the right size of wood for your fire. Smaller logs will fit more easily into a fireplace or stove and burn quicker than larger logs, so it’s best to select pieces that are about two to four inches in diameter. If you want a longer-lasting flame, then opt for split logs instead of whole ones since they provide better air circulation.
  • Finally, if you have access to specialty woods like cherry, apple, or hickory, these can create unique flavors when burned that could enhance your cooking experience. However, these types of wood are typically harder to find and may be more expensive than traditional firewood.

No matter which type of wood you choose, always remember to store it in a dry area away from moisture and pests. This will help ensure that the wood is ready to burn efficiently when you are ready to use it.

How to stack firewood so that it’s easy to access and store

To stack firewood, you will need to plan out the best approach for storing your wood. Keep in mind that access and airflow are key components of a successful firewood stack.

How big is a cord of firewood? Quick Guide

Of course, you can buy firewood holder racks or other similar tools to help you stack your firewood. If you don’t have one of these, no worries! Here are some steps that will help you create a well-stacked firewood supply:

  1. Choose an area that is away from buildings, trees, and other combustible materials. Make sure this spot is level and stable.
  2. Place several logs at the base of the woodpile so it will remain sturdy when stacked higher up.
  3. Use pieces of scrap lumber or boards to create layers between each layer of logs to promote airflow around the stack and prevent rot and mold growth. This also makes it easier to sort through when grabbing logs for use.
  4. For best results, stack the wood in a criss-cross pattern with groups of logs placed at an angle to one another. This allows more air to move around and through the stack which will help keep it dry and prevent rot.
  5. Cover the top of the stack with a tarp or plastic sheeting to protect it from moisture and rain during inclement weather.

Following these tips will help ensure that your firewood is properly stored and easy to access when needed!

Tips before buying a cord of firewood

How big is a cord of firewood? Quick Guide

1. Inspect the wood

Inspect the wood to make sure it is dry. When you purchase a cord of firewood, ensure that all the pieces are dry and free from mold or rot. You can do this by looking at each piece and feeling for moisture in the wood. Moisture meter devices are also available to measure the moisture in your firewood.

2. Split wood vs. rounds

Consider buying split wood instead of rounds. It may be easier to store, burn, and stack split wood than round logs due to its smaller size and more uniform shape. Split wood has also been seasoned longer than rounds, which helps reduce smoke when burning it later on. If you buy round wood don’t forget to buy a splitting maul, axe, wedge, and saws for cutting them into burnable size pieces.

3. Delivery options

Investigate delivery options if you don’t have a truck or trailer to pick up your purchased cords of firewood yourself. Many suppliers offer firewood delivery services so you don’t have to worry about hauling your wood yourself.

4. Did you choose seasoned wood?

Ask about the supplier’s storage facility for firewood and how long it has been seasoned. If you’re buying from a local business, you may want to ask them where they store their wood and how long it has been seasoned before being sold. This will help you ensure that the wood is dry and ready to burn when you get it.

5. Research wood

Research different types of wood available in your area before investing in a cord of firewood. Different woods burn differently (incredible, ha!), so it’s important to know what type of wood works best for your needs before purchasing a large amount of one kind of fuel. In addition, some areas may not even have the type of firewood you want, such as oak or birch. Take into account what types of wood are locally available before investing in a cord of firewood.

6. Make sure to understand pricing and quantity.

Some suppliers may sell cords by volume rather than weight, which can make it difficult to compare prices between suppliers. Before committing to buying a full cord, ask them how they calculate their measurements so that you know exactly how much wood you’re getting for your money.

It’s also important to note that there is no industry standard size for a cord, so double-check with your supplier what their definition of a “cord” is before investing!

Finally, be aware that some unscrupulous suppliers may try to sell you a “fractional” cord, which is less than the full amount of wood that should be included in a cord. Be sure to ask for a full or true cord so you get the best deal for your money.

7. Ask about payment options.

Different suppliers may have different payment options, so make sure to ask about them before making a purchase. You may be able to pay with cash, check, or credit card. Depending on the supplier, you may also be able to purchase firewood in bulk and receive a discount for doing so.

Additionally, some suppliers may offer payment plans or financing options to help make purchasing a cord of firewood easier on your wallet.

8. Keep in mind that you get what you pay for.

Cheaper firewood may seem like a great deal, but it usually means you will be getting lower-quality wood that may not burn as well. If possible, try to buy higher-quality firewood so you know you will be getting a good product.

In the end, it is better to invest in higher-quality firewood that will last longer and burn better than cheap firewood that will create more smoke and be harder to light. Higher-quality wood may cost a bit more upfront, but it will pay off in the long run.

9. Delivery or stacking services

When purchasing a cord of firewood, ask about any delivery or stacking services they may offer. Many suppliers may offer delivery, as well as stacking services to help make it easier for you to get your firewood where it needs to go.

Delivery and stacking can be especially helpful if you don’t have the means to transport or stack the wood yourself. Be sure to inquire about any additional delivery or stacking fees before making your purchase.

10. Receipt of your purchase

Finally, always ask for a receipt when you purchase a cord of firewood. This will provide you with proof of purchase and can help protect your investment in case of any discrepancies down the line. Additionally, it’s important to understand the terms and conditions of your purchase in case you need to return or exchange any firewood.

By asking for a receipt and understanding the terms of purchase, you can help ensure that you get the best deal on your firewood. Good luck!

Instead of final words

Purchasing a cord of firewood can seem like an intimidating task, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can make sure that you get the best product for your money. By researching local suppliers, understanding pricing and quantity options, asking about payment plans and delivery services, investing in higher-quality wood when possible, and always requesting a receipt after purchase – you are taking steps to ensure that your investment is protected. With these 10 simple tips on how to purchase a cord of firewood in mind, now all there’s left to do is find the perfect supplier!

William Royster

William Royster

Hello, I'm William Royster, an American wood and fire enthusiast. Through this blog, I share my expertise, tips, and experiences with all who are interested, from seasoned woodsmen to those curious about the warmth and memories of a roaring fire. Join me on this journey to reconnect with nature and simpler times. Cheers to the beauty of wood and fire! More info

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x