what is a cord of wood

3 min read 15-01-2025

A cord of wood is a standard unit of measure for firewood, representing a stack of wood that's 4 feet wide, 4 feet high, and 8 feet long. This equates to 128 cubic feet of wood. Understanding what constitutes a cord is crucial for both buyers and sellers to ensure fair pricing and accurate delivery. This guide will explain everything you need to know about cords of wood, from understanding the measurement to avoiding common pitfalls.

Understanding the Dimensions of a Cord

The standard cord, sometimes called a "face cord," is a stack of wood measuring 4 feet high by 4 feet wide by 8 feet long. This makes a total volume of 128 cubic feet. However, it's important to note that this measurement refers to the stacked volume, not the solid volume of the wood itself. Because wood pieces aren't perfectly uniform, there will always be air gaps between the pieces.

Visualizing a Cord

Imagine a neatly stacked pile of firewood. It’s not just a random heap; it needs to be carefully arranged. Think of it as a rectangular prism with the dimensions mentioned above. A properly stacked cord is crucial for accurate measurement and consistent pricing.

Different Types of Wood Measurement

While the standard cord is the most common, there are other ways firewood is sold:

Face Cord

A face cord is a stack of wood that’s 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but only 1 foot deep (or whatever thickness the wood is split into). This is a common way to sell shorter pieces of wood, for example, wood cut and split for a smaller wood stove or fireplace. It is not a full cord, and it’s crucial to understand this distinction before buying.

Rack Cord

A rack cord is similar to a face cord but is typically arranged in a more “racked” manner. This means it will likely have a lot of air spaces, potentially making it even less wood by volume than a face cord.

Cubic Foot

Sometimes, firewood might be sold by the cubic foot, especially for smaller quantities. Remember that a cord contains 128 cubic feet, so you can calculate the price per cubic foot if needed.

How to Measure a Cord of Wood

Accurately measuring a cord requires attention to detail. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Check the Dimensions

Ensure the stack is precisely 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. Use a measuring tape to verify the dimensions. Any deviation from these measurements will result in a smaller quantity of wood.

Step 2: Inspect the Stacking

The wood should be tightly stacked, with minimal air gaps between pieces. Loosely stacked wood contains a significant amount of air and represents less actual wood volume.

Step 3: Consider the Wood Type

Different types of wood have different densities. Hardwoods tend to be denser than softwoods, meaning a cord of hardwood will generally weigh more than a cord of softwood.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls When Buying Firewood

Don't rely on estimations: Always have the seller clearly state whether the wood is sold by the cord, face cord, or cubic foot. Get it in writing.
Verify the measurements: Personally measure the wood stack before accepting delivery, especially with larger orders.
Understand the stacking method: A loosely stacked cord will contain significantly less wood than a tightly stacked one.
Check for hidden gaps: Look for any unusually large gaps within the stack that might indicate less wood than advertised.

Conclusion

Understanding what constitutes a cord of wood is essential for anyone buying or selling firewood. By carefully checking the dimensions, stacking method, and overall condition of the wood, you can ensure you receive a fair amount for your money. Remember, a cord of wood is a standard measure – 4ft x 4ft x 8ft – totaling 128 cubic feet. Always double-check to prevent being shorted!