When buying firewood, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is, “What exactly is a cord of firewood?” A cord of wood is the standard unit used in the industry to describe a specific quantity of stacked firewood. This helps buyers understand exactly how much they’re getting and ensures they pay a fair price. A full cord measures 4 feet high, 4 feet deep, and 8 feet long, totaling 128 cubic feet of tightly stacked logs. This size is considered the primary unit for firewood sales, though smaller variations like half cords, face cords, or ricks are also sold. These different units can sometimes appear larger than they actually are, and not clearly defining the units can confuse buyers.
At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we help homeowners make informed choices when purchasing firewood. To picture a full cord, think of three rows of 16-inch logs stacked tightly to form a 4 × 4 × 8 ft pile. Understanding this measurement helps you know exactly how much firewood you’re getting. It ensures you receive the right amount to keep your home warm all season.
How to Measure a Cord of Firewood
Measuring your firewood correctly prevents short loads and ensures consistent heat output. The simplest way to verify your stack is to multiply length × height × depth in feet. Firewood is usually cut into standard lengths, such as 16 inches. These consistent sizes make it easier to measure and compare when buying a cord of wood.
Before any bullet list, here’s what most homeowners miss: measurement accuracy depends on how the logs are stacked. Loose piles can make you think you’re getting a full cord, but air gaps reduce the actual volume. Stacking tightly gives you the correct measurement.
Cord comparison chart:
| Type | Dimensions | Approx. Volume | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Cord | 4 ft × 4 ft × 8 ft | 128 cu ft | Standard measurement |
| Face Cord | 4 ft × 8 ft × 16 in | ~40–45 cu ft | One-third of a full cord |
| Half Cord | 4 ft × 4 ft × 4 ft | 64 cu ft | Half of a full cord |
A good rule of thumb: if your delivery looks smaller than expected, measure it. Multiply the three dimensions and compare the result with 128 cubic feet. If it’s less, you’ve been shorted.
Understanding Firewood Types and Heating Value
Not all wood burns the same. The type of wood you choose affects how long it burns, how much heat it produces, and how cleanly it burns inside your fireplace or wood stove.
Hardwoods like oak, maple, and birch are denser, producing more heat and less creosote. Softwoods like pine or spruce ignite quickly but burn faster and cooler. Each has its use: hardwood for overnight heating, softwood for quick fires or kindling.
Comparison table of common firewood types:
| Wood Type | Category | BTU Output (per cord) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oak | Hardwood | 29–30 million | Slow, long burn |
| Maple | Hardwood | 25–27 million | Balanced heat, clean |
| Birch | Hardwood | 23–24 million | Easy to split |
| Pine | Softwood | 16–17 million | Lightfast, burns quickly |
For best performance, always burn seasoned wood (dried at least 6 months) or kiln-dried firewood, which has lower moisture content (below 20%). If firewood is not properly dried, the excess moisture must be burned off before the wood itself is efficiently burned, which reduces heat output and increases smoke. This ensures hotter fires and less smoke.
How Much Does a Cord of Firewood Cost?
The cost of firewood depends on several factors, including the type of wood, whether it’s green, seasoned, or kiln-dried, and your location. When purchasing, it’s essential to confirm how the firewood is measured and sold so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Prices can also vary depending on delivery distance, stacking services, and the time of year.
On average, a cord of firewood costs between $150 and $500, with kiln-dried hardwood at the higher end due to its efficiency and cleaner burn. If you see a “truckload” or “face cord” priced unusually low, always verify the measurements; what seems like a deal may not be a full cord. For reliable quality and accurate quantities, buy from trusted suppliers like Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, which provides clearly measured, tightly stacked cords with convenient delivery options across Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
How Long Does a Cord of Firewood Last?
A full cord of hardwood can typically heat an average-sized home for 6 to 10 weeks during winter, depending on how often you use your stove or fireplace.
The lifespan varies by:
- Wood type: Hardwood lasts longer than softwood.
- Home insulation: Well-insulated homes use less.
- Burn habits: overnight fires consume more.
How much firewood you need depends on your heating habits and the size of your home. If you rely solely on wood heat, expect to use 3–5 cords per winter season in New England climates.
Buying Firewood Safely and Smartly
Choosing the right supplier matters as much as choosing the right wood. A trusted dealer like Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply clearly states the cord measurements, wood type, and moisture level before purchase. Many homeowners lose value because they don’t verify what’s being delivered, but you can avoid that by checking these essentials before buying:
- Ask about the measurement method: Confirm you’re paying for a full cord (128 cubic feet) and not a loose truckload. Some sellers use vague terms like “load” or “pile,” which can lead to confusion or short deliveries. Always request a clear measurement or photo of the stacked wood before purchase to verify you’re getting what you paid for.
- Inspect the wood’s dryness: Look for cracked ends and lighter weight; overly damp logs indicate green wood. Properly seasoned or kiln-dried wood will have a hollow sound when knocked together and burn with less smoke. If possible, bring a moisture meter to check that the wood’s moisture content is below 20%.
- Clarify delivery and stacking details: Ensure the price includes drop-off, stacking location, or any extra fees. Some suppliers charge additional fees for carrying wood long distances or stacking it in hard-to-reach areas. Confirm these details ahead of time to avoid unexpected costs or delivery delays.
How to Store and Season Firewood
Proper storage makes a big difference in how well your wood burns. Firewood left directly on the ground absorbs moisture, grows mold, and invites insects.
Before using bullet points, remember that the goal is to protect your investment. When planning your firewood storage, consider the available space in your yard or storage area to ensure you can stack and store your wood efficiently. A few simple steps will keep your wood dry, clean, and ready to burn.
- Elevate the pile: Use pallets or a rack to keep the bottom row at least 4 inches off the ground.
- Stack in single rows with airflow: Three loosely spaced rows work better than one solid wall.
- Cover only the top: Use a waterproof cover or tarp to shield from rain while allowing ventilation on the sides.
- Maintain distance: Keep stacks at least 3 feet from walls or fences to prevent pest issues.
If you buy kiln-dried firewood, the seasoning process is already complete, but storing it properly will preserve its dryness and performance.
Conclusion
Understanding what a cord of firewood truly means helps you buy smarter, burn cleaner, and stay warmer through the cold months. From knowing how to measure a stack to comparing wood types and costs, a little knowledge ensures you get real value from every delivery.
At Old Station Outdoor & Landscape Supply, we offer premium kiln-dried firewood delivered across Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Whether you need a half cord or multiple full cords for the season, our experts guarantee clean, properly measured wood. Contact us to experience dependable quality from your trusted local supplier.
FAQs
How big is a cord of firewood?
A cord of firewood measures 4 feet high, 4 feet deep, and 8 feet long, totaling 128 cubic feet of tightly stacked wood. This size is the standard unit used for selling and measuring firewood. A full cord typically consists of three rows of 16-inch logs stacked evenly.
How much is a cord of firewood?
The price of a cord of firewood usually ranges from $150 to $500, depending on the type of wood, dryness, and region. Kiln-dried hardwood is often at the higher end due to its efficiency and cleanliness. Delivery and stacking services may also affect the total cost.
How much does a cord of firewood weigh?
A cord of firewood can weigh anywhere from 2,000 to 5,000 pounds, depending on moisture content and wood type. Kiln-dried cords weigh less because of reduced water weight, while green wood is heavier. Hardwoods like oak or maple are denser and weigh more than softwoods like pine.
What is a cord of firewood?
A cord of firewood is a standardized measurement that equals 128 cubic feet of tightly stacked logs, arranged 4 feet high, 4 feet deep, and 8 feet long. It ensures consistent volume when buying or selling wood. Understanding this helps homeowners know they’re getting a fair and full amount of firewood.
