Ever been shopping for firewood and saw the term “cord of wood“ and wondered what it actually means? You’re not alone. Whether you’re heating your home, prepping for winter, or working in the lumber industry, understanding the dimensions of a cord of wood helps you make smarter buying choices and avoid getting shortchanged.
“In the firewood industry, a full cord of wood is usually measured as 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. That adds up to 128 cubic feet of firewood.”
In this guide, we’ll break it all down in simple terms: what a cord of wood is, how big it really is, how it’s measured, and how to make sure you’re getting the right amount. Let’s dive in!
What Is a Cord of Wood?
A cord of wood is the standard unit used to measure stacked firewood. It’s commonly used in North America and is legally defined in many states and provinces.
Standard Cord Dimensions:
- Width: 8 feet
- Height: 4 feet
- Depth: 4 feet
- Total Volume: 128 cubic feet of stacked wood (including air gaps)
This is known as a “full cord” or “standard cord.”
Why Knowing Cord Dimensions Is Important
Here’s why it pays to understand this unit:
- Helps you compare prices between sellers fairly
- Prevents you from being shorted on firewood
- Ensures you’re storing enough wood for the winter
- Aids in calculating storage space or transport needs
Common Variations of a Cord
Depending on how the wood is cut and stacked, cords come in different forms. Here’s a quick breakdown:
1. Full Cord
- 4 ft high × 4 ft deep × 8 ft long
- 128 cubic feet (standard size)
2. Face Cord (Rick)
- Same height and length, but only 16 inches deep (one row)
- Typically ⅓ of a full cord
3. Half Cord
- Half the volume of a full cord: 4 ft × 4 ft × 4 ft
- Equals 64 cubic feet
4. Thrown Cord (Loose Thrown Cord)
- Wood is tossed loosely into a container
- Typically used for delivery or transport
- May appear larger but actually contains less solid wood due to air gaps
🔥 Pro Tip: A “face cord” might sound like a great deal, but make sure you know the depth of the stack to calculate true volume!
How to Measure a Cord of Wood Yourself
Want to double-check what you’re buying? Here’s how to measure:
- Measure the stack’s height, length, and depth
- Multiply all three numbers (in feet)
- If it equals 128 cubic feet, it’s a full cord!
Example:
- 4 ft (height) × 4 ft (depth) × 8 ft (length) = 128 cu ft
- If your stack measures 4 ft × 8 ft × 2 ft = 64 cu ft → That’s a half cord.
How Much Firewood Do You Need?
It depends on:
- Home size
- Type of wood (softwood burns faster, hardwood lasts longer)
- Climate
- Usage (occasional vs. regular heating)
General Guidelines:
- Small home, occasional fires: 1–2 cords per winter
- Regular heating, medium home: 3–5 cords
- Larger homes or colder regions: 6+ cords
Storing a Cord of Wood: What You Need to Know
Storing wood properly keeps it dry and usable. Here’s how to store it:
- Elevate the wood off the ground (use a pallet or firewood rack)
- Stack it neatly with space between logs for airflow
- Cover the top (not the sides) with a tarp to keep moisture out
- Store in a well-ventilated area, away from your home to avoid pests
🪵 Tip: Allow wood to season (dry out) for 6–12 months before burning for the best results.
Hardwood vs. Softwood in a Cord
- Not all cords are created equal! The type of wood impacts how much heat you get.
Hardwood (e.g., oak, maple, hickory)
- Burns longer and hotter
- Ideal for cold climates or home heating
Softwood (e.g., pine, fir)
- Burns faster, easier to light
- Better for campfires or kindling
Cord of Wood Pricing: What to Expect
Prices can vary widely depending on:
- Location
- Wood type
- Season (winter demand raises prices)
Average U.S. Cord Pricing:
- Hardwood Cord: $250–$500
- Softwood Cord: $150–$300
- Face Cord: $75–$150
Always ask if the price is for a full cord or partial cord to avoid surprises!
Cord of Wood FAQs
❓ Is a face cord the same as a full cord?
- No. A face cord is typically ⅓ the size of a full cord. Make sure you know the depth.
❓ Can a cord of wood fit in a pickup truck?
- Not usually. A standard pickup bed may only fit about ½ to ¾ of a cord when stacked.
❓ How much does a cord of wood weigh?
- Hardwood: 2,500–3,000 pounds
- Softwood: 2,000–2,500 pounds
Real-Life Example: Buying a Cord of Wood
Imagine you’re buying wood from a local supplier who says they’ll deliver a “cord.” You receive a pile that looks about 4 ft high and 8 ft long, but only 1 row deep. That’s likely a face cord, not a full one.
By knowing that a full cord needs to be 4 ft deep, you can ask the right questions—and make sure you’re getting what you pay for.
Conclusion: Be Cord Smart
Understanding cord of wood dimensions can save you money, hassle, and cold nights. Now that you know the difference between a full cord, face cord, and thrown cord and how to measure one you’re ready to make smarter choices.
Whether you’re stocking up for winter or comparing firewood suppliers, always measure, ask questions, and understand what you’re getting.