What is a Full Cord of Firewood?

A full cord of firewood, also called a bush cord, is the standard unit for selling firewood. This tightly stacked pile typically measures:

• 4 feet wide
• 4 feet tall
• 8 feet long

The total volume of a full cord is 128 cubic feet, but it's important to note that the solid wood content will be around 85 cubic feet, with the remaining space taken up by air gaps between the logs. This cubic feet measurement is critical when comparing prices and understanding how much firewood is in a cord.

Face Cord vs. Full Cord of Firewood: What's the Difference?

The term face cord can be confusing, as it refers to a smaller volume of wood than a full cord, but it still uses the same height and length. A face cord typically has a volume of 32 cubic feet, but the exact amount depends on the length of the firewood pieces.

At Van Beek's, we offer two types of face cords:

Dimensions of a Face Cord at Van Beek's

12-inch Firewood Face Cord: Measures 4 feet tall, 8 feet long, and 12 inches deep, giving you a total volume of 32 cubic feet.

16-inch Firewood Face Cord: Measures 4 feet tall, 6 feet long, and 16 inches deep, also resulting in a total volume of 32 cubic feet.

These variations are designed to accommodate different firewood needs, whether using a fireplace, stove, or outdoor fire pit. The shorter, 12-inch face cord is ideal for smaller appliances, while the 16-inch face cord suits larger fireplaces.

How Does a Face Cord Compare to a Full Cord?

A full cord has a total volume of 128 cubic feet, while a face cord provides just a fraction. Typically, a face cord is one-third the size of a full cord, but it's essential to check the depth of the pile, as it can vary. For example, our 16-inch firewood face cord is a standard size for residential use, and its volume is significantly smaller than a full cord, making it more manageable for shorter-term needs.

If you're buying firewood by the face cord, you must understand how much wood you're receiving based on the measurement of cubic feet. Always compare the volume to ensure you're getting the right amount of wood for your money.

Common Terms You Should Know

Along with face cord and full cord, you may encounter terms like:

Stove Cord: Firewood cut into shorter lengths, usually for stoves.

Rick Cord: Another word for a face cord of firewood, often used interchangeably.

Half Face Cord of Firewood: A Smaller Option

If you're not looking for a full face cord, a half face cord is a convenient option. This smaller pile offers the same height and length but only half the depth. A half face cord is ideal for those who occasionally use firewood for a small fireplace or outdoor fire.

Van Beek's Half Face Cord

12-inch Firewood Face Cord: Measures 4 feet tall, 4 feet wide and 12 inches deep to give you 16 cubic feet of firewood.

16-inch Firewood Face Cord: Measures 4 feet tall, 3 feet wide and 16 inches deep to give you 16 cubic feet of firewood.

If a Half Face Cord is still too much, Van Beek's offers a smaller size called a Triangle. This size is a quarter of the volume of a face cord, at eight cubic feet.

Different Firewood Sizes and Cuts for Home Use

When purchasing firewood, understanding the different cuts and sizes can make a big difference in how efficiently the wood burns and how easy it is to store.

Standard Firewood Lengths

At Van Beek's, we offer two standard firewood sizes:

12-inch Firewood: This size is easy to manage and stack for smaller fireplaces and stoves.

16-inch Firewood: A popular choice for most residential fireplaces and stoves, providing a longer burn time compared to shorter pieces.

Choosing the Right Size for Your Fireplace or Stove

Choosing the correct firewood size for your heating appliance is crucial for efficient burning and proper heat output. For smaller stoves, 12-inch firewood may be the best option, while larger fireplaces can accommodate 16-inch pieces for longer-lasting fires.

Thrown Cord and Green Cord: What You Need to Know

Thrown Cord Dimensions and Volume

A thrown cord of firewood refers to wood that is tossed loosely into a pile or truck. A thrown cord typically takes up around 180 cubic feet of space, compared to a neatly stacked cord's 128 cubic feet. While it may seem like more wood at first glance, a thrown cord will settle into about the same volume as a full cord when properly stacked.

What is a Green Cord?

A green cord is firewood that hasn't been dried or seasoned. Freshly cut wood contains moisture, which causes it to shrink during drying. Green firewood can lose 6–8% of its volume as it dries, so you could get less wood than it initially appears. Be sure to clarify whether the firewood you're purchasing has been seasoned.

Tips for Buying Firewood by the Cord

How to Measure Firewood Properly

To ensure you're getting the right amount of wood, always measure the height, width, and depth of the pile. For a full cord of firewood, the measurements should be 4 feet high, 4 feet deep, and 8 feet long. A face cord is shallower, typically measuring 12 or 16 inches deep, depending on the wood length.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

When buying firewood, avoiding non-standard measurements like "truckloads" or "piles" is crucial, as these can often result in receiving less wood than expected. Stick to regulated measurements such as cords or face cords, where the volume is clearly defined. This ensures you get the right amount of firewood for your needs.

At Van Beek's, we sell firewood in several formats to suit your needs:

• You can have firewood dumped loose directly from our delivery trucks.
• Alternatively, we offer delivery in large Super Sacs. These convenient bags keep your wood neatly contained and can be stored easily until you're ready to use it.

In either case, Van Beek's adheres to our standard volume measurements, so whether your wood is delivered loose or in a Super Sac, you'll know exactly how much you are getting—measured in cubic feet, the most reliable way to ensure you're receiving the right amount of firewood.

In addition to purchasing the right amount of firewood, it's equally important to consider buying Kindling. Starting a fire can be challenging, especially with larger logs. Bagged Kindling provides smaller, dry pieces of wood that are perfect for getting your fire started quickly and efficiently. Having Kindling on hand saves time and frustration and ensures a smooth, consistent burn.

Firewood Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much firewood do I need this winter?

Generally, we estimate that a 1000 sq.ft house uses roughly three cords of firewood over a typical winter, so you can use this as a baseline to determine how much you’ll really need. Keep in mind that the number could vary depending on how often you use firewood.

How much firewood is in a cord?

A full cord contains 128 cubic feet of stacked wood and is typically 8 feet wide, 4 feet tall and 4 feet deep. It's important to note that the solid wood content will be around 85 cubic feet, with the remaining space taken up by air gaps between the logs.

A face cord has 32 cubic feet and is typically 8 feet wide and 4 feet tall.

What is the difference between a full cord and a face cord?

A full cord has a depth of 4 feet, while a face cord typically has a depth of 12 to 16 inches, depending on the firewood piece length.

At Van Beek's, a full cord contains 128 cubic feet of firewood, while a Face Cord contains 32 cubic feet.

What is a half face cord?

A half face cord has the same height and length as a full face cord but only half the depth.

How can I tell if I'm getting the right amount of firewood?

Measure the stack's height, width, and depth to match the advertised volume. A full cord of firewood should be 128 cubic feet, while a face cord should be 32 cubic feet.

What is a green cord?

A green cord refers to unseasoned wood that can shrink by 6-8% as it dries.

What's the best firewood size for home heating?

For smaller stoves, 12-inch firewood is recommended, while larger fireplaces can handle 16-inch firewood for longer burn times.