Introduction:
Face cords, often mentioned in the world of firewood and wood-burning stoves, play a critical role in ensuring you have the right amount of wood for your heating needs. In this article, we will provide clear and concise information on face cord dimensions, helping both technical and non-technical readers understand this essential concept.
Face Cord Dimensions:
What Is a Face Cord?
- A face cord is a unit of measurement for firewood. It’s a stack of wood that measures 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and the width of a single piece of firewood. The key point is the length; it’s 8 feet long.
Width Variability:
- The width of a face cord can vary depending on the size of the individual firewood pieces. Commonly, firewood is cut into 16-inch lengths, but it can range from 12 to 24 inches. Therefore, the width of a face cord depends on the size of the firewood you’re using.
Stacking Method:
- To create a face cord, the wood is stacked with the pieces parallel and touching, resulting in a single row of firewood. Typically, this stack is 4 feet high and 8 feet long, making it a third of a full cord of wood.
Understanding the Face Cord vs. Full Cord:
- A full cord of wood measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. It contains 128 cubic feet of wood.
- A face cord is a third of a full cord in terms of volume and typically contains 42.67 cubic feet (128/3).
Calculating the Amount of Firewood You Need:
When purchasing firewood, it’s crucial to understand the difference between a face cord and a full cord to ensure you get the right amount for your heating needs. Here’s how to calculate the amount you need:
Measure the space you intend to store the firewood in cubic feet (length x width x height).
Check the face cord dimensions from your supplier. If a face cord contains 42.67 cubic feet, divide the total space you have by 42.67 to determine how many face cords you need.
If you need a full cord, simply multiply the number of face cords by three.
Conclusion:
Understanding face cord dimensions is essential for anyone using a wood-burning stove or fireplace. It ensures you purchase the right amount of firewood for your heating needs, preventing you from running out during the winter months. Keep in mind that the width of a face cord can vary, so be clear with your supplier about the size of the firewood pieces they provide. By following these guidelines, you’ll stay warm and cozy all season long.