A "full cord of firewood" is a term frequently used in the world of wood burning stoves and fireplaces. It’s crucial to understand this term to ensure you get the right amount of firewood for your heating needs. In this article, we’ll dive into the technical details of what constitutes a full cord of firewood and why it matters.
What Is a Full Cord of Firewood?
A full cord of firewood is a standardized measure of the volume of stacked firewood. It consists of a neatly stacked pile of wood that measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. This arrangement results in a total volume of 128 cubic feet (or 3.62 cubic meters) of wood.
To visualize this, picture a stack of firewood that is four feet tall, four feet wide, and extends eight feet in length. The wood pieces within this stack can vary in size, but they are typically cut and split to a length of 16 inches (41 centimeters).
Why Is It Important?
Understanding what a full cord of firewood is and what it should look like is essential for several reasons:
Fair Transactions: When buying firewood, knowing the volume of a full cord ensures you get the amount you paid for. Unscrupulous sellers may provide less wood than a full cord if you’re not vigilant.
Heating Needs: Accurate measurement of your firewood helps you plan for your heating needs. Knowing how much wood you have allows you to estimate how long your supply will last and how well it will keep you warm.
Regulatory Compliance: Some regions have regulations and laws regarding the sale of firewood by the cord. Understanding the full cord measurement ensures that you are compliant with local standards.
What’s Not a Full Cord?
To avoid misunderstandings and ensure you’re getting what you pay for, it’s important to be aware of what does not constitute a full cord of firewood. Several terms and practices fall short of the full cord measurement:
Face Cord: A face cord, also known as a rick or fireplace cord, typically measures 4 feet high and 8 feet long but is less wide, often only 16 inches. It contains about one-third of the volume of a full cord.
Stacked Wood: Sellers may stack wood in irregular piles or with less precise measurements, resulting in less wood than a full cord.
Loose or Dumped Wood: If you receive firewood in a loose or dumped fashion, it’s challenging to determine the volume accurately, and it may fall short of a full cord.
In Conclusion
Understanding the concept of a full cord of firewood is crucial when buying or using wood for heating. It provides clarity in transactions, helps you plan your heating needs, and ensures compliance with local regulations. By being aware of what constitutes a full cord, you can make informed decisions and get the right amount of firewood for your heating requirements.