Understanding the volume of firewood is a crucial aspect of efficiently operating a wood-burning stove. The term "face cord" is commonly used when buying firewood, but it can be confusing for both newcomers and seasoned users. In this article, we’ll dive into the specifics of a face cord and explain how many cubic feet of wood it typically contains. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of what you’re getting when you purchase a face cord of wood.
What Is a Face Cord?
A face cord is a unit of firewood measurement often used for the sale of firewood. Unlike a full cord, which consists of a specific volume of wood (128 cubic feet), a face cord is a stack of firewood that typically measures 8 feet in length and 4 feet in height. However, the depth of a face cord can vary, and this is where some confusion arises.
Depth Variations
The depth of a face cord can differ depending on the region and the supplier. There are generally three common depths for a face cord:
One-Third Face Cord: This is the most common and traditional definition of a face cord. It has a depth of approximately 16 inches. When you stack the firewood, it forms a single row, 8 feet long and 4 feet high.
Half Face Cord: Some suppliers offer a face cord with a depth of around 24 inches. This results in a stack of firewood that is 8 feet long, 4 feet high, and 2 feet deep.
Quarter Face Cord: In some cases, a quarter face cord is available with a depth of about 12 inches. This stack will be 8 feet long, 4 feet high, and 1 foot deep.
How to Calculate Cubic Feet
Now that you’re aware of the variations in face cord depth, let’s calculate how many cubic feet of wood you get in each case:
One-Third Face Cord: 8 feet (length) x 4 feet (height) x 1.33 feet (depth) = approximately 42.56 cubic feet.
Half Face Cord: 8 feet (length) x 4 feet (height) x 2 feet (depth) = 64 cubic feet.
Quarter Face Cord: 8 feet (length) x 4 feet (height) x 1 foot (depth) = 32 cubic feet.
It’s important to note that the cubic footage can vary slightly based on how the wood is stacked and its dimensions. These calculations provide a good estimate for standard stacking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the volume of wood in a face cord can vary depending on the depth you choose or the supplier offers. It’s essential to clarify the depth when purchasing a face cord of wood to know exactly how much firewood you’ll receive. Now that you understand the different depths and how to calculate cubic feet, you can make informed decisions when buying firewood for your wood-burning stove. Properly managing your firewood supply ensures you have a warm and cozy home during the colder months.