When it comes to using a wood-burning stove, understanding the measurements of firewood is essential for efficient and economical heating. One common term you might come across is a "face cord" of wood. In this article, we will clarify what a face cord is and how to ensure you get the right amount of firewood for your wood-burning stove.
What is a Face Cord of Wood?
A face cord is a unit of measurement for firewood. It’s important to note that the term "face cord" is not a standardized measurement and can vary by region. However, the most common definition of a face cord is as follows:
- A face cord is typically 8 feet long, 4 feet high, and the width of the individual firewood logs, which is usually 16 inches.
In other words, a face cord of wood is a single stack of wood, 8 feet in length and 4 feet high, where the width of the stack is determined by the length of the individual logs used. If the logs are 16 inches long, the face cord is 16 inches wide. If the logs are 18 inches long, the face cord is 18 inches wide, and so on.
Important Considerations:
Volume, Not Quantity: It’s crucial to understand that a face cord measures the volume of wood and not the number of pieces of firewood. The number of pieces can vary depending on the diameter of the logs.
Know Your Region: As mentioned earlier, the dimensions of a face cord can vary by region. Some regions might have slightly different standards for a face cord, so it’s essential to clarify with your supplier what they mean when they use the term "face cord."
How to Calculate the Amount of Wood in a Face Cord:
To determine the amount of firewood in a face cord, you can use the following formula:
- Length (in feet) x Height (in feet) x Width (in feet) = Volume (in cubic feet)
For a standard 8x4x16-inch face cord:
- 8 feet x 4 feet x 1.33 feet (16 inches converted to feet) = 42.56 cubic feet
So, a face cord with 16-inch logs contains approximately 42.56 cubic feet of wood.
Selecting the Right Amount of Firewood:
When purchasing firewood, it’s essential to know the measurements of a face cord and clarify with your supplier to ensure you get the quantity of wood you need. A face cord is a convenient measurement for many homeowners, but you should also consider your specific heating needs, the efficiency of your wood-burning stove, and the duration of the cold season in your area when deciding how much firewood to buy.
In conclusion, understanding the measurements of a face cord of wood is crucial when buying firewood for your wood-burning stove. By knowing what a face cord is and clarifying the dimensions with your supplier, you can ensure that you get the right amount of wood to keep your stove efficiently heating your home throughout the winter.