For those who rely on wood burning stoves as a primary heat source, understanding the terminology and measurements associated with firewood is crucial. One common question that arises is, "How many face cords are in a full cord?" In this article, we’ll provide a clear and concise explanation to help you navigate the world of cord measurements.
What is a Cord?
A cord is a standard unit of measurement for firewood. It is widely used to determine the quantity of wood you are purchasing or storing. A full cord of firewood measures 128 cubic feet. This volume is typically organized into a neatly stacked rectangular shape, with the following dimensions: 4 feet in height, 4 feet in width, and 8 feet in length. It is essential to note that the term "cord" should only be used when referring to this specific measurement of firewood.
What is a Face Cord?
A face cord is a term used to describe a stack of firewood that is one-third the volume of a full cord. While a full cord measures 128 cubic feet, a face cord is one-third of that, or 42.67 cubic feet. The dimensions of a typical face cord can vary, depending on the length of the firewood. For standard 16-inch logs, a face cord typically has dimensions of 4 feet in height, 8 feet in width, and 16 inches in length.
How Many Face Cords Are in a Full Cord?
To determine how many face cords are in a full cord, you can simply divide the volume of a full cord by the volume of a face cord:
128 cubic feet (full cord) / 42.67 cubic feet (face cord) = approximately 3 face cords in a full cord.
So, there are approximately three face cords in a full cord of firewood. This means that if you purchase or stack a full cord of firewood, you can expect it to yield three face cords when divided.
It’s important to keep in mind that face cords can vary in dimensions based on the length of the logs, so the number of face cords in a full cord will remain roughly the same, but the specific dimensions may change.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between a full cord and a face cord is crucial when buying or storing firewood for your wood burning stove. A full cord measures 128 cubic feet, while a face cord is one-third of that volume. In practical terms, a full cord will yield approximately three face cords when divided. By being aware of these measurements, you can accurately estimate the amount of firewood you need to keep your wood stove running efficiently throughout the heating season.