How Do You Measure A Cord Of Firewood? (7 Pro Arborist Tips)

Ah, firewood – the lifeblood of a cozy winter evening, the fuel for a crackling campfire, and a constant companion in the lives of many who appreciate the simple warmth of a wood-burning stove. But before you can enjoy that comforting heat, you need to understand how to measure a cord of firewood. This might sound straightforward, but trust me, there’s more to it than meets the eye. As a seasoned arborist and someone who’s spent countless hours processing wood, I can tell you that accurately measuring firewood is crucial, not just for fair transactions but also for efficient storage and proper burning. Let’s dive in, and I’ll share my pro tips to ensure you’re getting what you pay for – and that you know exactly how much wood you have on hand.

How Do You Measure a Cord of Firewood? (7 Pro Arborist Tips)

The opportunity here is simple: avoid getting shortchanged, maximize your storage space, and ensure you have enough fuel to last through the season. It’s about knowing the ins and outs of firewood measurement, from the basic definitions to the practical techniques I’ve honed over years of experience.

1. Understanding the Basics: What Exactly is a Cord?

Let’s start with the definition. A “cord” is a precisely defined unit of measurement for firewood. It’s crucial to understand this before we go any further.

Official Definition: A standard cord of firewood is defined as a neatly stacked pile measuring 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. This equates to 128 cubic feet.
Why It Matters: This standardized measurement ensures fair transactions. Whether you’re buying or selling, knowing the exact dimensions of a cord provides a common ground.
My Experience: I remember early on, I was helping a friend cut and stack firewood. We thought we had a cord, but after meticulously measuring, we realized we were a bit short. That experience taught me the importance of precision.
Key Terms:
- Full Cord: As described above, 4’ x 4’ x 8’ = 128 cubic feet.
- Face Cord (or Rick): A stack 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but the width is variable. Often, it’s the length of the firewood pieces. This is a common point of confusion, as sellers might use “face cord” when they really mean a portion of a full cord.
- Loose Cord: This is a pile of unstacked wood. It’s difficult to accurately estimate the volume of a loose cord, and I strongly advise against buying firewood this way.
- Green Wood: Freshly cut wood that has a high moisture content.
- Seasoned Wood: Wood that has been properly dried, typically for 6-12 months, reducing its moisture content and making it burn more efficiently.

2. Tools of the Trade: What You’ll Need

To accurately measure your firewood, you’ll need a few basic tools:

Measuring Tape: A durable, long measuring tape (at least 25 feet) is essential. I prefer a steel tape measure for its durability.
Straight Edge: A long, straight piece of wood or a level can help ensure your stack is even and square.
Calculator: For calculating the volume of your stack if it’s not a perfect cord.
Notepad and Pen: To record your measurements and calculations.
My Preferred Tools: Over the years, I’ve found that a laser measuring tool can be incredibly useful for quickly and accurately measuring large stacks. While not essential, it saves a lot of time and reduces the chance of error.

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring a Stacked Cord

Now, let’s get into the practical steps of measuring a stacked cord of firewood.

Step 1: Prepare the Area: Choose a level surface for your stack. This will ensure accurate measurements.
Step 2: Stack the Wood Neatly: A well-stacked pile is crucial for accurate measurement. Make sure the wood is tightly packed, with minimal gaps.
Step 3: Measure the Height: Measure the height of the stack from the ground to the top. Take several measurements along the length of the stack and average them to account for any unevenness.
Step 4: Measure the Width: Measure the width of the stack, ensuring you’re measuring the deepest point of the wood pieces. Again, take multiple measurements and average them.
Step 5: Measure the Length: Measure the length of the stack along the ground.
Step 6: Calculate the Volume: Multiply the height, width, and length to get the volume in cubic feet.
- Formula: Volume (cubic feet) = Height (feet) x Width (feet) x Length (feet)
Step 7: Compare to a Standard Cord: If the calculated volume is close to 128 cubic feet, you have a full cord. If it’s less, you have a partial cord.
Example: Let’s say you have a stack of wood that measures 4 feet high, 3 feet wide, and 8 feet long.
- Volume = 4 feet x 3 feet x 8 feet = 96 cubic feet
- This is less than a full cord (128 cubic feet), so you have a partial cord. To determine what fraction of a cord you have, divide the calculated volume by 128.
- Fraction of a cord = 96 cubic feet / 128 cubic feet = 0.75
- You have 0.75 of a cord, or three-quarters of a cord.

4. Dealing with Uneven Stacks: Averaging and Adjustments

Firewood stacks are rarely perfectly even. Here’s how to handle those situations:

Averaging Measurements: As mentioned earlier, take multiple measurements for height, width, and length, and then average them. This will help you get a more accurate representation of the stack’s overall dimensions.
Estimating Gaps: If there are significant gaps in the stack, try to estimate the total volume of those gaps and subtract it from the overall volume. This is admittedly subjective, but it’s better than ignoring the gaps altogether.
Accounting for Irregular Shapes: If the stack has an irregular shape, try to break it down into smaller, more regular sections, measure each section separately, and then add the volumes together.
My Tip: When dealing with uneven stacks, I often use a combination of averaging and visual estimation. It’s not an exact science, but with practice, you can get reasonably accurate results.

5. Understanding Face Cords (Ricks) and Partial Cords

Face cords, also known as ricks, are a common source of confusion. Here’s what you need to know:

Defining a Face Cord: A face cord is a stack of firewood that is 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but the width (the length of the firewood pieces) can vary.
Calculating the Volume of a Face Cord: To calculate the volume of a face cord, multiply the height, width, and length.
- Example: If you have a face cord that is 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and the firewood pieces are 16 inches (1.33 feet) long, the volume would be:
  - Volume = 4 feet x 8 feet x 1.33 feet = 42.56 cubic feet
Converting a Face Cord to a Fraction of a Full Cord: To determine what fraction of a full cord a face cord represents, divide the volume of the face cord by 128.
- Fraction of a cord = 42.56 cubic feet / 128 cubic feet = 0.33
- This face cord is approximately one-third of a full cord.
Beware of Misleading Terminology: Some sellers may use the term “face cord” loosely, so always clarify the exact dimensions of the stack before making a purchase.
My Advice: Always ask for the dimensions of the stack, not just whether it’s a “face cord” or a “rick.” This will help you avoid misunderstandings and ensure you’re getting a fair price.

6. The Importance of Seasoned Wood and Moisture Content

The type of wood and its moisture content significantly impact its burning efficiency and heat output.

Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood:
- Green Wood: Freshly cut wood has a high moisture content (often 50% or more). It’s difficult to light, produces a lot of smoke, and burns inefficiently.
- Seasoned Wood: Wood that has been properly dried has a lower moisture content (ideally below 20%). It’s easier to light, produces less smoke, and burns hotter and more efficiently.
Why Seasoning Matters: Seasoning reduces the moisture content, allowing the wood to burn more cleanly and efficiently. This means you’ll get more heat from each piece of wood, and you’ll reduce the buildup of creosote in your chimney (which can be a fire hazard).
How to Season Wood:
- Split the Wood: Splitting the wood increases the surface area exposed to the air, speeding up the drying process.
- Stack the Wood Properly: Stack the wood in a single row, off the ground, with good air circulation.
- Allow Time for Drying: The drying time varies depending on the type of wood, the climate, and the stacking method. Generally, hardwoods like oak and maple need at least 6-12 months to season properly, while softwoods like pine may only need 3-6 months.
Measuring Moisture Content: A moisture meter can be used to measure the moisture content of the wood. Simply insert the probes into a freshly split piece of wood and read the percentage.
My Experience: I’ve seen firsthand the difference between burning green wood and seasoned wood. Green wood is a frustrating, smoky mess, while seasoned wood burns hot and clean. Taking the time to properly season your wood is well worth the effort.
Wood Type Considerations: Different wood types have different burning characteristics and seasoning times. Hardwoods generally burn longer and hotter than softwoods, but they also take longer to season.
- Hardwoods: Oak, maple, ash, beech, birch.
- Softwoods: Pine, fir, spruce, cedar.

7. Buying Firewood: Tips for a Fair Transaction

Buying firewood can be tricky, but here are some tips to ensure you get a fair deal:

Ask for a Full Cord: Be specific about wanting a full cord (128 cubic feet).
Verify the Dimensions: Don’t just rely on the seller’s word. Ask for the exact dimensions of the stack and calculate the volume yourself.
Inspect the Wood: Look for signs of rot, insect infestation, or excessive moisture.
Ask About Seasoning: Ask the seller how long the wood has been seasoned and how it was stored.
Get a Receipt: A receipt should include the date of purchase, the quantity of wood, the price, and the seller’s contact information.
Consider a Moisture Meter: If you’re concerned about the moisture content, bring a moisture meter with you when you inspect the wood.
Compare Prices: Get quotes from multiple sellers to ensure you’re getting a competitive price.
My Personal Story: I once bought what I thought was a full cord of oak, only to discover that it was mostly maple and birch, and it was far from seasoned. I learned my lesson the hard way: always inspect the wood and verify the dimensions before paying.
Cost Considerations: Firewood prices vary depending on the region, the type of wood, and the time of year. Be aware of the average prices in your area so you can spot a good deal or avoid being overcharged.

Case Study: Optimizing Firewood Drying with Solar Kilns

I once consulted with a small-scale firewood business struggling with long drying times, especially during humid summers. Their traditional air-drying method was taking over a year to properly season hardwoods, leading to inventory bottlenecks and lost sales.

Problem: Inefficient air drying resulted in slow turnover and increased storage costs.

Solution: I proposed building a small, passive solar kiln using readily available materials like lumber, plastic sheeting, and repurposed windows. The kiln was designed to maximize solar gain and natural ventilation.

Implementation:

Kiln Construction: We built a small greenhouse-like structure (12′ x 8′ x 6′) with a south-facing transparent wall to capture sunlight.
Stacking Method: Firewood was stacked inside the kiln with ample spacing for air circulation.
Ventilation: Vents were placed at the top and bottom of the kiln to promote natural convection.
Monitoring: We used temperature and humidity sensors to monitor the kiln’s performance.

Results:

Drying Time Reduced: Drying time for hardwoods was reduced from over a year to approximately 3-4 months.
Improved Wood Quality: The kiln drying process resulted in more consistent moisture content and reduced the risk of mold and decay.
Increased Sales: The business was able to increase its sales volume by having a faster turnaround of seasoned firewood.

Key Takeaway: This case study demonstrates how a simple, low-cost solar kiln can significantly improve firewood drying efficiency, benefiting both small businesses and individual users.

Chainsaw and Log Splitter Selection for Efficient Firewood Processing

Choosing the right tools can dramatically increase efficiency and reduce physical strain when processing firewood.

Chainsaws:
- Size and Power: For general firewood cutting, a chainsaw with a 16-18 inch bar and a 40-50cc engine is usually sufficient. For larger trees, you might need a more powerful saw with a longer bar.
- Types: Consider a gas-powered chainsaw for heavy-duty work or an electric chainsaw for lighter tasks and quieter operation. Battery-powered chainsaws are also becoming increasingly popular.
- Safety Features: Look for features like a chain brake, anti-vibration system, and easy chain tensioning.
- My Recommendation: I personally use a Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss for most of my firewood cutting. It’s a reliable, powerful saw that can handle a variety of tasks.
Log Splitters:
- Manual vs. Hydraulic: Manual log splitters are cheaper but require significant physical effort. Hydraulic log splitters are more expensive but can split logs much more quickly and easily.
- Tonnage: Choose a log splitter with enough tonnage to handle the size and type of wood you’ll be splitting. A 20-25 ton splitter is usually sufficient for most firewood applications.
- Orientation: Horizontal log splitters are more common and easier to use, while vertical log splitters are better for splitting large, heavy logs.
- My Preference: I prefer a hydraulic log splitter for its efficiency and reduced physical strain. I use a 25-ton splitter, which can handle almost any log I throw at it.
Tool Specifications:
- Chainsaw:
  - Engine Size: 40-50cc
  - Bar Length: 16-18 inches
  - Weight: 10-15 lbs
- Log Splitter:
  - Tonnage: 20-25 tons
  - Cycle Time: 10-15 seconds
  - Engine: 6-8 HP
Safety Considerations: Always wear appropriate safety gear when using chainsaws and log splitters, including eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy boots. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Debarking Logs for Faster Drying and Cleaner Burning

Debarking logs before splitting and seasoning can offer several advantages.

Benefits of Debarking:
- Faster Drying: Removing the bark allows moisture to escape more easily from the wood, reducing drying time.
- Cleaner Burning: Bark can contain dirt, insects, and other contaminants that can create more smoke and ash when burned.
- Reduced Insect Infestation: Bark can provide a habitat for insects that can damage the wood.
Debarking Tools and Techniques:
- Drawknife: A traditional tool for removing bark, requiring skill and practice.
- Spud: A specialized tool for peeling bark from logs.
- Chainsaw: Can be used to carefully remove bark, but requires caution to avoid damaging the wood.
- Pressure Washer: A high-pressure washer can be effective for removing loose bark.
My Method: I typically use a combination of a drawknife and a spud for debarking logs. It’s a bit more labor-intensive, but it allows me to remove the bark cleanly and efficiently.
Strategic Advantages: Debarking is particularly beneficial for thicker-barked species like oak, as it significantly speeds up the drying process.

Drying Methods Compared: Air Drying vs. Kiln Drying

Choosing the right drying method can significantly impact the quality and efficiency of your firewood.

Air Drying:
- Pros: Low cost, simple setup, minimal energy input.
- Cons: Long drying times (6-12 months), weather dependent, susceptible to mold and decay.
- Best Practices: Stack wood off the ground in a single row with good air circulation. Cover the top of the stack to protect it from rain and snow.
Kiln Drying:
- Pros: Faster drying times (weeks instead of months), more consistent moisture content, reduces the risk of mold and decay.
- Cons: Higher cost, requires specialized equipment, energy intensive.
- Types: Conventional kilns, solar kilns, dehumidification kilns.
My Recommendation: For most homeowners and small-scale firewood producers, air drying is the most practical and cost-effective option. However, if you need to dry wood quickly or want to ensure a more consistent moisture content, a solar kiln can be a good investment.

Next Steps: Putting Your Knowledge into Action

Now that you understand how to measure a cord of firewood and the importance of proper seasoning, it’s time to put your knowledge into action.

Measure Your Existing Firewood: Take the time to measure your current firewood stack to determine how much you have on hand.
Season Your Wood Properly: If you have green wood, split it, stack it properly, and allow it to season for at least 6-12 months.
Shop for Firewood Wisely: When buying firewood, ask for a full cord, verify the dimensions, inspect the wood, and ask about seasoning.
Consider a Moisture Meter: Invest in a moisture meter to ensure your wood is properly seasoned.
Explore Solar Kilns: If you’re serious about firewood production, consider building or purchasing a solar kiln.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to measure your firewood accurately, season it properly, and buy it wisely. This will ensure you have a reliable source of heat for your home and that you’re getting the most out of your firewood. Remember, a little knowledge and effort can go a long way in the world of firewood.

How Do You Measure a Cord of Firewood? (7 Pro Arborist Tips)