How Do You Measure Firewood? (5 Expert Arborist Tips)

Alright, let’s talk firewood. You know, the stuff that keeps us warm when winter howls like a pack of hungry wolves. But before you start picturing yourself basking in the glow of a crackling fire, let’s get one thing straight: measuring firewood isn’t as simple as eyeballing a pile and hoping for the best. Trust me, I’ve been there, done that, and ended up shivering more than once because my “generous” estimate fell woefully short. So, how do you accurately measure firewood? Well, that’s what I’m here to tell you, drawing on years of experience, a few close calls with chainsaws, and a whole lot of stacking.

How Do You Measure Firewood? (5 Expert Arborist Tips)

Measuring firewood accurately is crucial for several reasons. First, it ensures you’re getting what you pay for if you’re buying it. Second, it helps you plan your winter fuel needs, preventing those aforementioned chilly nights. And third, it allows you to properly store and season your wood, maximizing its heat output and minimizing smoke. So, let’s dive in.

1. Understanding the Basic Unit: The Cord

Before we get into the how-to, let’s define the most fundamental unit of firewood measurement: the cord.

What is a Cord?

A cord is a precisely defined volume of stacked wood. Specifically, it’s a stack that measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. That’s 128 cubic feet. Now, here’s the important part: this includes the air space between the logs.

Why is this important? Because a cord of neatly stacked, uniform logs will have less air space than a cord of randomly thrown-together, crooked branches. This means you get more actual wood for your money with a well-stacked cord.

My Experience: I once bought what I thought was a cord from a guy selling it out of the back of his pickup truck. Looked decent enough from a distance. But when I started stacking it, I realized it was mostly small, oddly shaped pieces. By the time I had it neatly arranged, it barely filled half the space a true cord should. Lesson learned: always check the dimensions and the quality of the wood before buying.

Variations on the Cord: Face Cord and Rick

You’ll often hear terms like “face cord” or “rick.” These are not standardized measurements and can be misleading. A face cord is typically 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but the width is variable. It’s often the length of the firewood pieces, commonly 16 inches.

The Danger: The problem is, a “face cord” can mean different things to different people. Someone might sell you a face cord that’s only 12 inches deep, while another might offer one that’s 24 inches deep. Always clarify the actual dimensions to avoid being shortchanged.

My Advice: Avoid using terms like “face cord” or “rick.” Stick to the cord measurement (4x4x8) or specify the exact cubic footage.

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

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

Measuring Tape: A good, sturdy measuring tape is essential. I prefer a steel tape measure that’s at least 25 feet long.
Marking Paint or Chalk: For marking dimensions on the wood or the ground.
String or Twine: To help create straight lines when stacking.
Calculator: For calculating cubic footage. (Your phone works just fine!)
Notebook and Pen: To record measurements and calculations.
Optional: Laser Distance Measurer: For quickly measuring distances, especially useful for large piles.

Tool Recommendation: I swear by my Stanley FatMax 25-foot tape measure. It’s durable, easy to read, and the blade stays rigid even when extended.

3. The Stacking Method: Building Your Cord

The key to accurate measurement is proper stacking. Here’s how I do it:

Step 1: Choose Your Location

Select a level area for stacking. This will ensure your measurements are accurate. Avoid uneven ground that can distort the dimensions.

My Tip: I like to stack my firewood on pallets. This keeps it off the ground, promoting airflow and preventing rot.

Step 2: Establish the Base

Start by laying down the base layer of wood. Make sure the logs are aligned and touching each other. Use your string or twine to create a straight line along the front of the stack.

Pro Tip: If you’re stacking on uneven ground, use smaller pieces of wood to level the base.

Step 3: Build the Walls

As you stack, create stable walls. Interlock the logs at the ends to prevent the stack from collapsing. This is especially important for taller stacks.

My Experience: I once had a stack of firewood collapse on me while I was working on it. Luckily, I wasn’t seriously hurt, but it was a scary experience and a lot of extra work to restack. Now I always take extra care to build strong, stable walls.

Step 4: Maintain Consistent Height and Width

Regularly check the height and width of your stack with your measuring tape. Aim for a consistent 4 feet in height and width.

Tip: Use a measuring stick or a pre-cut piece of wood to quickly check the height as you stack.

Step 5: Measure the Length

Once you’ve reached the desired height and width, measure the length of the stack. Remember, a full cord is 8 feet long.

Step 6: Adjust as Needed

If your stack is slightly shorter or longer than 8 feet, adjust the amount of wood accordingly. For example, if your stack is only 7 feet long, you have 7/8 of a cord.

Case Study: Stacking Challenges and Solutions

I had a client who wanted me to stack firewood in a very narrow space between his house and his neighbor’s fence. The challenge was that I couldn’t stack it the traditional 4 feet wide. So, I adapted the method. I stacked it 2 feet wide and 8 feet high, keeping the length at 8 feet. This still gave him a full cord of wood, but in a more compact configuration. The key was adjusting the dimensions while maintaining the overall cubic footage.

4. Calculating Partial Cords

Sometimes, you might not need or want a full cord of firewood. In that case, you’ll need to calculate the cubic footage of your stack and determine what fraction of a cord it represents.

The Formula

The formula for calculating cubic footage is:

Length (feet) x Width (feet) x Height (feet) = Cubic Feet

Example

Let’s say you have a stack of firewood that is 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 6 feet long.

4 feet x 4 feet x 6 feet = 96 cubic feet

To determine what fraction of a cord this represents, divide the cubic footage of your stack by the cubic footage of a full cord (128 cubic feet).

96 cubic feet / 128 cubic feet = 0.75

This means your stack is 0.75 of a cord, or three-quarters of a cord.

Using Online Calculators

There are also many online firewood calculators that can do the math for you. Simply enter the dimensions of your stack, and the calculator will tell you the cubic footage and the fraction of a cord.

Tool Recommendation: A simple search for “firewood calculator” will turn up plenty of options. I like using the one on the “Calculator Soup” website, as it’s straightforward and easy to use.

5. Beyond Measurement: Wood Selection, Seasoning, and Storage

Measuring firewood is only one part of the equation. To get the most out of your firewood, you also need to consider wood selection, seasoning, and storage.

Wood Selection

Different types of wood have different burning characteristics. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash are denser and burn longer and hotter than softwoods like pine and fir.

My Preference: I primarily burn oak. It’s readily available in my area, and it provides excellent heat output.

Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood is freshly cut wood that has a high moisture content. It’s difficult to light, produces a lot of smoke, and doesn’t burn efficiently. Seasoned wood, on the other hand, has been dried for at least six months to a year. It’s easier to light, burns cleaner, and produces more heat.

Seasoning Firewood

Seasoning is the process of drying firewood. To season firewood properly, you need to:

Split the Wood: Splitting the wood increases the surface area exposed to the air, speeding up the drying process.
Stack the Wood: Stack the wood in a single row, allowing air to circulate freely around the logs.
Elevate the Wood: Keep the wood off the ground to prevent moisture from wicking up from the soil.
Cover the Wood (Optional): Covering the top of the stack can protect it from rain and snow, but make sure the sides are still exposed to allow for ventilation.

Drying Times: Drying times vary depending on the type of wood, the climate, and the stacking method. Generally, hardwoods take longer to season than softwoods. In a dry climate, six months to a year may be sufficient. In a humid climate, it may take longer.

Moisture Content: The ideal moisture content for firewood is between 15% and 20%. You can use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of your wood.

Tool Recommendation: I use a General Tools MMD4E digital moisture meter. It’s affordable and easy to use.

Storage

Store your seasoned firewood in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid storing it directly on the ground or against a wall, as this can trap moisture and promote rot.

My Setup: I store my firewood in a woodshed with a roof and open sides. This protects it from the elements while allowing for good airflow.

Safety First: Chainsaws, Axes, and Log Splitters

Working with firewood can be dangerous if you’re not careful. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including:

Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes from flying debris.
Hearing Protection: To protect your ears from the noise of chainsaws and other equipment.
Gloves: To protect your hands from cuts and splinters.
Steel-Toed Boots: To protect your feet from falling logs.
Chainsaw Chaps: If you’re using a chainsaw, wear chainsaw chaps to protect your legs from accidental cuts.

Chainsaw Safety

Read the Manual: Before using a chainsaw, read the manufacturer’s manual and understand the safety features.
Inspect the Chainsaw: Regularly inspect your chainsaw for damage. Make sure the chain is sharp and properly tensioned.
Use Proper Technique: Use proper cutting techniques to avoid kickback. Keep both hands on the saw and maintain a firm grip.
Clear the Area: Before cutting, clear the area of obstacles and make sure you have a clear escape route.
Never Cut Above Your Head: Avoid cutting above your head, as this is a common cause of accidents.

Axe Safety

Choose the Right Axe: Use an axe that is appropriate for the task. A splitting axe is designed for splitting wood, while a felling axe is designed for felling trees.
Maintain a Sharp Edge: Keep your axe sharp. A dull axe is more likely to glance off the wood and cause an accident.
Use a Sturdy Chopping Block: Use a sturdy chopping block that is at least 12 inches in diameter.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance from others when swinging an axe.
Swing with Control: Swing the axe with control and avoid overswinging.

Log Splitter Safety

Read the Manual: Before using a log splitter, read the manufacturer’s manual and understand the safety features.
Wear Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses when operating a log splitter.
Keep Hands Clear: Keep your hands clear of the splitting wedge and the log.
Use Proper Lifting Techniques: Use proper lifting techniques to avoid back injuries.
Never Override Safety Devices: Never override the safety devices on a log splitter.

Tool Recommendation: I have a 27-ton hydraulic log splitter. It makes splitting even the toughest hardwoods a breeze. While more expensive than manual options, the increase in efficiency and reduction in strain is significant.

Strategic Insights: Maximizing Efficiency and Value

Beyond the basic techniques, here are some strategic insights I’ve gained over the years:

Buy in Bulk: If you have the space, buying firewood in bulk can save you money. Negotiate with suppliers, especially if you’re buying green wood and seasoning it yourself.
Consider Cordwood Stacking: Cordwood stacking (also known as holz hausen) is a traditional method of stacking firewood in a circular pattern. It’s visually appealing and promotes good airflow, but it requires more space and skill to build.
Use a Firewood Processor: If you process a lot of firewood, consider investing in a firewood processor. These machines can cut, split, and convey firewood in a single operation, significantly increasing efficiency.
Sell Excess Firewood: If you have more firewood than you need, consider selling the excess. This can help offset the cost of your firewood operation.

Case Study: Scaling Up a Small Firewood Business

I consulted with a small-scale logging business that wanted to expand into firewood production. They had the equipment and the access to timber, but they lacked the knowledge and experience to efficiently process and market firewood.

I helped them develop a business plan that included:

Investing in a Firewood Processor: This significantly increased their production capacity.
Implementing a Seasoning and Storage System: This ensured they were selling high-quality, seasoned firewood.
Developing a Marketing Strategy: This included online advertising, local partnerships, and direct sales.

Within a year, their firewood business had become a significant source of revenue, complementing their existing logging operations.

Next Steps: Getting Started

Ready to start measuring and stacking your own firewood? Here’s what I recommend:

Gather Your Tools: Get a measuring tape, marking paint, string, calculator, and notebook.
Choose Your Wood: Decide what type of wood you want to burn and source it from a reputable supplier.
Select a Stacking Location: Choose a level, well-drained area for stacking your firewood.
Start Stacking: Follow the steps outlined above to build a stable and accurately measured stack.
Season Your Wood: Split, stack, and elevate your firewood to allow it to season properly.
Enjoy Your Fire: Once your wood is seasoned, enjoy the warmth and comfort of a crackling fire!

Measuring firewood isn’t just about counting logs; it’s about understanding volume, efficiency, and ultimately, staying warm and safe through the winter. So, grab your tape measure, put on your gloves, and get stacking! You’ll be a firewood pro in no time. And remember, a well-stacked cord is a happy cord (and a happy homeowner!).