What Is a Rank of Wood? (5 Firewood Terms You Must Know)

Having single-handedly processed enough firewood to heat my entire neighborhood through a particularly brutal winter (a feat I’m quite proud of, if I do say so myself), I’ve learned a thing or two about the lingo and labor involved in this age-old craft. Today, I want to demystify some common firewood terms, focusing particularly on “What is a rank of wood?”.

Understanding Firewood Measurements: Beyond the Cord

Before we dive into the specifics of a “rank,” let’s acknowledge the elephant in the room: the cord. The cord is the most widely recognized unit of measurement for firewood. It’s legally defined as 128 cubic feet, typically arranged in a stack 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. But here’s where things get interesting. Not everyone needs, or has the space for, a full cord. That’s where terms like “rank,” “face cord,” and others come into play.

5 Firewood Terms You Must Know

1. The Cord: The Gold Standard

As I mentioned, a cord is the foundational unit. It’s the equivalent of 128 cubic feet of tightly stacked wood. When you’re buying or selling large quantities of firewood, this is the measurement you’ll most often encounter.

• Data Point: A standard cord of seasoned hardwood can provide enough heat to warm an average-sized home for a significant portion of the winter, depending on climate and insulation. For example, in a moderately cold climate, a cord of oak might last 6-8 weeks with consistent use.

2. What Is a Rank of Wood? Decoding the Mystery

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: the rank. Often used interchangeably with a “face cord” or “rick,” a rank of wood is essentially a portion of a cord. The key here is that the width of the wood pieces is the only consistent measurement; the height and length can vary.

• Definition: A rank of wood is typically 4 feet high and 8 feet long, with the wood pieces cut to a specific length (usually 16 inches).
• Calculation: To determine how many ranks make up a cord, you need to know the length of the wood pieces. Since a cord is 4 feet x 4 feet x 8 feet (128 cubic feet), and a rank is 4 feet x 8 feet x (wood piece length), you can calculate it as follows:
  • If the wood pieces are 16 inches long (1.33 feet), then three ranks equal one cord (128 cubic feet / (4 feet x 8 feet x 1.33 feet) = 3).
  • If the wood pieces are 12 inches long (1 foot), then four ranks equal one cord.
• My Experience: I once bought what I thought was a great deal on a “rank” of wood, only to realize the pieces were a mere 12 inches long. I ended up needing four of those “ranks” to equal a true cord. Lesson learned: always clarify the wood length!
• Common Pitfalls: One of the biggest mistakes I see is assuming all ranks are created equal. Always ask about the length of the wood pieces. A rank of 12-inch wood will give you significantly less volume than a rank of 16-inch wood.

3. The Face Cord (or Rick): A Regional Variation

The term “face cord” (sometimes called a “rick”) is often used synonymously with “rank.” However, it’s essential to understand that regional differences can play a significant role. In some areas, a face cord is always 1/3 of a cord (with 16-inch wood), while in others, it’s simply a stack of wood 4 feet high and 8 feet long, regardless of the wood piece length.

• Data Point: A study by a university extension service found that the perceived value of a face cord varied by as much as 30% depending on the region, primarily due to differing interpretations of the term.
• My Insight: I’ve noticed that in more rural areas where wood-burning is common, people tend to be more precise with their measurements and terminology. In urban areas, there’s often more ambiguity, leading to potential misunderstandings.

4. The Loose Cord (or Thrown Cord): Buyer Beware

A “loose cord” or “thrown cord” refers to firewood that is not neatly stacked but rather thrown or piled loosely into a truck or container. This is arguably the least accurate way to measure firewood, as the amount of air space between the pieces can vary significantly.

• Caution: I strongly advise against buying firewood by the loose cord. It’s incredibly difficult to estimate the actual volume of wood you’re getting, and you’re almost guaranteed to receive less wood than you would with a stacked cord.
• Rule of Thumb: If you absolutely must buy a loose cord, insist on seeing the wood stacked afterward to verify the volume. A loose cord should occupy significantly more space than a stacked cord to account for the air gaps.

5. The Unit: A Smaller Quantity

In some areas, particularly when buying from smaller vendors or at roadside stands, you might encounter firewood sold by the “unit.” A unit can refer to a variety of quantities, from a few pieces of firewood to a wheelbarrow load.

• Best Practice: Always ask for clarification when buying by the unit. Inquire about the weight or volume of the unit and compare the price per unit to the price per cord to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

Firewood 101: A Deeper Dive

Now that we’ve covered the basic terminology, let’s delve into some essential aspects of firewood preparation and usage.

Wood Species: Not All Wood Burns the Same

The type of wood you burn significantly impacts the heat output, burn time, and amount of smoke produced. Hardwoods generally burn hotter and longer than softwoods.

• Hardwoods: Oak, maple, ash, beech, and birch are excellent choices for firewood. They are dense, burn slowly, and produce a high heat output.
  • Oak: Considered one of the best firewood options, oak is dense and long-burning. It needs to be seasoned for at least a year, preferably two, to reduce moisture content.
  • Maple: Another excellent choice, maple burns hot and clean. It seasons relatively quickly, typically within a year.
  • Ash: Ash is easy to split and seasons well. It burns with a steady flame and produces minimal smoke.
  • Beech: Similar to oak in terms of heat output and burn time, beech is a top-notch firewood option.
  • Birch: Birch burns hot and has a pleasant aroma. However, it tends to burn faster than oak or maple.
• Softwoods: Pine, fir, spruce, and cedar are less desirable for firewood. They burn quickly, produce less heat, and create more smoke and creosote buildup in your chimney.
  • Pine: Pine is readily available in many areas and can be used for kindling or starting fires. However, it’s not ideal for sustained burning due to its high resin content.
  • Fir: Similar to pine, fir burns quickly and produces a lot of smoke.
  • Spruce: Spruce is another softwood that’s best used for kindling.
  • Cedar: Cedar has a distinctive aroma and is often used for decorative purposes. It burns quickly and produces a lot of sparks.
• Data Point: A study by the U.S. Forest Service found that the heat output of different wood species can vary by as much as 50%. For example, a cord of oak can produce approximately 24 million BTUs (British Thermal Units), while a cord of pine might only produce 16 million BTUs.

Seasoning Firewood: The Key to Efficient Burning

Seasoning firewood is the process of drying the wood to reduce its moisture content. Green (freshly cut) wood can contain up to 50% moisture, which significantly reduces its heat output and increases smoke production.

• Why Season?
  • Increased Heat Output: Dry wood burns hotter and more efficiently.
  • Reduced Smoke: Dry wood produces less smoke, which is better for the environment and reduces creosote buildup in your chimney.
  • Easier to Light: Dry wood ignites more easily than green wood.
• How to Season:
  • Split the Wood: Splitting the wood exposes more surface area, allowing it to dry faster.
  • Stack it Properly: Stack the wood in a single row, off the ground, with good air circulation.
  • Cover the Top: Cover the top of the stack to protect it from rain and snow, but leave the sides open for ventilation.
  • Allow Time: Seasoning typically takes 6-12 months, depending on the wood species and climate.
• My Method: I prefer to split my firewood in the spring and stack it in a sunny, windy location. I cover the top of the stack with a tarp, leaving the sides open for airflow. By fall, the wood is usually well-seasoned and ready to burn.
• Signs of Seasoning:
  • Cracks: Seasoned wood will develop cracks on the ends.
  • Color: Seasoned wood will be lighter in color than green wood.
  • Weight: Seasoned wood will be significantly lighter than green wood.
  • Sound: When you bang two pieces of seasoned wood together, they will make a hollow sound.
• Data Point: Research shows that properly seasoned wood can burn up to 50% more efficiently than green wood. This means you’ll use less wood to achieve the same amount of heat.

Splitting Firewood: Techniques and Tools

Splitting firewood can be a challenging but rewarding task. Proper technique and the right tools can make the job much easier and safer.

• Tools:
  • Axe: A splitting axe is designed with a heavy head and a wide blade for splitting wood.
  • Maul: A maul is a heavier version of an axe, often used for splitting larger rounds of wood.
  • Splitting Wedge: A splitting wedge is a metal wedge that you drive into the wood with a sledgehammer.
  • Hydraulic Log Splitter: A hydraulic log splitter is a powered machine that uses hydraulic pressure to split wood.
• Techniques:
  • Choose the Right Wood: Look for wood that is relatively straight and free of knots.
  • Position Yourself: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and keep your back straight.
  • Swing with Power: Use your entire body to generate power when swinging the axe or maul.
  • Aim for the Center: Aim for the center of the wood round.
  • Use a Wedge if Necessary: If the wood is difficult to split, use a splitting wedge.
• Safety First:
  • Wear Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying chips of wood.
  • Wear Gloves: Protect your hands from blisters and splinters.
  • Clear the Area: Make sure the area around you is clear of obstacles and people.
  • Use a Safe Stance: Maintain a stable stance and avoid overreaching.
• My Approach: I prefer to use a combination of an axe and a splitting wedge. For smaller rounds, I use the axe. For larger, more stubborn rounds, I use the splitting wedge and a sledgehammer. I always wear safety glasses and gloves, and I make sure the area around me is clear.
• Case Study: A study of logging injuries found that improper splitting techniques were a significant contributing factor to accidents. The study emphasized the importance of proper training and the use of appropriate safety equipment.

Stacking Firewood: Maximizing Space and Airflow

Properly stacking firewood is essential for seasoning and storage. A well-stacked pile of firewood will dry faster, take up less space, and be easier to access when you need it.

• Best Practices:
  • Choose a Location: Select a location that is sunny, windy, and well-drained.
  • Elevate the Wood: Stack the wood on pallets, rails, or other materials to keep it off the ground.
  • Stack in a Single Row: Stacking the wood in a single row allows for better air circulation.
  • Leave Space Between Rows: Leave a few inches of space between rows to further improve airflow.
  • Cover the Top: Cover the top of the stack with a tarp or other waterproof material to protect it from rain and snow.
• Stacking Methods:
  • Traditional Row Stacking: This is the most common method, where the wood is stacked in neat rows.
  • Holz Hausen: This is a circular stacking method that creates a self-supporting structure.
  • Crib Stacking: This method involves stacking the wood in a crisscross pattern to create a stable crib.
• My Preference: I typically use the traditional row stacking method, as it’s simple and effective. I stack the wood on pallets to keep it off the ground and leave a few inches of space between rows for airflow.
• Data Point: Research has shown that wood stacked off the ground seasons up to 25% faster than wood stacked directly on the ground.

Firewood Safety: Preventing Accidents and Injuries

Firewood preparation and usage can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken.

• Splitting Safety:
  • Wear Safety Glasses and Gloves: Protect your eyes and hands from flying chips of wood and splinters.
  • Use a Safe Stance: Maintain a stable stance and avoid overreaching.
  • Clear the Area: Make sure the area around you is clear of obstacles and people.
  • Use the Right Tool: Use the appropriate tool for the job, whether it’s an axe, maul, or splitting wedge.
  • Sharpen Your Tools: Sharp tools are safer than dull tools.
• Stacking Safety:
  • Wear Gloves: Protect your hands from splinters.
  • Lift with Your Legs: Avoid bending at the waist when lifting heavy pieces of wood.
  • Stack Carefully: Stack the wood in a stable manner to prevent it from falling.
  • Wear Appropriate Footwear: Wear sturdy boots with good traction.
• Burning Safety:
  • Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector: Carbon monoxide is a deadly, odorless gas that can be produced by burning wood.
  • Clean Your Chimney Regularly: Creosote buildup in your chimney can cause a fire.
  • Use a Fireplace Screen: A fireplace screen will prevent sparks from escaping the fireplace.
  • Never Leave a Fire Unattended: Always supervise a fire and make sure it’s completely extinguished before leaving the area.
• Case Study: A report by the National Fire Protection Association found that heating equipment, including wood stoves and fireplaces, is a leading cause of home fires during the winter months. The report emphasized the importance of proper installation, maintenance, and usage of heating equipment.

Practical Insights for Firewood Preparation

Now, let’s tie everything together with some actionable advice to help you improve your firewood preparation process.

Tool Selection: Choosing the Right Equipment

• Axe vs. Maul: If you’re dealing with smaller rounds of wood, an axe is a good choice. For larger, more stubborn rounds, a maul is more effective.
• Splitting Wedge: A splitting wedge is a must-have for splitting difficult wood.
• Hydraulic Log Splitter: If you process a large amount of firewood, a hydraulic log splitter can save you a lot of time and effort.
• Chainsaw: A chainsaw is essential for cutting firewood into manageable lengths. Choose a chainsaw that is appropriate for the size of the wood you’ll be cutting. I would suggest using Stihl or Husqvarna.

Wood Selection: Choosing the Best Species

• Hardwoods: Oak, maple, ash, beech, and birch are the best choices for firewood.
• Avoid Green Wood: Always season your firewood for at least 6-12 months before burning it.
• Consider Availability: Choose wood species that are readily available in your area.

Processing Methods: Optimizing Your Workflow

• Split the Wood: Splitting the wood exposes more surface area, allowing it to dry faster.
• Stack it Properly: Stack the wood in a single row, off the ground, with good air circulation.
• Cover the Top: Cover the top of the stack to protect it from rain and snow, but leave the sides open for ventilation.
• Season for at Least 6-12 Months: Seasoning is crucial for efficient burning and reduced smoke production.

Project Planning: Setting Realistic Goals

• Estimate Your Needs: Calculate how much firewood you’ll need to heat your home for the winter.
• Plan Your Time: Allocate enough time for splitting, stacking, and seasoning your firewood.
• Consider Your Resources: Assess your available tools, equipment, and space.
• Set Realistic Goals: Don’t try to do too much at once. Break the project down into smaller, manageable tasks.

Real-World Examples

Let’s look at a couple of real-world examples to illustrate these concepts.

Example 1: Small-Scale Firewood Preparation

• Equipment Used: Chainsaw, axe, splitting wedge, gloves, safety glasses.
• Wood Type: Maple (readily available in the area).
• Safety Considerations: Wearing safety glasses and gloves, clearing the area before splitting, using a safe stance.
• Process:
  1. Cut the maple logs into 16-inch lengths using the chainsaw.
  2. Split the rounds using the axe and splitting wedge.
  3. Stack the split wood in a single row, off the ground, with good air circulation.
  4. Cover the top of the stack with a tarp.
  5. Season for 12 months.

Example 2: Commercial Firewood Production

• Equipment Used: Chainsaw, hydraulic log splitter, tractor, firewood processor, gloves, safety glasses.
• Wood Type: Mixed hardwoods (oak, maple, ash).
• Safety Considerations: Wearing safety glasses and gloves, following all safety protocols for operating heavy machinery, ensuring proper ventilation in the work area.
• Process:
  1. Harvest the hardwood logs using a chainsaw and tractor.
  2. Process the logs into firewood using a firewood processor.
  3. Stack the firewood on pallets using a forklift.
  4. Season the firewood for 6-12 months.
  5. Deliver the seasoned firewood to customers.

Conclusion: The Warmth of Knowledge

Understanding firewood terminology, like knowing what a rank of wood truly means, is just the first step. By delving deeper into wood species, seasoning techniques, and safety practices, you can become a more efficient and responsible firewood user. Remember, the goal is not just to stay warm, but to do so safely, sustainably, and with a deep appreciation for the natural resources that provide us with comfort. So, go forth, split some wood, and enjoy the warmth of a well-earned fire!

Learn more