Understanding cord wood measurements can be tricky, especially when dealing with variations like face cords. This guide clarifies the difference between a full cord and a face cord, helping you accurately estimate your firewood needs.
A full cord of wood is a standard measurement representing a stack of wood 4 feet wide, 4 feet high, and 8 feet long. This results in a total volume of 128 cubic feet. It's crucial to note that this is a standard measurement; the actual volume can vary slightly depending on how tightly the wood is stacked and the size of the pieces.
A face cord (also known as a "short cord" or "stacking cord"), on the other hand, is a stack of wood that is 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but only 16 inches (1.33 feet) wide. This is considerably less wood than a full cord.
So, how many face cords are in a full cord?
Since a full cord is 4 feet wide, and a face cord is 1.33 feet wide, there are approximately 3 face cords in one full cord (4 feet / 1.33 feet ≈ 3).
However, it's important to keep in mind that this is an approximation. The exact number can vary slightly depending on how the wood is stacked and the size and shape of individual pieces of wood. Some stacks might be slightly less or slightly more than 16 inches wide, impacting the total number.
How to Measure a Face Cord:
To ensure you're accurately measuring a face cord, pay close attention to these factors:
- Height: The stack must be exactly 4 feet high.
- Length: The stack must be exactly 8 feet long.
- Width: The stack should be consistently 16 inches (1.33 feet) wide. Variations here will drastically change the volume.
- Tightness: The wood needs to be stacked reasonably tightly, similar to how a full cord would be stacked; loose stacking will create more air space and reduce the actual volume.
What is the difference between a full cord and a face cord?
This is a key question often asked when purchasing firewood. The major difference lies in the width. A full cord is significantly larger, containing almost three times the amount of wood as a face cord. Understanding this difference is essential to avoid overpaying for firewood.
How many cubic feet are in a face cord?
A face cord, measuring 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and 1.33 feet wide, contains approximately 42.67 cubic feet (4ft x 8ft x 1.33ft = 42.67 cubic feet). This is considerably less than the 128 cubic feet in a full cord.
Why is it important to know the difference?
Knowing the difference between face cords and full cords is crucial for:
- Accurate Budgeting: Face cords are significantly cheaper than full cords, but buying them without understanding the difference can lead to unexpected costs if you underestimate your heating needs.
- Avoiding Overspending: Make sure to clarify with the seller which measurement they are using to avoid being overcharged.
- Accurate Fuel Calculations: Knowing the precise volume allows for better planning and purchasing for the winter heating season.
By understanding the dimensions and implications of both face cords and full cords, you can confidently purchase the right amount of firewood to meet your needs. Always verify the measurements with the seller before purchasing to ensure you are getting the amount of wood you expect.
