Ever wondered how much firewood you’re truly getting when you order by the cord, or what “face cord” even means? You’re not alone—understanding these terms can save you money, frustration, and ensure you get the right amount of wood for your winter needs.
Knowing the difference is crucial for budgeting, storage planning, and making sure you don’t run out of warmth mid-season. In this article, we’ll break down what a “cord” and “face cord” are, how to measure them, and share practical tips for buying firewood confidently.
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What is a Face Cord of Wood? A Complete Guide
When you’re on the hunt for firewood—whether it’s for heating, cooking, or enjoying a cozy night by the fireplace—understanding firewood measurements is crucial. You may have encountered terms like “face cord,” “full cord,” or “rick,” which can be confusing if you’re new to firewood buying. So, what exactly does “face cord” mean, and how does it fit into the world of wood measurements? Let’s break it down, answer your questions, and provide some practical tips for buying and handling firewood.
Understanding Firewood Measurements
The firewood world has its own language. The most common terms you’ll come across are:
- Full Cord (Standard Cord): The classic measurement, often just called a “cord.”
- Face Cord: A popular term, but its size can vary.
- Rick: A regional term that often means the same as a face cord.
Each of these measurements refers to how the firewood is stacked, not necessarily the exact amount of wood you’re getting.
1. What is a Cord of Wood?
A standard cord is the official measurement for firewood. It’s a neatly stacked pile of wood, where pieces are aligned parallel, with minimal gaps.
A Full Cord’s Standard Size:
- Width: 4 feet
- Height: 4 feet
- Length: 8 feet
Volume: 128 cubic feet (4′ x 4′ x 8′)
That’s a lot of wood—plenty to keep a home warm for quite some time.
2. What is a Face Cord of Wood?
A face cord is a section, or “face,” of a full cord. Think of it as one row of stacked wood, where the height and width match a full cord, but the depth (the length of each piece of wood) is shorter.
Typical Face Cord Dimensions:
- Width: 8 feet (matches full cord)
- Height: 4 feet (matches full cord)
- Depth (Log Length): Usually 16 inches (about 1/3 of a cord’s depth)
So, a face cord is 4 feet high, 8 feet wide, and approximately 16 inches deep.
Key point:
A face cord is about 1/3 of a full cord, but since the depth varies, so does the actual amount of wood. The term refers mainly to the “face” you see—just the front row.
3. Full Cord vs. Face Cord vs. Rick
Full Cord
– 4 ft x 4 ft x 8 ft (128 cubic feet)
– Contains three “face cords” if each piece is 16″ long
Face Cord
– 4 ft x 8 ft x (length varies, often 16″)
– Usually about 1/3 of a full cord if logs are 16″
Rick
– A regional synonym for face cord
– Always verify the specific dimensions with your supplier
Tip: Always ask for the actual measurements—especially the depth—when someone offers a face cord or rick.
Detailed Aspects of Face Cords
Let’s dig deeper into what you need to know when dealing with face cords.
A. How is a Face Cord Stacked?
- Neatly: Wood is stacked tightly, with minimal air gaps.
- Uniform Lengths: For a true face cord, each log is cut to the same length (commonly 16”, but sometimes 12” or 24”).
- Parallel Placement: Wood is stacked with pieces facing the same direction, creating a flat, “faced” surface.
B. Why Buy a Face Cord?
A face cord can be a practical option if:
- You have limited storage space
- You only need a moderate amount of wood
- You want to test a new supplier with a smaller purchase
It offers flexibility without the commitment (and upfront cost) of a full cord.
C. Challenges With Face Cords
- Varied Depths: The length of the logs (depth of the stack) isn’t standardized. Always confirm the length before buying!
- Comparisons: Don’t compare face cords to full cords without factoring in log length.
- Pricing Confusion: Some sellers may advertise a “face cord” but cut the length to only 12″, meaning you get less wood.
Buying a Face Cord: Practical Tips
Purchasing firewood isn’t as simple as just asking for a “cord.” Here’s how to get the best value and avoid common pitfalls.
1. Ask for Exact Measurements
Never assume a face cord means the same thing everywhere. Ask your supplier:
- How long are the logs?
- What are the exact dimensions of the stack?
2. Compare Prices by Volume
Since log length varies, compare prices based on cubic feet. Here’s how:
For a face cord:
– Height (usually 4 ft) x Width (usually 8 ft) x Depth (logger’s cut, e.g., 16″ or 1.33 ft)
– So a 4′ x 8′ x 16″ face cord = 42.67 cubic feet
Compare this to a full cord (128 cubic feet) to see what you’re actually paying per unit.
3. Stack Your Own for Best Value
Some sellers deliver firewood “loose” (just dumped), which takes up more space than a neatly stacked pile. If you stack it yourself:
- You’ll see exactly how much you have
- It’s easier to spot and remove poorly seasoned or oddly sized pieces
4. Look for Seasoned Wood
Dry, seasoned wood burns cleaner, hotter, and more efficiently. Ask:
- Has the wood been seasoned (dried) for at least 6-12 months?
- What species is it? Hardwoods like oak and maple burn longer than softwoods like pine.
5. Assess Quality Before Buying
Check for:
- Evenly cut lengths
- Minimal mold or insect damage
- Moisture content (ideally below 20%)
A moisture meter can be a worthwhile investment if you burn a lot of wood.
Shipping and Delivery Tips (Including Cost)
If you’re ordering firewood—especially in larger quantities—delivery and stacking fees can add up.
Factors Affecting Cost
- Log length (depth of face cord)
- Type of wood (hardwood vs. softwood)
- Seasoning (dry or green)
- Delivery distance
Cost-Saving Advice
- Pick up yourself: If possible, picking up your own wood eliminates delivery fees and lets you check the quality before loading.
- Ask about stacking: Many sellers offer stacking for a small fee—worth it if you want to save time and effort.
- Buy locally: Local suppliers may skip delivery fees or offer discounts for repeat business. Local hardwood is generally more efficient to burn in colder climates.
What to Ask Before Ordering:
- Is delivery included in the price?
- Will delivery be “dumped” or “stacked”?
- Is the load measured before or after stacking?
- Can you specify log length (if your stove or fireplace has requirements)?
Face Cord Benefits at a Glance
- Flexibility: Buy what you need for a season or try out a new supplier.
- Storage: Easier to fit in smaller sheds or wood racks.
- Budget-friendly: Lower upfront cost than a full cord.
- Transparency: If you request your logs to be exactly measured, you know what you’re getting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not confirming log length (depth) before buying.
- Assuming a “face cord” always means 1/3 of a full cord. (It only does if logs are exactly 16″ long.)
- Comparing prices between suppliers without checking actual measurements.
- Buying unseasoned or “wet” wood that produces more smoke and less heat.
- Overpaying for delivered wood that isn’t stacked or that includes unusable chunks.
Best Practices for Storing a Face Cord
- Stack wood off the ground (on pallets or a wood rack) to prevent moisture and rot.
- Keep the pile covered on top, but leave sides open for airflow.
- Store in a sunny, breezy location if possible.
- Rotate older wood to the front so you burn the driest first.
Proper storage ensures your firewood is dry, burns efficiently, and lasts all season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How big is a face cord of firewood?
A face cord is typically 4 feet high, 8 feet wide, and 16 inches deep (log length). This adds up to about 42.67 cubic feet, roughly one-third the volume of a full cord if the logs are 16 inches long. However, always confirm the exact log length with your supplier.
2. Does a face cord always have the same amount of wood?
No, the actual amount of wood in a face cord depends on the length of the logs. Shorter logs mean less wood. Always check both the height, width, and especially the depth (log length) before purchasing.
3. How much does a face cord of wood cost?
Prices vary depending on wood type, quality, region, and whether it’s seasoned. Face cords are generally one-third the price of a full cord. Additional costs may include delivery and stacking fees.
4. Is a “rick” the same as a face cord?
Often, yes. In many regions, a “rick” refers to the same measurement as a face cord: one stack that’s 4 feet high, 8 feet wide, and the chosen log length. Always clarify measurements with your supplier, as definitions can vary.
5. How should I store my face cord of wood?
Store your firewood off the ground, in a well-ventilated, sheltered area. Stack pieces neatly, cover only the top, and keep the pile exposed on the sides for air circulation. This ensures your wood stays dry and ready to burn.
Final Thoughts
A face cord is a convenient unit of firewood that gives you flexibility, especially if you have limited space or are just stocking up for a short season. Always remember: not all face cords are created equal. Clarify the measurements, examine the wood quality, and consider delivery and stacking costs to ensure you’re getting true value for your money.
With this knowledge, you can buy firewood like a pro—keeping your home warm, your fire burning brightly, and your budget in check. Happy burning!