Wood has long been a fundamental part of human life—used for heating, cooking, and construction. For those who rely on wood-burning stoves or fireplaces, one term often stands out: the cord of wood. Yet, despite its common use, many people wonder exactly how big is a cord of wood, or how it compares to other measurements like a rick or a quart of wood.
In the UK and USA, where firewood remains an essential resource for homes and outdoor living, understanding firewood cord size and terminology is important for making informed purchases and ensuring fair trade. This article explores the history, meaning, and measurement of a cord of firewood, clarifying common misconceptions and explaining regional differences.
The Origin of the Term “Cord of Wood”
The term “cord” dates back to the 17th century, when wood sellers would tie firewood stacks together with a rope or “cord” to measure and secure them. Over time, this term evolved into a standardized unit of volume used for firewood measurement.
A cord of wood represents a specific volume of stacked logs—128 cubic feet—and serves as the official measurement in both the United States and parts of Canada. The UK, while using metric units more commonly, still recognizes the cord in informal contexts, especially among firewood suppliers catering to traditional wood-burning homes.
How Big Is a Cord of Wood?
So, exactly how big is a cord of wood? The answer lies in both volume and arrangement. A full cord of wood measures:
8 feet long × 4 feet high × 4 feet deep = 128 cubic feet (3.62 cubic meters).
This standardized volume accounts for the wood itself as well as the small gaps of air between logs. However, the actual amount of solid wood within a cord is typically less—around 85 to 90 cubic feet—because of these air spaces.
A full cord usually contains between 500 and 600 pieces of split firewood, depending on log diameter and cutting consistency. It’s important to note that a cord describes stacked wood, not loose or unorganized piles, which can vary significantly in actual volume.
The Different Types of Cords
The term “cord” often comes with modifiers that describe smaller or differently arranged quantities of firewood. Understanding these distinctions helps ensure buyers get what they pay for.
1. Full Cord
A full cord is the standard unit of measurement—128 cubic feet of stacked wood. This is the reference point for pricing and comparison across regions.
2. Face Cord (Rick)
A face cord, also known in some areas as a rick of wood, contains one row of firewood stacked 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but the depth varies depending on the length of each log.
If the firewood pieces are 16 inches long (a common stove length), a face cord equals one-third of a full cord. Thus, it measures approximately 42–43 cubic feet of wood. The term rick is more common in the USA, particularly in the Midwest and South.
3. Half Cord
As the name suggests, a half cord is half the size of a full cord—64 cubic feet. This is a common purchase for smaller households or occasional fireplace use.
4. Quarter Cord (Quart of Wood)
A quarter cord, sometimes informally called a quart of wood, measures 32 cubic feet. This quantity suits those who burn wood occasionally, such as for weekend fires or outdoor cooking.
The phrase quart of wood size is not officially recognized but is often used conversationally to refer to a smaller stack—roughly one-quarter of a cord.
Measuring a Cord of Firewood: Dimensions and Details
When discussing measurements of a cord of firewood, it’s essential to visualize how it’s stacked. Firewood pieces are generally cut into consistent lengths—commonly 16 inches for wood-burning stoves or fireplaces.
When stacked properly:
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Three rows of 16-inch logs make a full 4-foot depth.
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The stack should measure 8 feet long by 4 feet high by 4 feet deep to qualify as a full cord.
If logs are longer or shorter, the actual volume of usable firewood changes. Therefore, measurement accuracy depends on both stacking precision and log uniformity.
Firewood Cord Size and Regional Variations
While the cord is the legal standard in the United States and Canada, the UK typically sells firewood by volume in cubic meters or by weight. However, many UK firewood suppliers still reference cords when dealing with international customers or traditionalists familiar with American terms.
To compare:
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1 cord (128 cubic feet) ≈ 3.62 cubic meters.
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1 cubic meter ≈ 0.275 cords.
In both countries, actual usable firewood volume may vary due to wood type, moisture content, and cutting consistency. Hardwood species such as oak, ash, and hickory produce denser cords compared to softwoods like pine or spruce, which have more air space between logs.
Why the Cord Measurement Matters
Understanding what the size of a cord of wood truly means ensures fair trade and efficient planning for heating needs. Many consumers buy firewood by truckload or vague terms like “pile” or “stack,” which can lead to confusion or misrepresentation.
Knowing that a cord of firewood equals 128 cubic feet provides a universal reference point for comparing prices and quantities. It also helps calculate how much storage space is needed. For example, a standard garage bay or shed can typically accommodate about one cord if properly stacked.
How Much Is a Cord of Wood Worth?
Prices for a cord of wood vary based on several factors:
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Wood type (hardwood vs. softwood)
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Region and availability
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Season and demand
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Delivery and splitting services
In the USA, a full cord of seasoned hardwood generally costs between $200 and $450, depending on region. In colder northern states, prices can rise to $500 or more during peak winter months.
In the UK, firewood is often sold in cubic meters, but the equivalent cost of a cord ranges from £250 to £400 depending on wood quality and delivery fees. Seasoned or kiln-dried hardwood commands higher prices because it burns more efficiently and produces less smoke.
Stacking and Storing Firewood: Why Volume Matters
While this article avoids “how-to” instructions, understanding the relationship between firewood cord size and storage space is crucial. A full cord occupies a large area, and improper stacking can reduce airflow, leading to moisture buildup and poor combustion.
Firewood should always be stacked off the ground and in a well-ventilated area. Proper stacking maintains the cord’s dimensions and ensures accurate measurement when buying or selling wood. For households in the UK and USA, planning adequate storage before purchasing a full cord prevents logistical headaches later.
Moisture Content and Weight Differences
Not all cords of wood weigh the same. The moisture content of firewood dramatically affects both weight and heating value.
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Green wood (freshly cut) can contain up to 50% moisture, making it heavy and inefficient for burning.
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Seasoned wood, dried for 6–12 months, usually contains around 20% moisture and burns cleaner.
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Kiln-dried wood has even lower moisture levels (10–15%), offering the best energy efficiency.
A cord of green oak may weigh over 5,000 pounds (2,270 kg), while a cord of seasoned oak might weigh closer to 3,500 pounds (1,590 kg). Softwoods like pine or spruce are lighter, with seasoned cords weighing around 2,500 pounds (1,130 kg).
Common Misunderstandings About Cords and Ricks
Because terms like rick, face cord, and quart of wood size are often used loosely, confusion is common. The key difference lies in depth—the one dimension that varies most.
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A rick or face cord is only as deep as the logs themselves, meaning its total volume depends on log length.
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A full cord has a defined depth of 4 feet, making it the only standardized measure for trade.
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A truckload of wood is not a unit of measurement—it can contain anywhere from a quarter to a full cord depending on how it’s stacked.
Understanding these distinctions helps avoid misunderstandings when ordering firewood from suppliers, particularly in rural or regional markets where informal terms are common.
The Role of Wood Type in Cord Volume and Heat Output
Not all wood provides equal value per cord. Dense hardwoods yield more heat energy, while softwoods burn faster but ignite easily. Here’s a comparison based on species:
| Wood Type | Classification | Approx. BTUs per Cord | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oak | Hardwood | 24–26 million | Long, steady heat for stoves and fireplaces |
| Ash | Hardwood | 23 million | Burns evenly, minimal smoke |
| Hickory | Hardwood | 28 million | Excellent heat output |
| Pine | Softwood | 15 million | Quick ignition, ideal for kindling |
| Birch | Hardwood | 20 million | Bright flame, moderate heat |
| Spruce | Softwood | 16 million | Fast burning, less dense |
Choosing the right wood type ensures efficient heating and determines how long a cord of firewood will last through the season.
Legal Standards and Regulations
In the United States, the sale of firewood is regulated by weights and measures agencies in each state. Sellers are required to provide clear documentation showing whether wood is sold by the cord, fraction of a cord, or cubic foot. Misrepresenting volume can result in fines.
In the UK, firewood sales follow similar consumer protection standards. Sellers must disclose whether the product is measured in cubic meters, bulk bags, or loose volume equivalents. Understanding the cord as a comparative measure helps UK buyers evaluate imported or American-labeled firewood quantities.
Converting Cords into Other Units
For practical use, it’s often necessary to convert a cord of firewood into alternative measurements.
| Unit | Equivalent in Cubic Feet | Equivalent in Cubic Meters |
|---|---|---|
| Full Cord | 128 | 3.62 |
| Half Cord | 64 | 1.81 |
| Face Cord (Rick) | ~43 | 1.22 |
| Quarter Cord | 32 | 0.91 |
| Stere (metric measure used in Europe) | 35.3 | 1 |
These conversions make it easier to communicate between metric and imperial systems, particularly for suppliers operating in both the UK and USA.
The Practical Importance of Knowing Cord Size
Whether for heating a cabin in Maine or a countryside home in Yorkshire, understanding how big a cord of wood really is helps households plan ahead. A typical household burning wood as a primary heat source might use 3 to 6 cords per winter. Those using wood for ambiance or supplemental heat may need just one or two cords.
Knowing the firewood cord size also aids in comparing storage needs, calculating delivery costs, and evaluating long-term sustainability. Purchasing accurately measured firewood ensures efficiency, fairness, and better environmental stewardship.
Environmental Considerations and Sustainable Firewood Use
Modern awareness of sustainability has changed how firewood is sourced and sold. Responsible suppliers now emphasize sustainably managed forests, ensuring that wood harvesting does not deplete natural ecosystems.
In both the UK and USA, certified suppliers often follow guidelines from organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which verifies environmentally friendly practices. Choosing locally sourced firewood reduces carbon emissions associated with transport and supports regional economies.
Sustainable harvesting also involves cutting only mature trees and allowing forests to regenerate naturally. For consumers, understanding cord measurements ensures they purchase only what they need, minimizing waste.
Storing and Seasoning Wood for Optimal Performance
The measurements of a cord of firewood are only meaningful if the wood is properly seasoned and stored. Air circulation, elevation from the ground, and exposure to sunlight all affect drying efficiency. A well-seasoned cord provides consistent, smokeless heat and reduces creosote buildup in chimneys.
Although this article doesn’t focus on “how-to” methods, recognizing that stacking practices affect usable volume helps explain why cords remain the gold standard for measurement. Properly stacked wood maintains its 4×4×8 dimensions and prevents volume distortion.
Summary: What Is the Size of a Cord of Wood?
To summarize:
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A cord of wood measures 8 feet long × 4 feet high × 4 feet deep (128 cubic feet).
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A face cord or rick is one-third of that size if logs are 16 inches long.
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A quarter cord (or quart of wood) equals 32 cubic feet.
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How much is a cord of wood? Prices range from $200–$450 in the USA and £250–£400 in the UK, depending on wood type and quality.
Understanding these standards protects consumers, ensures fair trade, and promotes sustainable use of natural resources. Whether measured in cords, ricks, or cubic meters, the goal remains the same—to appreciate the value, science, and tradition behind one of humanity’s oldest sources of warmth and comfort.
