How to use this calculator
Measure your firewood stack in feet: length (how long the row is), height (how tall the stack is), and depth (the length of the individual logs from front to back). Enter these three dimensions and the calculator converts the total volume into full cords, face cords, and cubic feet.
You can also work in reverse. If you know how many cords you need, enter that amount and the calculator will show you the stack dimensions required. This is helpful when planning storage space or estimating how much to order for the heating season.
Understanding firewood measurements
A full cord is the only legally standardized firewood measurement in the United States. It equals 128 cubic feet of stacked wood, including the air space between logs. The traditional stack is 4 feet deep, 4 feet high, and 8 feet long, but any combination that totals 128 cubic feet qualifies.
A face cord, rick, or stove cord is a stack that is 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but only one log length deep. Because log length varies (commonly 12, 16, or 24 inches), a face cord is not a fixed volume. When buying by the face cord, always confirm the log length so you can calculate the actual volume you are receiving.
About 70 to 80 percent of a stacked cord is solid wood, with the remainder being air space between logs. Loosely thrown (not stacked) wood takes up roughly 40 percent more space, so a thrown cord is about 180 cubic feet.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a cord of firewood?
A full cord is 128 cubic feet of stacked wood. Prices range from $250 to $400 for seasoned hardwood in most of the United States, though premium species and remote delivery locations can cost more. Green (unseasoned) wood is usually 20 to 30 percent cheaper but requires months of drying before it burns well.
What is the difference between a cord and a face cord?
A full cord is 128 cubic feet. A face cord is 4 feet high by 8 feet long but only one log length deep, typically 16 to 18 inches. That makes a face cord roughly one third of a full cord. Since face cord is not a standardized unit, always ask the seller for the log length so you can calculate exactly how much wood you are getting.
How many cords do I need for winter?
If firewood is your primary heat source, plan on 3 to 5 cords for a full winter in cold climates. For supplemental heating with occasional fires, 1 to 2 cords is usually sufficient. Your actual usage depends on home size, insulation quality, stove efficiency, and wood species. Hardwoods produce more heat per cord than softwoods.
What is the best firewood to burn?
Dense hardwoods like oak, maple, hickory, and ash are the best choices for sustained heat. Oak is widely considered the top all around firewood because it burns hot and slow with minimal sparking. Softwoods like pine ignite quickly and work well as kindling, but burn fast and create more creosote. Always use seasoned wood with moisture below 20 percent.