A cord of wood is a standardized unit of measure used to quantify firewood volume in stacked form. In the United States, one full cord is defined as a neatly stacked woodpile measuring 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, totaling 128 cubic feet. Other variations, such as the face cord or rick, only partially represent this volume. The cord of wood calculator is a digital tool that calculates the total volume of wood based on user-input dimensions, either in feet or meters, and helps convert between full cords and alternative measurements for practical firewood management.
Detailed Explanations of the Calculator's Working
The calculator accepts three primary inputs: length, width, and height of the stacked woodpile. It then divides the resulting volume by the standard cord size depending on the unit system selected. In US customary units, the volume is divided by 128 cubic feet. For metric input, the divisor is 3.6246 cubic meters, which is the equivalent volume of a standard cord. The face cord calculator further adjusts dimensions based on the average log length—commonly 16 inches. This tool is designed to quickly translate physical dimensions into cord units, providing clarity for purchases, storage logistics, and usage estimation.
Formula with Variables Description
Formula for Number of Cords (US Units):
Number of Cords = (Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Height (ft)) / 128 ft³
Formula for Number of Cords (SI Units):
Number of Cords = (Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m)) / 3.6246 m³
Formula for Face Cord (US Units):
Number of Face Cords = (Length (ft) × Height (ft) × (16 / 12) (ft)) / 42.67 ft³
Where:
- Length = Horizontal measurement of the stack
- Width = Depth of the stack
- Height = Vertical measurement of the stack
- 128 ft³ = Standard volume of 1 full cord
- 3.6246 m³ = Metric equivalent of 1 full cord
- 42.67 ft³ = Volume of 1 face cord based on 16-inch logs
Reference Table for Common Measurements
| Stack Dimensions (ft) | Total Volume (ft³) | Number of Full Cords | Number of Face Cords |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 × 4 × 8 | 128 | 1.00 | 3.00 |
| 4 × 8 × 8 | 256 | 2.00 | 6.00 |
| 2 × 4 × 8 | 64 | 0.50 | 1.50 |
| 4 × 4 × 6 | 96 | 0.75 | 2.25 |
| 3 × 3 × 8 | 72 | 0.56 | 1.69 |
Example
Suppose a homeowner has a firewood stack measuring 4 feet high, 8 feet long, and 2 feet deep. Using the formula:
Number of Cords = (4 × 8 × 2) / 128 = 64 / 128 = 0.5 cords
This stack represents half a full cord, which can be used to determine whether the delivered quantity matches the expected purchase.
Applications
Residential Firewood Estimation
Homeowners can use the calculator to verify delivery amounts, plan heating fuel needs for the season, and efficiently stack and store firewood. It ensures accurate budgeting and spatial organization for firewood sheds or garages.
Commercial Logging
Logging companies rely on cord calculations for consistent pricing, inventory tracking, and meeting customer demand. The tool ensures that commercial transactions are standardized and legally compliant.
Storage and Transportation
Transporters use the cord calculator to maximize vehicle load efficiency and avoid overloading. It also assists in containerizing and stacking wood in warehouses or delivery trucks accurately.
Most Common FAQs
A full cord measures 128 cubic feet (typically 4 ft high × 4 ft wide × 8 ft long), while a face cord consists of wood stacked 4 feet high and 8 feet long but with log lengths varying, typically 16 inches. One full cord equals about three face cords when 16-inch logs are used.
Yes. The calculator allows entry in meters and uses the conversion factor of 1 cord = 3.6246 cubic meters. This feature benefits international users and those more familiar with the metric system.
Using cords provides a standardized method to quantify and trade firewood. This avoids disputes between buyers and sellers, ensures fair pricing, and supports regional compliance with measurement standards.
The calculator assumes tightly stacked, uniform wood. If your stack is irregular or contains significant gaps, results may be overestimated. In such cases, adjust input values slightly to account for voids.
The number depends on home size, insulation quality, and local climate. A well-insulated house might need 2 to 4 full cords per season. Use the calculator to track current stock and project needs.