Buying firewood can be confusing, especially with the varying measurements used. Two common terms that often lead to misunderstandings are "face cord" and "full cord." This guide will clarify the differences, helping you avoid overpaying or receiving less wood than expected. Understanding these measurements is crucial for ensuring you get the right amount of firewood for your needs, whether you're warming your home all winter or just enjoying a cozy fire on chilly evenings.
What is a Face Cord of Wood?
A face cord of wood is a stack of firewood that's typically 4 feet high and 8 feet long. However, the crucial difference is that the depth (thickness) of the stack is not standardized. It can vary widely, ranging from 6 inches to 16 inches or even more, depending on the seller. This variability makes it the least precise measurement for firewood.
Because the depth is not fixed, a face cord can contain significantly different volumes of wood compared to another face cord. Always clarify the depth with the seller before purchasing a face cord to avoid discrepancies. You can calculate the volume of a face cord by multiplying length x height x depth. For example, an 8-foot long, 4-foot high, and 16-inch deep face cord is 4.27 cubic feet, while an 8-foot long, 4-foot high, and 6-inch deep face cord is only 1.6 cubic feet. This huge difference highlights the importance of knowing the depth.
What is a Full Cord of Wood?
A full cord of wood, often referred to as a "cord," is a standardized measurement that's much more reliable than a face cord. A full cord of wood is a stack that measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. This equates to 128 cubic feet of wood. This consistent size allows for accurate comparisons and pricing between sellers.
This standardized measurement makes it far easier to compare prices and ensures you receive the quantity of wood you paid for. It’s the most reliable unit for purchasing larger amounts of firewood, providing a clear understanding of the volume being purchased.
How Many Face Cords are in a Full Cord?
This is a frequently asked question, and the answer depends entirely on the depth of the face cord. Since a full cord is 128 cubic feet and a face cord’s volume varies with depth, there's no fixed conversion factor. To calculate how many face cords are approximately in a full cord, you would need to know the depth of the face cord being used for comparison. However, generally, three face cords of 16-inch depth would nearly equal a full cord.
What is a Rick of Wood?
Sometimes, you might encounter the term "rick" of wood. A rick is generally similar to a face cord. However, similar to a face cord, the depth isn't standardized and could vary in length and height as well. It’s a less precise and widely used term than a face cord. Always confirm the exact measurements of a rick with the seller to understand the volume of wood you're purchasing.
Which is Better: Face Cord or Full Cord?
For consistency and value, a full cord is always the better choice. Its standardized measurement eliminates ambiguity, allowing for fair comparisons and ensuring you get the quantity of wood you paid for. Face cords can be significantly cheaper, but this is often because they contain considerably less wood. The variability makes them a riskier purchase unless the depth is clearly specified and agreed upon.
How to Avoid Being Cheated When Buying Firewood?
- Always clarify the measurement: Before buying any firewood, confirm whether the seller is using a full cord, face cord, or another measurement like a rick. If it’s a face cord, make sure to ask about the depth.
- Check the stack: Ensure the wood is neatly stacked to accurately reflect the claimed volume. Loosely stacked wood can significantly reduce the actual amount of wood you receive.
- Measure the wood yourself: If possible, take your own measurements of the wood stack before agreeing to a purchase, especially for large orders.
- Get a written agreement: A written agreement outlining the quantity, type of wood, and measurement used protects both the buyer and seller.
By understanding the differences between a face cord and a full cord of wood, you can make informed decisions when purchasing firewood, ensuring you get the right amount for your needs at a fair price.
