Firewood Cord & Rick Calculator
Enter your wood pile dimensions to get the exact cord equivalent, face cord count, cubic metres, and BTU heat content. Annual heating estimate included. Nothing uploaded.
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Annual Heating Estimate
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Full cord = 4ft × 4ft × 8ft (128 cubic feet stacked). Face cord = one-third of a full cord (4ft × 8ft × 16in logs). Always buy by full cord equivalents, not by truck-load descriptions.
Learn more about firewood cords and heating
What is a full cord of firewood?
A full cord is a standardised measurement of stacked firewood equal to 4 feet high × 4 feet deep × 8 feet long = 128 cubic feet of stacked wood (including air gaps). The actual solid wood content is approximately 80 cubic feet. Many sellers use vague terms like 'truck load' or 'rick' that are not standardised - always ask for dimensions to verify cord equivalents.
What is the difference between a cord and a face cord?
A full cord is 4ft × 4ft × 8ft = 128 cubic feet. A face cord (or rick) is 4ft high × 8ft long × the log length (typically 16 inches = 1.33 ft). A face cord is therefore approximately one-third of a full cord. Many unscrupulous sellers describe a face cord as 'a cord' - always measure and convert to confirm what you're buying.
How many cords of wood do I need for winter?
A typical 1,000-1,500 sq ft home in a temperate climate (4,000 heating degree days) needs approximately 3-5 cords per season with a 65% efficient wood stove as the primary heat source. Colder climates and larger homes need more. The calculator estimates your annual need from area and climate zone.
FAQ
What is a full cord of firewood?
A full cord is a standardised measurement of stacked firewood equal to 4 feet high × 4 feet deep × 8 feet long = 128 cubic feet of stacked wood (including air gaps). The actual solid wood content is approximately 80 cubic feet. Many sellers use vague terms like 'truck load' or 'rick' that are not standardised - always ask for dimensions to verify cord equivalents.
What is the difference between a cord and a face cord?
A full cord is 4ft × 4ft × 8ft = 128 cubic feet. A face cord (or rick) is 4ft high × 8ft long × the log length (typically 16 inches = 1.33 ft). A face cord is therefore approximately one-third of a full cord. Many unscrupulous sellers describe a face cord as 'a cord' - always measure and convert to confirm what you're buying.
How many cords of wood do I need for winter?
A typical 1,000-1,500 sq ft home in a temperate climate (4,000 heating degree days) needs approximately 3-5 cords per season with a 65% efficient wood stove as the primary heat source. Colder climates and larger homes need more. The calculator estimates your annual need from area and climate zone.