Cord of Wood Calculator
Measure firewood stacks, convert to cord equivalents, and estimate heating output for hardwood or softwood loads.
Total volume
256.0 cubic ft
Full cords 2.00
Cord equivalents
Face cords 3.00
Loose cords 1.42
Heat output
BTU per cord ~25.0M
Total ~50.0M BTU
Let firewood season for at least six months for best combustion.
How to Use This Calculator
Measure each stack
Measure length, width, and height for a typical stack. Enter the number of stacks to cover the entire woodpile.
Specify wood species and log length
Choose hardwood or softwood to estimate BTU output and provide log length to convert to face cords.
Review cord equivalents
Compare full cords, face cords, and loose thrown cords to evaluate supply and pricing.
Formula
Volume (cubic ft) = Length x Width x Height x Stack count
Full cords = Volume / 128
Face cords = Volume / (Height x Length x Log depth)
Example: One stack 16 ft long x 4 ft wide x 4 ft high equals 256 cubic feet. That is 2 full cords, about 4 face cords with 16 inch logs, and roughly 1.4 loose cords.
Full Description
Firewood is often delivered in irregular piles. This calculator converts real-world stacks into standard cord measurements so you can verify deliveries, plan heating seasons, and compare prices fairly.
Switch between metric and imperial units depending on how you measured the stack. The tool also estimates BTU output based on whether you burn hardwood, softwood, or a mixed load.
Use the results to budget wood usage across winter, track woodpile shrinkage, or communicate volume clearly when buying or selling firewood.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a full cord?
A full cord is a tightly stacked pile measuring 4 ft high x 4 ft deep x 8 ft long (128 cubic feet).
How does a face cord compare?
A face cord, or rick, is one log deep. With 16 inch logs it is about one-third of a full cord.
Why is loose thrown volume larger?
Unstacked logs trap more air. A loose cord can measure 150 to 200 cubic feet but compacts when stacked neatly.
How many cords do most homes burn?
Average households with wood stoves use 2 to 4 cords of seasoned hardwood per heating season.