Buying firewood can be tricky, especially when you're faced with terms like "full cord," "face cord," and even "rick." Understanding the differences between these measurements is crucial to avoid overpaying or ending up with less wood than you need. This guide will clarify the distinctions between full cords and face cords, helping you make informed decisions when purchasing your next winter's supply.
What is a Full Cord of Wood?
A full cord of firewood is a standard unit of measurement, representing a stack of wood 4 feet wide, 4 feet high, and 8 feet long. This amounts to 128 cubic feet of wood. It's the most common and generally accepted measurement for firewood, providing a consistent benchmark for buyers and sellers. Think of it as a neatly stacked, rectangular prism. The wood within a full cord should be tightly stacked to minimize air gaps, and pieces should be relatively uniform in size for accurate measurement.
What is a Face Cord of Wood?
A face cord is a less standardized measurement, often causing confusion. It's a stack of wood that is 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but the depth (the measurement running into the pile) is variable. This depth can range significantly, from a few inches to a full foot or more. Because the depth isn't standardized, a face cord can contain anywhere from 1/3 to a full cord's worth of wood. This ambiguity makes face cords inherently problematic when comparing prices or determining actual wood volume.
How Many Face Cords are in a Full Cord?
The number of face cords in a full cord depends entirely on the depth of the face cord. If a face cord is only one foot deep, then there would be four face cords in a full cord. However, if the depth is shallower, you'll need more face cords to equal a full cord. The lack of standardization makes calculating this conversion unreliable.
What are the common types of firewood measurements?
Beyond full cords and face cords, other measurement methods exist, adding to the confusion. Some sellers might use terms like:
- Rick: Similar to a face cord, but often even less defined.
- Cubic Foot: A direct measurement of volume, offering more precision than cords or face cords. But it requires more meticulous measurement.
- Truckload: This completely depends on the size of the truck. It’s generally a very unreliable measurement.
This variety of terminology often leads to misunderstandings and disputes between buyers and sellers.
Why is the difference between a full cord and a face cord so important?
The crucial difference lies in the potential for price discrepancies. A seller might offer a face cord at a seemingly low price, but if the depth is significantly less than a foot, you're effectively paying a much higher price per cubic foot than you would for a full cord. Always clarify the depth of a face cord before purchasing to avoid disappointment. If you are unsure, ask for the measurement in cubic feet for greater transparency.
How to avoid being misled when buying firewood?
- Clarify the measurement: Ask specific questions about the measurement type—full cord, face cord, and specify the depth if it's a face cord.
- Inspect the wood stack: Before buying, visually inspect the stack to ensure it meets the claimed measurements and that it's not filled with small pieces or large air gaps.
- Get it in writing: Have the quantity and measurement type clearly stated in any agreement or invoice.
- Consider cubic feet: Ask the seller for the cubic feet measurement as a more accurate way to compare prices and quantities.
By understanding the differences between full cords and face cords, and by taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure you're getting the amount of firewood you pay for and avoid potential misunderstandings. Choosing the right measurement and seller will lead to a cozy and warm winter, without the added stress of firewood miscalculations.
