Buying firewood can be confusing, especially with the various measurement units used. One common unit, often causing uncertainty, is the "half face cord." This guide will demystify what a half face cord of wood is, how it compares to other measurements, and what you need to know before purchasing.
What is a Half Face Cord of Wood?
A half face cord of wood is exactly what it sounds like: half of a face cord. A face cord is a stack of wood that's 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but the thickness of the pieces varies. This variability is precisely where the confusion often stems from. Because the wood pieces are not standardized in thickness, a face cord’s volume and therefore its energy content, can change dramatically. A half face cord, therefore, represents half the volume of a face cord, but again, the exact volume is dependent on the thickness of the individual pieces of wood.
How Much Wood is in a Half Face Cord?
The ambiguity around the thickness makes determining the precise volume of a half face cord difficult. It's not a standard cubic measurement like a cord (128 cubic feet). Instead, it's based on a superficial measurement of stacked wood. To get a clearer idea, imagine stacking your wood neatly. A half face cord would occupy roughly 16 cubic feet if the wood pieces were relatively consistently 16” long. The overall volume, however, can be substantially more or less depending on whether the pieces are thicker or thinner, affecting the total cubic feet in your half face cord.
How Does a Half Face Cord Compare to a Full Cord?
A full cord of wood measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, totaling 128 cubic feet. Therefore, a half face cord is significantly less than a full cord, generally representing a smaller order for smaller projects or supplemental heating needs.
How Many Pieces are in a Half Face Cord?
This is highly variable and impossible to determine without knowing the dimensions of the individual pieces of wood. The number of pieces will depend on the wood type, the size of the individual pieces, and how tightly they're stacked. A half face cord of smaller, thinner pieces will obviously contain more pieces than a half face cord containing large, thick pieces.
What Size of Project Does a Half Face Cord Suit?
A half face cord is usually suitable for supplemental heating in smaller spaces or for smaller projects like a bonfire or a small outdoor fire pit. It may not be sufficient for a primary heating source over an entire season for a larger home.
Is a Half Face Cord a Good Deal?
Whether a half face cord is a good deal depends on several factors, including the price per face cord (or cubic foot), the type of wood, and the quality of the wood. Compare prices from different suppliers and always clarify the measurement method before purchasing to avoid misunderstandings and overpaying.
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Buying a Half Face Cord?
Advantages:
- Cost-effective for smaller needs: Ideal for supplemental heating or smaller projects.
- Easier to handle and store: Less volume makes it easier to manage and store.
Disadvantages:
- Ambiguous measurement: The lack of a standard cubic measurement can lead to discrepancies and potentially overpaying.
- May not be sufficient for larger needs: Insufficent for primary heating in larger homes or longer heating seasons.
By understanding the nuances of a half face cord, you can make more informed decisions when purchasing firewood. Remember to always clarify the measurement method and compare prices from various suppliers to ensure you get the best value for your money.
