Full Cord vs. Face Cord

A full cord is the standard, official measurement for firewood that provides a clear and consistent volume of wood. This measurement represents a precisely stacked pile of wood that is:

• 4 feet high

• 4 feet wide

• 8 feet long

• Totaling 128 cubic feet of space

• Typically containing around 85 cubic feet of actual wood

The full cord is the most standardized and legally recognized measurement in the firewood industry. When you purchase a full cord, you can be confident about the exact amount of wood you're receiving. This precision is particularly important for those who rely on wood as a primary heating source or who need consistent wood supply for outdoor activities.

In contrast, a face cord (sometimes called a rick or short cord) is a less precise measurement that can vary depending on the seller. Typically, a face cord:

• Is 4 feet high

• Maintains the standard 8-foot length

• Has a variable width, often around 16-18 inches deep

• Contains significantly less wood than a full cord

• Usually represents about one-third of a full cord's volume

The variability in face cord measurements makes it a potentially tricky purchase. Homeowners and wood buyers must be especially careful and ask specific questions about the dimensions when purchasing a face cord of firewood.