Cord of Firewood Explained: Sizes, Prices, and Seasoning Tips
Key Takeaways
- A cord of firewood is a standardized measurement of stacked wood that equals 128 cubic feet, commonly used to compare firewood volumes.
- Premier Firewood Company offers convenient partial cord options: a 1/3 cord (Full Size) and a 1/6 cord (Half Size), perfect for different heating needs.
- Understanding firewood terminology like “face cord” vs. “full cord” helps ensure fair pricing.
- Kiln-dried wood is cleaner, drier, and ready to burn, while seasoned wood varies in quality and requires long drying periods.
- Proper firewood storage is crucial to maintaining burn efficiency, reducing smoke, and preventing pest infestations.
- Premier Firewood Company delivers high-quality, kiln-dried firewood and offers convenient accessories like stacking and racks for easy use.
Whether you are heating your home through the cold season or simply preparing for relaxing weekends around the fire pit, selecting the right amount and type of firewood is key. Unfortunately, the terminology used in firewood sales can be confusing, particularly when it comes to sizing and pricing. Understanding what a cord of firewood is, how much you are actually getting, and what type of firewood performs best can help you make an informed and efficient purchase.
What Is a Cord of Firewood?
A cord of firewood is a standardized unit used in the firewood industry to describe a volume of stacked wood. A full cord measures:
- Length: 8 feet
- Height: 4 feet
- Depth: 4 feet
This results in 128 cubic feet of tightly stacked firewood, not including excess air space. Because this amount is often too large for many households to store or burn within a reasonable timeframe, most consumers purchase smaller fractions of a cord.
Premier Firewood Company Cord Sizes and Prices
At Premier Firewood Company, customers can choose from practical and manageable cord sizes that meet common residential needs:
- Full Size (1/3 Cord): 8 feet × 4 feet × 16 inches deep
- Price: $390
- Half Size (1/6 Cord): 4 feet × 4 feet × 16 inches deep
- Price: $270
These quantities represent well-structured face cords that are easier to transport, store, and handle while still delivering high heat value.
Why Cord Size Matters
Firewood is often sold using inconsistent or misleading terms such as “truckload” or “stack.” These labels can vary significantly between vendors, making it difficult to determine true value. Using a standardized measure like the cord ensures accurate volume comparisons and fair pricing.
For example:
- A full cord measures 128 cubic feet (4 feet deep)
- A face cord or 1/3 cord has the same height and width (4 feet × 8 feet) but is only 16 inches deep
Premier Firewood Company’s full and half-size offerings use these standard depths and provide clear dimensions so customers know exactly what they are paying for.
Understanding Firewood Pricing
The cost of firewood varies depending on factors such as:
- Type of wood (hardwood vs. softwood)
- Drying method (air-dried vs. kiln-dried)
- Supply chain and delivery fees
- Geographic location and seasonal demand
Kiln-Dried vs. Seasoned Wood
While seasoned firewood is air-dried over many months, kiln-dried wood undergoes a faster, controlled drying process in a heated chamber. Though kiln-dried wood costs more, it offers major benefits:
- Ready to burn immediately
- Lower moisture content (under 20%)
- Cleaner and hotter burn
- Fewer pests or mold risks
Premier Firewood Company exclusively offers kiln-dried hardwood to guarantee reliability, performance, and safety.
What Is Seasoned Firewood?
Seasoned firewood refers to wood that has been allowed to dry naturally for 6 to 18 months. This drying process reduces internal moisture, making the logs more combustible.
Signs of Properly Seasoned Wood:
- Grayed or weathered exterior
- Cracks along the grain or ends
- Noticeably lighter weight
- Produces a sharp, hollow sound when knocked together
Burning wood with high moisture content can result in inefficient heating, more smoke, and dangerous creosote buildup in your chimney.
Benefits of Kiln-Dried Firewood
Choosing kiln-dried firewood eliminates the guesswork. It ensures:
- Uniform dryness
- Easy ignition
- Long, steady burn times
- Cleaner indoor air quality
- Minimal ash production
Kiln-dried wood is especially useful for indoor fireplaces, wood stoves, and cooking applications because of its reliability and consistent performance.
How Much Firewood Do You Need?
The volume of firewood required depends on several key factors:
- How often you plan to burn fires (daily, weekly, seasonally)
- Whether you are using firewood for ambiance or primary heating
- The efficiency and size of your fireplace or stove
General Recommendations:
- Occasional burning: 1/6 cord (half size) is usually sufficient
- Moderate home heating: 1/3 cord (full size) may be necessary
- Heavy daily use: 1 to 2 full cords per season may be required
Premier Firewood Company makes it simple to choose the right amount, and their delivery services ensure it arrives stacked and ready.
Proper Firewood Storage
Regardless of how well your firewood is seasoned or kiln-dried, storage plays a major role in maintaining its quality. Follow these best practices:
- Stack wood off the ground using pallets or racks
- Cover the top with a tarp or specialized firewood cover
- Leave the sides open for air circulation
- Store in a dry, shaded area with good airflow
Premier Firewood Company offers storage racks and covers as optional add-ons to keep your firewood in peak condition.
Using Firewood Safely and Efficiently
To get the most out of your firewood, keep these tips in mind:
- Always use dry, properly sized logs
- Start fires with kindling or fatwood fire starters
- Avoid burning softwoods or green wood
- Keep your chimney clean to prevent creosote buildup
The team at Premier Firewood Company can also guide you in selecting fire starters and kindling for an easier ignition process.
Why Buy from Premier Firewood Company?
Premier Firewood Company provides:
- Clearly defined firewood volumes and dimensions
- Premium kiln-dried hardwood
- Transparent pricing with no hidden charges
- Local delivery and stacking services
- Add-on options for storage solutions
Their commitment to quality and customer service makes them a reliable source for homeowners, restaurants, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Understanding the definition and value of a cord of firewood helps you make smarter purchasing decisions. Whether you need a modest amount for weekend fires or a larger load to heat your home throughout winter, Premier Firewood Company offers the perfect size and quality.
With options like 1/3 and 1/6 cords, kiln-dried hardwood, and reliable delivery, you can trust Premier Firewood Company to deliver warmth, efficiency, and peace of mind.
To explore current prices and schedule your firewood delivery, visit our website today.
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between a cord and a face cord?
A face cord has the same height and width as a full cord but only one-third the depth, totaling approximately 42.6 cubic feet.
Q: How long does firewood need to be seasoned?
Air-seasoned wood typically requires 6 to 18 months, depending on wood type and drying conditions.
Q: Why is kiln-dried wood better than seasoned wood?
Kiln-dried wood has more consistent moisture content, is pest-free, and ready to burn immediately.
Q: Can I store firewood inside my home?
It is best to store the bulk of your firewood outside in a well-ventilated space and only bring in small amounts for immediate use.
Q: Does Premier Firewood Company offer stacking and storage solutions?
Yes. Racks, covers, and stacking services are available as convenient add-ons