If you’re purchasing firewood, it is essential that you understand its dimensions. A full cord measures four feet high by eight feet wide by four feet deep; any fraction thereof is known as a face or rick.
Wood sellers frequently use different terms to describe the amount of firewood sold; none of these have a legal definition.
Cost
Purchase of firewood in bulk may be less costly than purchasing individual pieces, although the total cost may still depend on its type and price. Hardwoods like oak and hickory tend to burn longer and hotter than softwoods but can be more costly; additionally, cutting lengths of suitable firewood may incur an additional charge and additional fees may be assessed if split and seasoned pieces are purchased.
In the United States, a cord of firewood typically comprises an eight-foot pile arranged four feet high by eight feet wide by four feet deep, though there can be much debate as to the number of logs comprising one cord due to their differing sizes. A full cord should contain approximately 128 cubic feet, though this could differ depending on its arrangement and inclusions such as larger pieces or pieces that require special handling.
Price fluctuations of cordwood vary significantly with the season; typically being cheaper in summer and spring when wood supplies are abundant and more costly during winter when demand for firewood peaks. Therefore, it is advisable to stock up early during the summer and fall seasons.
Another element that influences the price of firewood is quality of wood. Different species vary greatly in value; hardwoods like oak and maple tend to cost more than softwoods such as pine due to burning more quickly and efficiently.
Before making your purchase, it’s crucial to compare prices from various vendors before settling on one. One effective method for doing so is looking at each vendor’s full cord value – for instance, Bob may sell his firewood at $270 while Sam charges $360; using this data can help determine who provides the best value.
Availability
When looking for firewood, there are various sources available to you. From your local vendor and farm stands to online sellers – making sure your purchase comes from reputable sellers with well-stacked stacks will help ensure you’re receiving what is promised to you without getting taken advantage of!
When buying wood, always ask the seller how much he or she is selling per cord. Some vendors use terms such as face cord, rick cord and stove cord when describing their stacks – these descriptions may cause confusion among buyers. It is also essential to take into account both type and condition when purchasing your cord of wood; wet or dirty wood may cost more than dry and seasoned versions.
A cord of wood typically measures four feet high by eight feet long by four feet deep; this measurement is used to establish the price of firewood sold. However, it should be remembered that wood doesn’t fit neatly into any one volume – there may be air pockets between individual pieces of wood so one cord could actually contain less than 128 cubic feet.
If you own a truck with an expansive bed, picking up and stacking wood yourself could save money and effort. Otherwise, delivery and stacking services offer convenience at a higher cost; but do bear in mind they may take more time and may incur more fees – it might still be worthwhile considering.
Reputable wood sellers usually offer two separate prices: one for full cords of firewood and another for half or third cords, which may depend on its condition, cutting method, and where you live. You may find great deals by browsing Craigslist or searching local vendors in your area; just be sure to purchase from reputable sellers with good Better Business Bureau ratings when shopping through Craigslist!
Seasoning
The length of time needed for wood to season depends on its climate and weather. In general, however, it should be left outside during the summer to allow air circulation and dry out naturally. It should also be stored so as to be protected from rain while providing sufficient exposure to sunlight on all sides of its pile; metal or wooden log stores are an ideal place for this process – however an outdoor shed or backyard could work just as effectively.
There can be some uncertainty as to the size and contents of a cord of firewood due to various sellers using different measurements. Most agree that 128 cubic feet is considered one cord. There can also be debate on how the stack should be organized and which pieces count towards this total measurement; some vendors refer to one row of wood being one third of a full cord while other people refer to ricks which comprise around quarter of one cord.
Buy only seasoned wood to ensure optimal combustion results; unseasoned (green) wood may contain up to 50% moisture content and could pose problems when burning in a fireplace or wood stove, failing to light evenly or cause excess condensation and mildew in your home or garage.
When purchasing firewood, make sure to get a receipt from the seller as this will help establish that you received what was purchased. Also get their phone number so you can reach them with any inquiries or issues; additionally check that their delivery truck can safely transport cords of wood.
Before purchasing firewood from a lumber yard, it is wise to request a sample piece. This will give you an accurate idea of both its quality and quantity needed; most reputable dealers should offer these samples free or at a low cost as long as you inform them which kind you require.
Delivery
Attaining a full cord of firewood for your fireplace or wood stove may not be as straightforward as driving to the woods and collecting some. Loading and transporting this volume requires a large vehicle, time, and manpower – something which most individuals lack the equipment or truck for. If this is something you cannot manage on your own then professional delivery services may offer their services for around $25-75 per load plus travel fees of $2- $4 per mile; always do your research first and compare prices before hiring anyone to deliver this much needed firewood!
A cord of wood is a standard measurement used to quantify the volume of stacked wood totaling 128 cubic feet. All sellers of firewood should adhere to this measurement; however, not all vendors sell by this standard measure, so be aware when purchasing firewood from different vendors that there may be differences in measurements offered.
A full cord of wood costs can depend on a number of variables, including its type and location, season and market conditions. Hardwoods tend to be more costly than softwoods due to longer burn times and less ash production; additionally, prices fluctuate throughout the year with higher prices during periods with increased demand.
Another element that determines the cost of a cord of wood is whether or not it has been properly seasoned for use, as this makes for easier use and cleaner burning than unseasoned firewood. Furthermore, you should take into account your fireplace/wood stove size when determining how much firewood to purchase.
Start getting to know your vendors by visiting in person and asking questions about what types of wood they offer (i.e. oak vs hickory). Also find out the delivery and stacking fees – maybe ordering it online could save money?
