How Much Wood Do You Actually Get in a Half Cord? We Break Down the Math
When it comes to buying firewood, the half cord is a convenient option for many homeowners. But controversy abounds over just how much usable wood you actually get with a half cord purchase. Is it really half the amount of a full cord? Does the wood supplier short the stack? We clear up the confusion in this detailed guide.
Understanding exactly what a half cord delivers enables you to compare prices accurately and get the best deal from your firewood supplier.
What is a Cord and Half Cord of Firewood?
First, let's define the official firewood measurements:
- A standard full cord measures 4 feet x 4 feet x 8 feet, totaling 128 cubic feet of tightly stacked wood.
- A half cord is simply half the volume - 4 feet x 4 feet x 4 feet or 64 cubic feet.
The number of logs contained in a cord or half cord can vary significantly depending on the length and diameter of the logs, as well as how the logs are cut and split.
Typical Log Amounts
For reference, here are typical log counts you might find:
| Cord | 160-220 logs |
| Half cord | 80-110 logs |
Half Cord Dimensions and Quantities
As a half unit of measurement, you might logically expect a half cord to contain about half as much physical wood as a full cord. But several factors impact the actual amount delivered...
The Stacks Don't Lie
The first thing to check are the stack dimensions. A properly measured half cord should be 4ft high x 4ft deep x 4ft wide. If your wood delivery stacks up differently, you may not be getting the expected 64 cubic feet.
Log Length Matters
Another factor is log length, which can vary widely:
| 16 inch logs | ~100 logs |
| 18 inch logs | ~85 logs |
| 24 inch logs | ~65 logs |
As you can see, longer logs mean greater gaps and less actual wood volume packed into the half cord.
Cutting and Splitting Impacts Quantity
How the logs are processed also changes the wood count you get. Irregular, curved, and rough-cut logs leave empty spaces when stacked. And smaller split pieces pack tighter, reducing air gaps. So a smoothly cut and precisely split half cord contains more usable wood pound for pound.
Weight and Density of a Half Cord
The weight of a half cord varies by wood type. Softwoods like pine weigh less than dense hardwoods like oak or hickory. For reference:
- Softwoods: 1,200 - 1,800 lbs per half cord
- Hardwoods: 1,800 - 2,400 lbs per half cord
Moisture also impacts weight, with seasoned wood being lighter than fresh cut green wood. Properly seasoned wood weighs about 2,000 to 2,500 lbs per cord, while green wood is 3,000 to 4,000 lbs.
Cost and Pricing Considerations
When buying firewood, savvy consumers compare cost per unit volume, as full cords deliver greater value:
| Cord | $180 ($1.40/cu ft) |
| Half Cord | $130 ($2.03/cu ft) |
But half cords allow smaller deliveries for limited storage space. And it lets you trial a new wood type or supplier before committing to higher volumes.
Steps to Verify Half Cord Measurements
To ensure you're getting the advertised 64 cubic feet of wood:
- Ask for load photos before delivery
- Stack rows precisely, interlacing as you build height
- Note truck bed empty spots before unloading
- Measure final stack dimensions
Reputable dealers guarantee half cord volumes. If you think the stack looks small, request a redelivery or partial refund as needed.
Stacking and Storing Half Cord Deliveries
Properly stacking freshly cut wood lets moisture evaporate so it burns better:
- Stack in open-air single rows, crisscross pieces
- Keep min 12 inches ground clearance
- Allow spacing for airflow between rows
Then cover the top with waterproof material. Your wood will be optimally dried within 9-12 months.
Burn Time and Consumption from Half Cord
Finally, how long does a half cord of wood last? You can expect:
- 24-30 hours of burn time in average efficiency wood stoves
- Up to 36 hours in high-efficiency fireplaces
Variables like wood density, moisture level, and stove design impact burn rates. So your mileage may vary. Supplement with additional purchased wood as needed.
A half cord of wood always measures a 4x4x4 foot stack in theory. But the actual amount of wood you get can fluctuate based on factors like log size, wood type, and processing methods. Following our tips will help ensure you get the expected quantity. And understanding key weights and measurements allows comparing prices across dealers to find the best half cord value.