DIY Cost Tools
Firewood Cord Calculator
Convert the dimensions of a neatly stacked firewood pile into cubic feet, full cords and 16-inch face-cord equivalents.
How to use this calculator
- Replace every example value with your own measurements, label values or planning assumptions.
- Keep each value in the unit printed beside its field.
- Select Calculate, then compare the result with the formula and limitations below.
Formula and method
Stacked cubic feet = length × height × split length in feet × number of stacks. Full cords = cubic feet ÷ 128. A 16-inch face-cord equivalent is compared with an 8 ft × 4 ft × 16 in stack.
Results are hidden whenever an input changes or validation fails, so an older answer cannot be mistaken for the current calculation.
Worked example
Stack length = 8 ft; Stack height = 4 ft; Average split length = 16 in; Number of equal stacks = 1 stacks. The calculator returns Stacked volume = 42.7 cu ft; Full cords = 0.333 cords; 16-inch face-cord equivalents = 1.
The worked example uses the same default values displayed in the calculator.
Limitations and safety
Frequently asked questions
What should I enter first?
Start with measurements or rates from the project, product label, service quote or equipment specification. Replace every example value before relying on the estimate.
Why can the real result differ?
A legal cord and sale terminology can vary by jurisdiction, and loosely thrown wood is not equivalent to tightly stacked wood. Confirm local definitions and measure after stacking.
Does the calculator round purchases up?
Only outputs labeled as whole packages, vents, heaters, pails or similar counts are rounded up. Keep extra precision for planning and follow supplier packaging.
Review notes and reference
Reviewed October 5, 2026. The formula was independently checked against the displayed default example, and the calculator was tested for valid defaults, empty input, invalid formats, range boundaries and recovery. Reference: NIST SI Units. Explanations and examples are original.