Firewood Terminology & Sizes: What You Need to Know Before You Buy
If you’re new to buying firewood, you might come across terms like rick, cord, face cord, and seasoned wood—and it can be a little confusing. Whether you're stocking up for winter or buying a few loads for your backyard firepit, understanding firewood terminology will help you get the right amount of wood at the best value.
At TN Timber Firewood, we sell by the rick, but we're here to break down all the common firewood terms and sizes so you know exactly what you’re getting.
🔥 Common Firewood Terms Explained
1. Cord
A cord is the official unit of measurement for firewood in many states. It’s a large stack that measures:
4 feet high × 4 feet deep × 8 feet long
That equals 128 cubic feet of tightly stacked wood.
A full cord is a lot of firewood—ideal for people who use wood as a primary heat source.
2. Rick
A rick is a more informal term and often refers to a face cord (more on that next). A rick usually means:
A stack 4 feet high × 8 feet long, but only one log deep
The depth depends on the length of the firewood—commonly 16", 18", or 24".
So:16" logs = about 1/3 of a cord
24" logs = about 1/2 of a cord
At TN Timber Firewood, our ricks are made of 16" logs, which means one rick = about 1/3 of a cord.
3. Face Cord
A face cord is essentially the same as a rick:
4 feet high × 8 feet long × one log deep
Again, how much actual wood you get depends on the length of each log. The term “face cord” is often used interchangeably with “rick,” though it’s a little more technical.
4. Seasoned vs. Green Wood
Seasoned firewood has been dried (usually 6–12 months) to reduce moisture, making it easier to light and cleaner to burn.
Green wood is freshly cut, high in moisture, and harder to burn. It often produces more smoke and creosote.
Always choose seasoned firewood for better performance and safety.
5. Split vs. Round Logs
Split firewood has been cut and split for easier stacking and faster drying.
Round logs are whole, unsplit pieces. They burn slower but can be harder to ignite.
6. Hardwood vs. Softwood
Hardwood (oak, hickory, maple) burns hotter and longer—ideal for home heating.
Softwood (pine, fir) lights quickly but burns faster—better for kindling or campfires.
At TN Timber Firewood, we offer seasoned hardwood ricks perfect for heating your home or enjoying a clean-burning fire outdoors.
📏 Firewood Size Cheat Sheet
TermDimensions (H × D × L)Approx. VolumeCommon UseFull Cord4' × 4' × 8'128 cu. ftPrimary heat sourceRick (16")4' × 16" × 8'~42 cu. ftWeekend fires, campingFace Cord4' × log length × 8'VariesGeneral household use
🪵 Get the Right Firewood for Your Needs
Still not sure how much firewood you need? Here’s a quick guide:
Occasional fires or camping: 1 rick may last weeks or months
Supplemental heating in winter: 2–3 ricks per month
Primary wood heat source: 5–6 cords for the season
🌲 Order Firewood from TN Timber Firewood
We deliver seasoned hardwood ricks across Middle and East Tennessee, including:
Sparta, Cookeville, Knoxville, Crossville, Clarkrange, and more.
Not sure how much to order? Just give us a call or message us, and we’ll help you figure out exactly what you need.
Ready to order?
📞 Call now or book online at tntimberfirewood.com
