The weight of a cord of firewood varies greatly depending on the type of wood (hardwood vs. softwood), its moisture content (green, seasoned, or kiln-dried), and how tightly it is stacked. On average, a cord of firewood weighs between 2,000 to 5,000 pounds (1 to 2.5 tons). Here’s a breakdown of the factors that affect the weight of a cord of firewood:
Understanding the Weight of a Cord of Firewood
What is a Cord of Firewood?
A cord is a standard measurement for firewood, defined as a neatly stacked pile that measures:
- 4 feet high x 4 feet wide x 8 feet long (4′ x 4′ x 8′)
- This equals 128 cubic feet of wood, including air gaps between the logs.
Factors Affecting the Weight of a Cord
Several factors influence how much a cord of firewood weighs:
- Type of Wood: Hardwoods (like oak, hickory, and maple) are denser and heavier than softwoods (like pine, spruce, and fir).
- Moisture Content:
- Green Wood: Freshly cut wood that still contains a lot of moisture. It is the heaviest because water is still trapped in the wood fibers.
- Seasoned Wood: Wood that has been air-dried for 6 months to 2 years, reducing its moisture content to around 20-30%.
- Kiln-Dried Wood: Wood dried in a kiln to a moisture content of 6-10%, making it the lightest.
- Stacking Method: How tightly the wood is stacked (with minimal air gaps) can slightly affect the overall weight.
Average Weights of a Cord of Firewood
Here is a breakdown of the approximate weights of different types of firewood in various moisture states:
| Wood Type | Green Weight (lbs) | Seasoned Weight (lbs) | Kiln-Dried Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
4,800 – 5,600 | 3,500 – 4,200 | 2,800 – 3,500 |
|
4,000 – 5,000 | 2,800 – 3,600 | 2,400 – 3,000 |
|
5,000 – 5,600 | 3,500 – 4,400 | 3,000 – 3,800 |
|
3,500 – 4,200 | 2,800 – 3,500 | 2,200 – 2,800 |
|
3,200 – 4,000 | 2,500 – 3,200 | 2,000 – 2,600 |
(Softwood) |
3,000 – 3,500 | 2,000 – 2,500 | 1,500 – 2,000 |
(Softwood) |
2,500 – 3,000 | 1,500 – 2,000 | 1,200 – 1,800 |
- Hardwoods (like Oak, Hickory, Maple, and Ash) are significantly heavier due to their density.
- Softwoods (like Pine and Spruce) are lighter and burn faster, making them less desirable for long-lasting fires.
Key Takeaways
- Green Wood is Heavier: Freshly cut wood retains moisture and can weigh up to 5,600 pounds per cord.
- Seasoned Wood is Moderate: Properly seasoned hardwood weighs around 2,800 to 4,200 pounds, while seasoned softwood is lighter.
- Kiln-Dried Wood is Lightest: With minimal moisture content, kiln-dried hardwood weighs between 2,200 and 3,800 pounds per cord.
Conclusion
The weight of a cord of firewood can range from 2,000 to 5,600 pounds, depending on the type of wood and its moisture content. For those who need firewood for heating, it’s crucial to consider these factors when purchasing, storing, or transporting firewood to ensure you get the right type and amount for your needs.