Firewood Calculator - Free Online Calculator Tool

Quick Answer

A firewood calculator instantly estimates stacked wood volume in cords (128 cubic feet from a 4 ft x 4 ft x 8 ft stack) or face cords (about 1/3 cord with 220 split pieces), helping you verify deliveries, plan heating needs, and avoid overpaying[4][6][7]. Our free tool requires no sign-up—just input stack dimensions for precise cubic feet, cords, and cost estimates based on local prices[5][6]. Ideal for the 2.6 million U.S. households relying on firewood as primary heat[6].

Why You Need a Firewood Calculator

Firewood miscalculations lead to shortages, overpayments, or waste, especially with loose piles versus stacked cords, affecting buyers and sellers nationwide[3][4][8]. In cold regions, homes need 2-5 cords yearly—a 1,000 sq ft house requires about 2.61 cords of maple at 79% stove efficiency, delivering 8,600 BTU per pound of dry hardwood[1][2][6]. Rural homesteaders, off-grid users, and small forest owners in areas like Tennessee harvest from 1-3 acres for sustainable 2 cords annually, while woodsheds hold 5.56 cords (712.5 cubic feet) for typical 4-cord seasons[2][6]. Precise tools prevent disputes and match rising energy costs for 2% of U.S. homes[6].

How It Works

Enter stack dimensions (length, width, height in feet) for multiple piles—our calculator sums volumes, converts to cords (divide cubic feet by 128), face cords, or cubic meters, and factors in wood species BTUs[4][6][9]. Add local price per cord for instant value; it handles 16-inch pieces common in face cords (~220 splits)[4][7]. No spreadsheets needed—get results for truckloads, logs, or sheds in seconds[7][9].

Tips for Best Results

• Stack neatly first: Measure at least three times per dimension (e.g., average length x width x height) for accuracy—avoid loose dumps[4][5][8].
• Factor specs: Input wood type (e.g., 60% larch mix at 28.7 million BTUs/cord) and stove efficiency (79%) for heating estimates[1][2].
• Plan with buffers: Order 10-20% extra for moisture losses; sustainable harvest needs 0.5 acres per cord[2][5]. Verify shorts with weights/measures and store in 5+ cord sheds[3][8].

Sources

• hy-c.com
• thehomesteaderschronicle.com
• woodmanfirewood.com
• bostonfirewood.com
• shastacounty.gov