The price of a face cord of firewood varies significantly depending on several factors. Understanding these factors is crucial before you purchase, ensuring you get a fair price for your needs. This guide will break down the cost, influencing variables, and provide tips for making an informed decision.
What is a Face Cord of Wood?
Before diving into pricing, let's clarify what a face cord is. A face cord is a stack of firewood that is 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but the depth of the stack is variable and often the source of confusion. Unlike a full cord (which is 4ft x 4ft x 8ft), the depth of the wood pieces in a face cord is not standardized. This means you could receive a face cord with varying amounts of actual wood, impacting the overall value. This lack of standardization is a key reason why pricing varies so widely.
What Factors Influence the Price of a Face Cord of Wood?
Several factors significantly influence the cost of a face cord of firewood:
1. Type of Wood:
Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory burn longer and hotter than softwoods like pine or fir. Hardwoods generally command a higher price per face cord due to their superior heat output and longer burn time.
2. Seasoning:
Seasoned wood (dried for 6-12 months) burns cleaner, more efficiently, and produces less creosote. Seasoned wood is more expensive than green (freshly cut) wood because of the time and effort involved in proper drying. Green wood will often be cheaper but can be problematic in fireplaces and stoves.
3. Location:
Geographic location plays a crucial role. Areas with abundant timber resources will typically have lower prices than regions where wood is scarce. Transportation costs also factor into the final price, with longer distances increasing the cost.
4. Delivery:
Delivery charges can add significantly to the overall cost. If you need the wood delivered, inquire about delivery fees separately, as these can vary widely based on distance and quantity.
5. Supplier:
Different suppliers have different pricing structures. Some may offer discounts for bulk purchases, while others may have fixed pricing. Comparing prices from multiple suppliers is always advisable.
6. Species and Size of Wood:
The specific species and the size of the pieces will affect price. Larger pieces may cost more.
How Much Does a Face Cord of Wood Cost?
Unfortunately, there's no single answer to this question. Prices typically range from $100 to $300 or more, per face cord. This broad range highlights the importance of considering the factors discussed above. It's essential to shop around and compare prices from different suppliers in your area.
How to Get the Best Price on a Face Cord of Wood?
- Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple suppliers to compare prices and services.
- Negotiate: Don't be afraid to negotiate, especially if you're buying a large quantity.
- Consider the Season: Prices may be lower during the off-season (spring or summer).
- Buy in Bulk: Purchasing larger quantities often results in lower prices per face cord.
- Ask About Delivery Fees: Inquire about delivery costs upfront to avoid surprises.
What are the different types of cords?
There are several ways to measure firewood, leading to confusion. Understanding the difference between face cord, rack cord, and full cord is important to ensure you are getting what you paid for.
- Full Cord: A full cord measures 4ft x 4ft x 8ft. This is the standard measurement for a cord of wood.
- Rack Cord: Similar to a face cord, but the depth is consistent, making it a more precise measurement than a face cord. Often sold at a premium.
- Face Cord: As discussed, a face cord is 4ft high and 8ft long, but the depth varies. This is the least precise measurement and is therefore often the cheapest, although the total volume of wood can be considerably less than a full cord.
By understanding these different types of cords, you'll be able to better evaluate the value and cost of your firewood purchase. Remember to always clarify the type of cord being sold to avoid misunderstandings.
Remember to always confirm the type of wood, seasoning, and delivery options before purchasing. With careful consideration of these factors, you can confidently obtain the best value for your money when buying a face cord of wood.
