The phrase "1 2 face cord of wood" is a bit cryptic, even for seasoned firewood buyers. It's not a standard unit of measurement, and its meaning depends heavily on context and local customs. Let's break down what it likely means and address some common questions.
What is a Face Cord of Wood?
Before tackling the "1 2" part, understanding a face cord is crucial. A face cord is a stack of firewood that's 4 feet high and 8 feet long. The depth, however, is variable—this is where things get tricky. The depth is usually determined by the length of the individual pieces of wood. For example, if you have 16-inch logs, they'll be stacked to a depth of about 16 inches. If you're using shorter logs, the depth will change accordingly. This means that two face cords might contain vastly different volumes of wood. This lack of standardization is a major source of confusion and potential miscommunication.
What Does "1 2 Face Cord of Wood" Mean?
This is where interpretation comes in. "1 2 face cord" most likely means one and a half face cords. Someone might say this instead of using the decimal equivalent of 1.5. It's a colloquialism, not a formal measurement. In other words, you would expect a stack of firewood 4 feet high and 8 feet long, with the depth summing up to the equivalent of 1.5 times the length of individual logs.
How Many Cubic Feet Are in a 1 2 Face Cord?
This is impossible to answer definitively without knowing the length of the wood pieces. A face cord's cubic footage varies significantly based on log length. For example:
- 16-inch wood: A face cord would be approximately 4ft x 8ft x 1.33ft = 42.6 cubic feet. 1.5 face cords would therefore be approximately 64 cubic feet.
- 12-inch wood: A face cord would be approximately 4ft x 8ft x 1ft = 32 cubic feet. 1.5 face cords would be approximately 48 cubic feet.
It's crucial to clarify the length of the wood when purchasing firewood by face cord, to avoid discrepancies and ensure you're getting the amount you expect.
How is a face cord different from a cord of wood?
A cord of wood is a standard unit of measurement: a stack of wood 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, totaling 128 cubic feet. A face cord is a fraction of a cord, its volume being determined by the length of the split wood.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of buying firewood by the face cord?
Advantages:
- Easier to measure: Face cords are quicker to measure on-site than cords.
- Suitable for smaller quantities: Face cords are useful when you don't need a full cord.
Disadvantages:
- Inconsistent volume: The lack of standardized depth creates ambiguity regarding the actual volume of wood.
- Potential for overcharging: Buyers can be easily misled or overcharged if the wood length isn't specified.
How can I avoid confusion when buying firewood?
To avoid misunderstandings:
- Clarify the wood length: Always confirm the length of the wood pieces before purchasing firewood by the face cord.
- Ask for a cubic foot measurement: This provides a more consistent and accurate measure of the wood volume.
- Inspect the stack: Before accepting delivery, carefully inspect the stack to ensure it meets the agreed-upon dimensions.
- Use a standard unit: Consider buying firewood by the cubic foot or cord for greater clarity and accuracy.
Buying firewood can be confusing, especially with unconventional measurements like "1 2 face cord." By understanding the nuances of face cords and cords, and by always clarifying the specifics with the seller, you can ensure a smoother and more accurate transaction. Remember, clear communication is key to a successful firewood purchase.
