Cord Wood Calculator
Calculate how many cords of firewood you need for a heating season based on your home size and climate.
Formula
Cords = (home sq ft ÷ 1000) × rate × heating months
- Rates vary: mild 0.1, moderate 0.15, cold 0.22, very cold 0.3 cords per 1,000 sq ft per month.
- 1 cord = 128 cubic feet of stacked wood.
- Assumes well-seasoned hardwood as primary heat source.
1,500 sq ft home, cold climate, 5 months
Inputs
- Home Size: 1500 sq ft
- Climate Zone: cold
- Heating Season Length: 5 months
- Price per Cord: 300 $
(1.5 × 0.22 × 5) = 1.65 cords. At $300/cord: $495.
Frequently asked questions
What is a cord of wood?
A standard cord is a stacked pile 4 ft × 4 ft × 8 ft = 128 cubic feet.
What wood species is best?
Hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash have higher BTU content than softwoods.
Should wood be seasoned?
Yes — freshly cut (green) wood has high moisture and burns inefficiently. Season for 6–12 months.
How does insulation affect needs?
A well-insulated home may need 30–50% less firewood than a poorly insulated one.