If you rely on firewood for heating during the colder months or for occasional use in fireplaces, wood stoves, or outdoor fire pits, you’ve probably wondered: How long does a cord of wood last? While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, this guide will help you estimate based on usage, heating needs, wood type, and appliance efficiency.
What Is a Cord of Wood?
A cord of wood is a standardized measurement for firewood. It equals:
- 4 feet high × 4 feet deep × 8 feet long
- A total volume of 128 cubic feet of tightly stacked firewood (including air space between logs)
This is the most common unit used for selling and buying firewood.
Average Lifespan of a Cord of Wood
The lifespan of a cord depends largely on how often and how intensely you burn it. Here’s a general estimate:
| Usage Type | Cord Lifespan Estimate |
| Occasional fireplace use | 1 cord can last an entire winter |
| Daily supplemental heating | 1 cord may last 6–10 weeks |
| Full-time wood stove heating | 4–6 cords per winter (4–5 months) |
So, if you burn wood as your primary heat source, expect to go through 3 to 6 cords in a cold season. If you use wood just for ambience or occasional heating, one cord may last you several months or even a full year.
Factors That Affect How Long a Cord Lasts
- Frequency of Use:
- Daily use for hours will deplete a cord much faster than occasional weekend fires.
- Type of Wood:
- Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory burn longer and hotter than softwoods.
- Softwoods like pine or spruce burn faster and are better for quick fires but not long heating periods.
- Appliance Efficiency:
- Modern EPA-certified wood stoves can burn 30–50% more efficiently than older models, extending how long a cord lasts.
- Fireplaces are less efficient and lose more heat through the chimney.
- Home Size and Insulation:
- A large, poorly insulated home will need more wood than a smaller, well-sealed home.
- Climate and Winter Severity:
- Cold northern climates require more heat, and therefore more firewood, than mild southern regions.
Tips to Maximize Cord Usage
- Use seasoned wood: Drier wood burns more efficiently and produces more heat.
- Stack properly: Keep firewood off the ground and covered to protect it from moisture.
- Maintain your stove: Clean your flue and chimney regularly for better airflow and combustion.
- Use a wood moisture meter: Wood should have less than 20% moisture content for optimal burn efficiency.
Conclusion
A cord of wood can last anywhere from a few weeks to an entire winter, depending on how you use it. Homeowners using wood as their sole heating method may need multiple cords per season, while casual users may only need one. Understanding your heating needs, appliance efficiency, and wood type will help you estimate more accurately and plan ahead for the colder months.
