A quarter-cord, often expressed as 1/4 cord, is a unit of measurement for firewood. It represents a volume of wood measuring 4 feet wide by 4 feet high by 1 foot deep, totaling 16 cubic feet. This stacked volume, however, often includes air space between the logs. Therefore, the actual amount of solid wood can vary depending on factors like log size, shape, and stacking method. A full cord, by comparison, is four times this volume, equaling 64 cubic feet.
This specific measurement is commonly used for smaller firewood purchases, suitable for occasional fireplace use or smaller wood-burning stoves. Historically, wood has been a vital fuel source for heating and cooking, and standardized units like the cord and quarter-cord facilitated fair trade and efficient resource management. Understanding these units allows consumers to accurately assess the quantity of wood they are purchasing and compare prices effectively. This is particularly relevant in regions where wood remains a primary heating fuel.