Wood ‘grade’ is the system used by the National Hardwood Flooring Association to determine the appearance of wood. The ‘grades’ reflect the following characteristics of the wood:
*Color *Grain *Pattern *Other natural markings (knots)
The above standards exist to provide consumers with the best quality lumber. Between the ‘grades’, durability IS NOT compromised. They all share the same durability, but each provides a different look. The ‘degrees’ are listed below:
*CLEAR A transparent ‘grade’ of wood is light in color and looks flawless. The grain pattern is very uniform with almost no color variation.
*SELECT Almost a light ‘grade’ wood, but is slightly darker in color. It still looks flawless to the eye and shows a bit more features than a clear “grade”.
*COMMON This ‘grade’ is most often used in homes due to its price and availability. It is less expensive than the Clear or Select ‘grades’. Regular wood displays more natural wood characteristics such as greater color variation, change in grain pattern and/or swirls, and a fair amount of knots throughout. This ‘grade’ looks best on the eye and looks very natural in the home.
*NO. 1 COMMON: Slight variation between light and dark colors change in grain pattern and some small knots
*NO. 2 COMMON: Slightly more rustic, more color variation, and knots throughout
*NO. 3 COMMON: The most rustic appearance of all the ‘grades’ of hardwood flooring. ALL natural characteristics of natural wood are evident (lots of color variation, grain pattern/change in grain pattern, lots of knots and wormholes)
