The
appearance of the wood determines how it is "graded." All
grades are equally strong and serviceable, yet afford the consumer
different looks. Oak and ash have four
basic grades.
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"Clear" is
free of defects though it may have minor imperfections.
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"Select" is
almost clear, but contains more natural characteristics such
as knots and color variations.
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"Common" grades
(No. 1 and No. 2) have more markings than either clear or select
and are often chosen because of these natural features and the
character they bring to a room. No. 1 Common has a variegated
appearance, light and dark colors, knots, flags and worm holes.
No 2 Common is rustic in appearance and allow all wood characteristics
of the species.
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Hard
maple, beech, birch and pecan have
three grades:
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"First" has
the best appearance, natural color variations and limited character
marks.
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"Second" is
variegated in appearance with varying sound wood characteristics
of species.
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"Third" is
rustic in appearance allowing all wood characteristics of the
species.
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Information
Provided by the National Wood
Flooring Association
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