Grades of Flooring
The appearance of the wood determines its "grade." All grades are equally strong and serviceable, but each affords you a different look.
- Rift and Quartered
(Applies to red and white oak only). Quarter-sawn lumber has the growth rings of the tree approximately perpendicular to the board's broad face. In contrast, plain-sawn lumber has the growth rings parallel to the board's broad face. Quarter-sawn produces both quartered and rift lumber. Both rift and quartered lumber has superior grain patterns, is less likely to expand or contract, and wears more evenly than plain-sawn lumber. - Clear
Clear wood is free of defects, though it may have minor imperfections. - Select
Select wood is almost clear, but contains some natural characteristics such as knots and color variations. - No 1 Common
Common wood (Numbers 1, 2 and 3) has more natural characteristics such as knots and color variations than either clear or select grades, and often is chosen because of these natural features and the character they bring to a room. No. 1 Common has a variegated appearance, natural color variations and limited character marks. - No 2 Common is more rustic in appearance and emphasize all wood characteristics of the species.
- No. 3 Common is the most economical of the Common varieties, with a pronounced rustic appearance.
To see examples of the various grades, download this Grade Guide published by NOFMA, the Wood Flooring Manufacturers Association.