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Lumber Grades Last Updated:[1/9/2006 1:49:20 PM]
While these grading definitions are generally accepted nationwide,
always inspect the wood you buy closely to determine its appropriateness for the intended use!
Hardwood Grades
FAS - Highest grade in hardwood lumber. FAS graded boards must be at least 6"-wide and 8'-long.
FAS boards have to yield 83 1/3% in the defined clear face cuttings. FAS graded wood is commonly used for molding and millwork.
1C - Number 1 common is the "cutting" grade of hardwood lumber, often used in furniture and cabinetry.
Number 1 common boards must yield 66 2/3% in the designated clear face cuttings.
2C - Number 2 common boards must yield 50% in the designated cuttings. In 2A grade, cuttings must be clear; 2B grade allows sound (tight knots etc.) cuttings.
#2 grades are often used in cabinets, flooring and some furniture.
3A - Another hardwood grade used primarily in flooring, furniture frames and pallets. 3A must yield 33 1/3% in the designated cuttings.
2C and Better - the entire grade mix of all Number 2 common and FAS the log will yield.
WHAD - Worm holes with a defect
WHND - Worm holes (unlimited) no defect
Softwood Grades
No. 1 (Construction) - Moderate-sized tight knots.
Takes paint well. Often used for cornice, paneling, siding, shelving, and some furniture.
No. 2 (Standard) - Knots are larger and more numerous. Takes paint reasonably well and has uses similar to No. 1.
No. 3 (Utility) - Splits and knotholes present. Does not paint well.
Used for crates, sheathing, subflooring and small (usually hidden) furniture parts.
No. 4 (Economy) - Numerous splits, knotholes and large waste areas.
Does not take paint well and often relegated to sheathing, subflooring and concrete form work.
No. 5 (Economy) - Larger waste areas and coarser defects.
Does not take paint and has applications similar to No. 5.
ANSI Plywood Grading Standards for Hardwood Plywood
Face Grade
A
Where excellent appearance is very important as in cabinets and furniture.
B
Where the natural characteristics and appearance of the species are desirable.
C - D
Provide sound surfaces but allow unlimited color variation. Repairs in increasing size ranges allowed respectively from C to D. Applications - where surface will be hidden or a more natural appearance is desired.
Back Grade
1 - 2
Provide sound surfaces with all openings in the veneer repaired except for vertical worm holes not larger than 1/16".
3
Some open defects. Repaired splits, joints, bark pockets, laps and knotholes can achieve a sound surface if specified by the buyer.
4
Some open defects. Knotholes up to 4" in diameter are permitted. open splits, and joints limited by width and length.
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