The Grade
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
When wood is lumbered, it is categorised based on four levels of appearance, commonly referred to as 'grade'.
The grade does not reflect in the quality; it relates solely to the wood’s visual characteristics.
The grades available to wood flooring are Prime, Select, Nature or Rustic
Rustic Grade
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
There are several reasons why rustic grade remains popular for engineered wood flooring. A rustic grade is particularly appealing due to its visual appeal, affordable price and unique character. It features healthy unlimined knots, mineral streaks, and varying color variations, which add a rustic and natural beauty to the flooring. These unique visual elements make rustic grade wood flooring an attractive choice for those seeking a warm and inviting aesthetic in their space.
Rustic Grading Rules
Knot content:
Unlimited healthy knots allowed, filled cracked knots up to 60mm allowed. Filled dead knots up to 30mm allowed, (replacement knots may be used on larger dead knot holes) Total of knots is unlimited.
Other traits:
Limited small bark pockets allowed, splits up to 3mm in width and length of which doesn't exceed the width of the plank allowed, limited to 20% of total volume. No worm hole allowed.
Sap content:
Edge sap allowed limited to 30% of the width of the board. Limited core sap to 15% of total volume.
Colour:
Natural variation allowed, small amounts of dark heart wood allowed.
Inspiration
Rustic
Rustic
Rustic
Rustic
Nature Grade
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
Traditionally, nature grade flooring will have some live knots about 30mm diameter and filled with wood filler. Number of knots could be limited per board. Sapwood and natural colour variation is usually allowed in this grade. Nature grade flooring has limited knots and color variations. Unlike prime grade that may prioritize a more uniform appearance, nature grade flooring embraces the natural beauty of the wood, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that is both unique and visually appealing.
Nature Grading Rules
Knot content:
Healthy knots up to 30mm diameter allowed, filled cracked knots up to 30mm diameter allowed, filled dead knot holes up to 20mm diameter allowed, total number of knots is limited 5 per board.
Other traits:
No bark pockets, split or worn holes allowed.
Sap content:
No edge sap allowed, limited core sap to 5% of total volume.
Colour:
Natural variation allowed, no dark heart wood allowed
Inspiration
Prime Grade
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
The Prime timber selected will be more even in patina and colour and contain very limited knotting. Straightest grain and the least number of burrs and character marks. Harmonious structuring and slight colour nuances.
Prime Grading Rules
Knot content:
Only pin knots up to 10mm diameter allowed, limited to 3 knots per board.
Other traits:
No bark pockets, splits or worm holes allowed.
Sap content:
No edge sap allowed, limited core sap to 5% of total volume.
Colour:
Natural variation allowed, no dark heart wood allowed
Inspiration
Prime
Prime
Prime