Grades Make the Difference

Color and style are typically the choices most people think they will need to decide when choosing the hardwood flooring for their home. There are actually a number of variables which influence the how the wood looks.

The first variable to consider is the grade. The appearance of the wood determines its grade. Each grade offers a different look, but is equally strong and serviceable.

• Clear Wood - flooring product with minimal character marks that provides a uniform appearance.
• Select Wood - flooring product with natural heartwood/sapwood color variations that also includes knots, streaks, etc.
• Common Wood (No. 1 and No. 2) - more natural characteristics such as knots and color variations than either clear or select grades, and is often chosen because of these natural features and the character they bring to a room.  No. 1 Common has a varied appearance, light and dark colors, knots, streaks, and wormholes. No. 2 Common is rustic in appearance and emphasizes all wood characteristics of the species.
• First Grade - uniform appearance, natural color variations and limited character marks. It is similar to a select grade.
• Second Grade - varied in appearance and features knots and some variation in color. It is similar to a No. 1 Common Grade.
• Third Grade - rustic in appearance allowing all wood characteristics of the species. It is similar to a No. 2 Common Grade.

The specialists at GR Flooring can answer all of your questions and help you choose the right grade of wood for you!