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Timber Types & Log Grades

The main factors to consider when grading hardwoods are the wood appearance and its physical properties. The appearance of the wood is a very important factor when grading the timber. The size and number of pieces are other factors considered for grading. Trees that can provide large pieces of clear and defect-free wood are graded higher. High-grade hardwoods will have a large portion of usable material, as opposed to lower-grade woods with a lower usable material yield.

High-grade hardwoods

High-grade Hardwoods

  1. FAS (Firsts and Seconds): This is the highest grade of hardwood with both faces of the board meeting FAS grade requirements.
  2. FAS/1F (FAS-One-Face): Only one face of the board is required to meet the FAS requirement. The other can have a number 1 common grade.
  3. Sel (Selects): Have the same requirements as FAS but with reduced length and width.

The higher-grade hardwoods are suitable for a wider range of premium and common timber applications like cabinets, flooring, furniture, molding, and outdoor applications.

Common grade hardwoods

Common Grade Hardwoods

Common grade hardwoods are not as aesthetically appealing as high-grade woods. They also have lower physical qualities, moderate strength and durability. They are divided into two grades, No. 1 Common & No. 2 Common.

  • Number 1 Common (No. 1C): This is also referred to as cabinet grade wood and used for making kitchen cabinets and furniture.
  • Number 2A Common (No. 2AC): This is referred to as economy grade and used for hardwood flooring and building small furniture parts.

Common grade hardwoods suitable for common applications, such as plywood, strip flooring, furniture parts, cabinetwork for kitchens, and plank.