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Grading
Guide
Resources
Grading Guide
Understanding
Hardwood Lumber Grading
The rules for the inspections of hardwood lumber are uniform in design and application but also carry with them the element of stability. Established more than 125 years ago, the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) set the North American hardwood industry standards for grading lumber. These standard grades maximize lumber value and yield, ensuring sustainable management of NA hardwood. Led by Chief Inspector Dana Spessert, this video illustrates the use and importance of the National Hardwood Lumber Association’s (NHLA) grading rules.
Grading Guide
NHLA has been the governing body for hardwood lumber grading since 1898, when it established industry standards with the "Rules for the Measurement & Inspection of Hardwood & Cypress." The NHLA oversees and updates these rules, ensuring they evolve to meet market needs. It also arbitrates grading disputes and operates the Inspector Training School, the first step to becoming an NHLA-trained Lumber Inspector! The current NHLA Rules Book is available for free download in multiple languages through the Google Play and Apple App Stores.
Who Makes
the Rules?
Grading Guide
The NHLA grades for hardwood lumber are based on the amount of clear, defect-free wood, ensuring quality and consistency. The top grade, FAS (Firsts and Seconds), offers the highest quantity of clear wood, ideal for fine woodworking. FAS One Face (F1F) and Selects grades provide the same amount of clear wood on one side of the board as FAS. No. 1 Common grade provides the same quality of wood as the FAS in less quantity and dimensions and is best suited for cabinets and furniture. These standardized grades help buyers and sellers maintain transparency and trust in the hardwood lumber industry.
Get to Know
the Grades
Grading Guide
Selecting the right grade guarantees the desired quality and appearance of the finished product. For premium finishes, the FAS (Firsts and Seconds) grade offers the highest percentage of clear pieces with larger dimensions, perfect for upscale interiors or furniture where aesthetics are paramount. If the project calls for a unique grain pattern with a consistent feel and look, utilize the Quartered Lumber rules for the varying species. To emphasize natural aesthetics, choose Colonial Poplar or Rustic Oak grade, showcasing unique natural character and knots to make a space more original. When requesting lumber, specifying NHLA grades that best fit the project ensures the perfect match for design intentions, elevating projects to new heights of craftsmanship and style.
What to
Look For
