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Knowledge Base: Hardwood Flooring Grades

Hardwood Flooring Grades

In the United States, hardwood strip flooring is sold in face widths of 1½ inches, 2 inches, 2¼ inches, and 3¼ inches.

Maple, beech, or birch flooring

Flooring made of maple, beech, or birch is 25/32 inch thick. Each piece must be at least 2 feet long in First and Second grade flooring and at least 1¼ feet for Third grade. 

There are also three special grades:

  • Selected First grade light northern hard maple
  • Selected First grade amber northern hard maple
  • Selected First grade red (made from northern beech or birch).

In the Second grade, minor imperfections such as small tight knots are permitted. Third grade flooring must provide a good, serviceable floor.

Oak or pecan flooring comes in thicknesses of 25/32 inch, ½ inch, and 3/8 inch. Pieces must be at least 2 feet long with a minimum average of 4½ feet in a shipment.

Oak flooring

Type Grade  
Quartersawed Clear only defect allowed is 3/8 inch of bright sap
  Select some pinholes and small tight knots permitted
Plainsawed Clear only defect allowed is 3/8 inch of bright sap
  Select some pinholes and small tight knots permitted
  No. 1 Common makes a sound floor without cutting
  No. 2 Common only required to provide a serviceable floor