Lumber isn’t one-size-fits-all, and there is a lot to consider beyond the size. When it’s time to buy lumber for a project, it’s crucial to make sure the right lumber is used for the structure and look of the project. Whether someone is building a house or creating heirloom furniture to pass down through their family, they’re going to want to understand the lumber grading and how to find the right wood to purchase.
Why Lumber Grading is Important
Grading helps to show buyers the strength and quality of the wood. Higher grading means the wood is clean, strong, and ready for use without potential issues. Lower grades may have some defects, but are often still okay to use depending on the project and the strength needed. Lumber yards like Hughes Lumber will have a range of grades to choose from. Whether someone is looking for the best quality or a cheaper option, they can find it at a lumber yard.
Softwood Grading Options
Softwood is generally used in construction and is graded on a scale intended to help show the usability of the wood. Select Structural (SS) grade wood is the highest grade possible and is used when strength is critical. Then there are grades one, two, and three. Grade one is slightly below SS, while grade two may have more imperfections and knots. Grade three tends to have more defects and is used when strength isn’t critical. Construction grade is a combination of grades one and two, and it can be used for any general construction purposes.
Hardwood Grading Options
The highest grades for hardwood include first and seconds, which generally are clear and free of defects. Select, for hardwoods, means that it’s a slightly lower quality and may have more knots or imperfections. It’s still a good choice for many projects. Number one and number two common are the hardwoods that have more defects and are best used where the wood won’t be seen, since they may not be as visually pleasing as higher grades.
What Impacts Lumber Grades
There are a variety of different factors that can impact the grading of lumber. Visual imperfections like knots or the evenness of the grain can have an impact on the quality of the wood. Any splits or cracks that happen during drying can cause the wood to be weaker, which would mean it has a lower grade. If there is bark or missing wood along the edge of the board, it can also have a lower grade.
Other Information to Consider
Along with the grade of the wood, it can include identifying information such as the mill the wood was produced at or the type of wood. It often will also include information about the moisture content, which can impact the wood’s stability after it is used. Wood can be kiln dried or air dried, and the amount of time it’s dried can make a difference in how much moisture is removed before it’s sold.
No matter why wood is needed, it’s important to understand lumber grading and what is involved in it to be able to purchase the right materials. Take the time to check out the options available at the local lumber yard to find the perfect wood for your project.
