First Grade is clean and contemporary without a lot of color variation. It has the occasional small black mineral streak and has longer boards than other grades.

Third Grade is more rustic with black & brown mineral streaks, small knots, lots of color variation, and shorter boards. A great value floor especially if you like natural characteristics of wood.

Second Grade has more color and character than first grade, but less than third. The most popular grade of maple because its blend of color variation and mild character.

The highest grade for non-maple floors. Clear provides minimal color variation and highlights rich, natural characteristics. Important in exotic woods that can have different degrees of color variation in different grades.

Select grade allows for some variation within the woods with smaller mineral streaks and tiny knots. Most traditional oak floors are in this grade.

Common grade allows color variation, knots, mineral streaks, and shorter boards. It is a great value in oak floors and creates a more casual feel.

Known as Glacier, Character, and Rustic. Milled for tight knots, mineral streaks, color variation, and usually longer boards. A perfect choice for lots of natural character.

A specialty cut of wood that minimizes the grain and provides a satiny appearance where light reflects deep in the grain. A great floor if you like mission style.

Cut from the center(heart)of the tree. The floor will be more consistent and darker in color. Most common in maple, birch, and hickory.