With hardwood flooring, “grade” refers to the amount of color variation visible in the hardwood planks, as well as other character marks, such as mineral streaks, knots, and worm holes.
Different hardwood floor manufacturers often use their own terms for the grades, but generally hardwood flooring falls into one of four categories:
First Grade
Also known as “clear,” this grade has the least amount of variation and is relatively uniform in color and appearance.
Second Grade
Also known as “select,” hardwood in this grade has a mild to moderate amount of natural variation, such as mineral streaks, very small knots, and color changes.
Third Grade
Also known as “common” grade, this hardwood has the most variation. Common-grade hardwood makes a perfect choice for a more relaxed feel.
Rustic or Character Grade
In this grade (sometimes also called “glacier,” “eco,” “natural,” etc.), a substantial amount of color variation is usually found, as well as mineral streaks, larger knots, and worm holes.
Often, when people hear “first grade,” they assume it’s the best quality of wood, better than second grade and so on. But that’s not how it works. The grades are not a reflection of quality; they merely describe the look of the wood. Which grade is best is a personal preference.
