Timber grading is the process of classifying timber flooring based on the natural features or characteristics present in the individual boards. Most commonly you will find three ‘grades’ or classifications (in line with the Australian Standard), although the names may vary from supplier to supplier making it confusing to compare quotes. It’s also important to understand that not all grades are available in all species or species mixes. While the decision about timber grade is largely aesthetic (how your new floor will look), the grade you choose may also impact the cost of your flooring. It is normal to pay a bit more for Select grade which has fewer features and gives a ‘cleaner’ look overall.
In this article we explain:
- the three main timber grades,
- what the Australian Standard means and
- how we can help you determine what grade might be best for you.
If you’re still unsure about what timber grade would be best for you after reading this, visit our Brisbane showroom to see the difference in person. Our timber floor experts are more than happy to explain timber grading and the natural variation you can expect between different species.
Timber Grading Explained
Here at NS Timber Flooring, we use the following timber grades:
- Select (also known as Premium)
- Standard (also known as Feature)
- Rustic (also known as Heavy Feature)
Select Grade Timber Flooring
Select grade or premium timber is the ‘cleanest’ grade option. The natural timber markings will not dominate the appearance of the floor.
The size and number of natural wood markings presented on an individual board are minimal and less prominent. In accordance with the Australian Standard, there are only slight visible features permitted such as short narrow gum veins but these are kept to a minimum.
Select Grade
Standard Grade Timber Flooring
Standard or feature grade will likely have significantly more and larger noticeable features or ‘character’ than a premium grade floor.
This will include an increased amount of gum vein, past borer activity, knots and natural discolouration adding to that natural floor appearance.
Keep in mind, the amount of feature can vary from species to species, and will also depend on past forest activity.
Standard Grade
Rustic Grade Timber Flooring
Rustic grade is considered a high feature grade of timber.
In these floorboards you can expect similar features to Standard Grade but where the natural feature may more frequent and gum veins longer.
As always, this will depend on the species of timber and features will vary between boards. In some instances, some boards may only appear to be moderately featured.
A rustic grade floor also makes the most of the timber resource, as all boards including those with high features are used and not wasted. If you are seeking a truly naturally featured floor this is the way to go.
Rustic Grade
Timber Flooring Australian Standards
There is a set of Australian standards which outlines what is (and isn’t) permissible for sawn and milled products such as floorboards. The AS 2796 standard comprises of three grades and the only difference between them is the size and number of the features allowable.
Manufacturers also have their own set of rules that they produce to identify the timber floor grading. Some specific grading rules can include prestige, standard and better grade.
At NS Timber Flooring, we proud to be affiliated with several leading Industry Associations. We are an honoured member of ATFA – Australasian Timber Flooring Association and have a level 3 accreditation. We also have a collection of awards, so you can be assured of the highest quality outcome for your project.
Grading of Timber
To ensure that the grade and level of feature in your new timber floor is as your expectation please contact the team at NS Timber Flooring.
It’s always best to clarify the grade before signing a contract to avoid any surprises on installation.
Located in Brendale, NS Timber Flooring have a dedicated showroom with an extensive range of samples. In our showroom, you can see a true representation of different grades of flooring to help make a more informed decision as to what species and grade will be best for your home or property.
Book An Appointment for the NS Timber Flooring Showroom today.
