In the previous post, we discussed log selection and the differences between plain-sawn, quarter-sawn, and rift-sawn logs in the manufacturing process of solid hardwood. Engineered wood floors, on the other hand, are typically cut using the dry-sawn method or processed using either the rotary peel or sliced peel method.
Now, let’s move on to grading. When it comes to how hardwood flooring is made, grading is a crucial factor. Different grades can significantly affect the appearance, style, and even the lifespan of the flooring. Understanding the grading system helps you choose the right flooring for your aesthetic preferences and functional needs.
Understanding Different Wood Flooring Grades
Prefinished wood flooring grades are different than unfinished hardwood flooring grades, even though you’ll spot a similar pattern.
Clear Grade: at the top of the list in both cases. With the highest grade possible, this type of wood flooring presents consistent coloring and is clear of knots, wanes, and holes. Clear grade is stable and expensive.
Select and/or Better: is next on the grading scale, and looks very similar to a clear grade. When the plank has slightly more discoloration, knots, or holes than those in the clear grade category, it’s placed in select or better. Many homeowners and commercial landowners choose this grade for its near-perfect appearance.
#1 and #2 Common: the next two grades on the scale for prefinished wood floors. Unfinished varieties don’t often go below select or better, although country and exclusive grades may be available in domestic woods from the smaller manufacturers.
#1 and #2 Common grades boast a decent strength and fairly attractive appearance, but when compared to a select or clear grade this type of wood has more character and knots when compared to their counterparts.
Those searching for a rough-hewn look should ask for cabin grade or shorts, the bottom grades in prefinished wood floors that offer noticeable visual flaws, checking, and unfilled holes.
Planing and T&G
Once hardwood flooring planks are graded for appearance, they are planed to create a smooth surface on both sides of the board. After planing, the wood is passed through machinery to cut the distinctive tongue and groove shape.
This design allows for tightly fitted flooring that still allows for natural expansion and contraction. The planks have tongues on two sides (either top or bottom, and left or right) and matching grooves on the other sides, enabling the planks to lock together during installation.
Click-lock engineered wood floors are made by bonding a graded hardwood veneer to a thick foundation of specially designed plywood. These click-lock styles are shaped similarly to tongue-and-groove hardwood, but instead of interlocking with a traditional groove, the tongues click into place and stay securely fixed due to their unique design.
Finishing touches are the last stage on our journey of discovering how hardwood flooring is made. Tune into the next post for an inside look at how each type of finish is created.