Havwoods wood flooring grading explained
Havwoods’ wood flooring is sourced from many different countries, each with different grading rules and industry standards. To make it easier for you, we have established our own definitions.
As oak is our most popular hardwood species, the examples below illustrate the characteristics you can typically expect to see when you buy wood flooring from us. In these examples we show what is likely to be typical in terms of the knot sizes, sapwood and other characteristics of the raw material.
As every piece of wood is unique and grading is carried out by eye, occasional boards may vary.
Our grading criteria is merely a guide, given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge.
Prime grade
Our prime grade flooring has few, if any knots, and these will be of minimal size; there will also be a minimal amount of sapwood and filler, if any at all.
The color of the filler is intended to complement the natural structure of the wood, where features such as knots are in contrast to the surrounding timber, and it may vary from batch to batch.
There will be a relatively small amount of color variation in the timber itself, unless a reactive finish such as smoking or fuming has been used to accentuate the variation.
Select grade
Typically, select grade will have a mix of almost prime boards with other planks which have more knots of a limited size.
Expect some variation in tone from heartwood and sapwood as well as small checks (cracks across the growth ring).
There will be some filled elements, such as broken knots. The color of the filler is intended to complement the natural structure of the wood, where features such as knots are in contrast to the surrounding timber, and it may vary from batch to batch.
Classic grade
Classic grade floors show the natural variation of timber without allowing some of the more characterful features in more rustic grades.
Planks with very few knots will be mixed with some planks containing larger knots or checks (cracks across the growth ring) which may be filled.
Variation between tone from heartwood and sapwood can be expected but is controlled.
Character grade
Typically, character grade will include both heartwood and sapwood and allows a wider range of color variation.
Knots are larger and you should expect checks (cracks across the growth ring) and possibly some end shake (cracks between the rings).
The color of the filler is intended to complement the natural structure of the wood, where features such as knots are in contrast to the surrounding timber, and it may vary from batch to batch.
Rustic grade
Known as either natural or rustic grade this allows a virtually limitless size and number of knots.
Heartwood will be used, there will be color variation, sapwood and filler; you should also expect checks (cracks across the growth ring) and possibly some end shake (cracks between the rings).
The color of the filler is intended to complement the natural structure of the wood, where features such as knots are in contrast to the surrounding timber, and it may vary from batch to batch.
Why is prime grade so sought after?
One of the most sought-after timber grades, prime grade wood flooring is valued for its clean, consistent appearance and minimal natural characteristics.
Achieving this refined look begins in the forest, where only a limited number of trees naturally produce long sections of timber with few or no branches. While small knots and subtle color variation may be present, the overall aesthetic is refined, making it an ideal choice for projects seeking a sophisticated finish.
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Knots and Filler
Knots are natural features in wood, formed where a side branch once grew or where a dormant bud developed. As the grain flows around these points, knots create unique patterns and textures that add character to each plank. In some cases, knots may be replaced or reinforced with filler to maintain the floor’s structural integrity.
This filler is carefully selected to complement the wood’s natural tones and may appear in a variety of colours, including white, grey, brown, or black. These variations in both knots and filler enhance the authenticity and charm of real wood flooring, making each board truly unique.
Sapwood
Sapwood is the younger, living part of a tree that transports water and nutrients. It typically appears lighter in colour than heartwood, creating natural variation across wood flooring. During fuming, smoking, or colouring processes, sapwood reacts differently, often remaining lighter, thereby enhancing contrast and visual interest.
Although sapwood contains more moisture in its raw state, this does not affect product performance. At Havwoods, all timber is expertly kiln-dried and engineered to ensure stability and durability.
When included in flooring, sapwood adds unique detail and depth, contributing to the overall character and natural appeal of the wood.
Medullary Rays, Checks and Shakes
Medullary rays are the fine, ribbon-like markings often visible in quarter-sawn wood. These natural features appear as pale streaks running across the grain and are a clear sign of high-quality craftsmanship. Quarter-sawing enhances stability and highlights these striking visuals.
Checks and shakes, on the other hand, are natural cracks that typically form along or between growth rings, most commonly found at the ends of boards. These may be removed during installation or filled where needed.
While they’re part of the wood’s natural character, neither checks nor shakes affects the integrity of Havwoods’ engineered wood flooring when installed correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between wood flooring grades?
Wood flooring grades reflect the visual characteristics of the timber. Prime grade is clean and uniform, while Rustic includes knots and colour variation. Select and Character grades offer a balance of natural features. Each grade offers a unique aesthetic, but all maintain the same high quality.
Do knots and filler affect floor performance?
No. Knots and filler are purely aesthetic and do not impact the structural integrity of engineered wood flooring. Filler is professionally applied to enhance appearance and stability. Its colour complements the wood, though it may vary slightly between batches to suit the plank’s natural tones.
What is sapwood, and will it affect my floor?
Sapwood is the lighter outer layer of a tree where water flows. It doesn’t react to treatments like heartwood, resulting in natural colour contrast. Though it originally holds more moisture, Havwoods’ drying and engineering processes ensure that sapwood is stable and perfectly suited for high-quality wood flooring.
Why do some planks have cracks or splits?
These are known as checks or shakes and are a natural part of real wood. Checks usually form across the growth rings, while shakes run between them. They’re often trimmed during installation or filled as needed and don’t compromise the durability of Havwoods engineered flooring products.
What are medullary rays in wood flooring?
Medullary rays are pale, ribbon-like streaks found in quarter-sawn wood. They are natural features that enhance the floor’s visual appeal and indicate premium craftsmanship. Their presence adds character without impacting the quality or performance of the board, making each plank visually unique and beautifully detailed.
Seeing is believing.
An in-person, or even virtual, showroom appointment provides a close look at all the different elements of wood floor collections.