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North American softwood (NLGA)
The NLGA (National Lumber Grades Authority) rules define the quality and dimensions of lumber for export.
Carpentry and structural timber which does not need a grading according to mechanical resistance are graded according to the R list rules.
KnotsShakesWaneOther imperfections
CLEAR 2 or B CLEAR4 non-grouped sound knots are tolerated on counter-face and counter-edgePermitted shake length : 1/2 of the piece's widthNot permittedSlight drying checks (cracks) - discoloration of heart wood, stain, twisted grain and gum pockets not permitted - Slight sapwood is permitted on 1/4 of the surface
CLEAR 3 or C CLEAR4 sound knots are tolerated on face and edge. A little more on counter-face and counter-edgePermitted shake length : the piece's widthNot permittedSlight drying checks (cracks) - discoloration of heart wood, stain, twisted grain and gum pockets not permitted - Slight sapwood altered
CLEAR 4 or D CLEARNot ruledPermitted shake length : the piece's widthPermitted wane length : the piece's widthMedium discoloration of the heart wood - stains on 10 % of the face and 25 % of the counter-face - 5 gum pockets are permitted - twisted grain permitted
Timber for further processing, planed on one or two sides, requiring classification according to mechanical resistance for specific uses (wall panelling, skirtings, shelves, carcassing, packing, roofing battens & beams and other structural pieces for common construction) are classified under the NLGA rules.
Grade Merchantable
SELECT MerchantableFor quality structure works, requiring sound, resistant wood of good appearance
No1 MerchantableFor construction, when resistance prevails over appearance
For common construction but without offcuts
No3 CommonFor secondary applications such and packaging and pallets
Grade Structural (mechanical classification)
Light FramingLight mechanical perfomances needed
Select StructuralFor all construction applications, when good appearance and high mechanical performances in flexion, traction and compression are required
Grade Factory
Factory FlitchFor all applications in carpentry and manufacturing of doors, windows, , furniture and small structures. Yields at least 80 % in volume of wood exempt of defects
Shop FlitchFor similar applications as Factory Flitch. Yields at least 60 % in volume of wood exempt of defects
ShopFor sub-products of various widths and shorter lengths


Reference: National Lumber Grades Authority (NLGA - http://www.nlga.org/)