Understanding Select and Better Hardwood

When it comes to selecting the highest quality hardwood for your next project, you might have come across the term 'Select and Better.' However, this grade of hardwood is often misunderstood as the best choice. Let's delve into the intricacies of Select and Better hardwood, its characteristics, and its place in the broader context of hardwood quality.

Grade Classification in Hardwood

Hardwood is graded into various categories based on a range of factors, including the texture of the grain, the presence of defects, and the overall appearance of the wood. The most common grades include select, better, firsts, and FAS (Firsts and Seconds).

Select and Better – Not Always the Best Choice

Select and Better is not the best grade of hardwood by any definition, unless you are dealing with lazy mills or commercial resellers who may not adhere to stringent grading standards. This grade is often misunderstood as the pinnacle of hardwood quality, but in reality, it falls short of the highest standards.

The Significance of Firsts

The Firsts grade is considered the pinnacle of hardwood quality. It is known for its uniform grain texture and mild color variations, which are a result of the natural differences between heartwood and sapwood. However, it's important to note that only a few mills actually grade for this category, as it is extremely wasteful. The production of Firsts-grade material requires significant effort to remove all defects, making it a costly and time-consuming process.

Firsts and Seconds (FAS) – The Gold Standard

Firsts and Seconds (FAS) is the gold standard in the hardwood grading system. This grade is offered by most reputable mills with certified graders. FAS stands for the highest quality of material, where the face of the board may contain unlimited sound sapwood and occasional small burls. Burls are picturesque swirls in the wood grain that can add unique aesthetic value to your project.

Characteristics of Select and Better Hardwood

Select and Better hardwood is still a high-quality product, but it falls somewhere between the top grade and standard mill run. Key characteristics include:

Uniform Grain Texture: The wood texture is smooth and consistent, which is important for maintaining a cohesive appearance in your project. Mild Color Variations: These variations are subtle and natural, reflecting the differences between heartwood and sapwood. Heartwood is usually darker and denser, while sapwood is lighter in color. Minimal Defects: While not as perfect as Firsts, Select and Better hardwood has fewer defects, ensuring that the wood maintains a uniform appearance and quality. Sapwood Presence: The face of the board may contain unlimited sound sapwood, which can add natural beauty to your project. However, it's important to note that sapwood is generally less dense and may not age as well as heartwood. Small Burls: Occasionally, you might find small burls on the surface of the wood. These can add character and unique visual interest to your finished project.

Conclusion

Select and Better hardwood is a valuable choice for any woodworking project, especially if you are seeking high-quality wood with a consistent appearance and minimal defects. However, it's crucial to understand that it is not the same as the Firsts grade, which represents the very best in hardwood quality.

For those demanding the highest standards in hardwood quality, the Firsts and Seconds grade (FAS) is the way to go. It ensures that your project has the perfect combination of uniformity, quality, and natural beauty. By selecting the right grade, you can ensure that your woodworking project turns out as expected, reflecting your attention to detail and commitment to quality.