Face Checking
Face-checking appears as long cracks in the veneer which run down the length of the board in engineered flooring.
Cause
- It usually happens when flooring is manufactured with a MC that is incompatible with the environmental conditions at the installation site.
Cure
- Correct the humidity levels and follow appropriate maintenance procedures. Fill gaps as necessary and sand, fill, and refinish the floor if necessary (this may not always restore the original look of the floor). In some cases, certain boards (or possibly the entire floor) may need to be replaced.
Get In Touch
Our team stands ready to source and deliver the wood flooring required for your next large-scale project.
Wood Flooring Grades
Wood that exhibits similar attributes such as character, length and milling tolerances are grouped together in a grade. The grades were established by the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) in conjunction with manufacturer associations to create consistency among different mills and provide the consumers and distributors with more defined expectations for their purchases. This instills confidence in all parties and helps to maintain fair pricing.
Keep in mind that sometimes grades are combined (Select & Better, Second and Better, etc.) or are a mix of two standard grades (No. 1 Common, No. 2 Common, etc.).
Mill Run (also known as Run of the Mill) is typically a mix of grades and has longer pieces. True to its name, this type of hardwood flooring is unique to the mill. This is an economical option for consumers and manufacturers alike.
Click through to read detailed descriptions and photos for each species:
- Birch and Hard Maple Grades
- Hickory Grades
- Oak Grades
- Pine Grades
- Walnut Grades
Get In Touch
Our team stands ready to source and deliver the wood flooring required for your next large-scale project.
Wood Flooring Grades
Grading is determined by the appearance of the wood and is an indication of aesthetics rather than quality or durability.
Wood that exhibits similar attributes such as character, length and milling tolerances are grouped together in a grade. The grades were established by the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) in conjunction with manufacturer associations to create consistency among different mills and provide the consumers and distributors with more defined expectations for their purchases. This instills confidence in all parties and helps to maintain fair pricing.
Keep in mind that sometimes grades are combined (Select & Better, Second and Better, etc.) or are a mix of two standard grades (No. 1 Common, No. 2 Common, etc.).
Mill Run (also known as Run of the Mill) is typically a mix of grades and has longer pieces. True to its name, this type of hardwood flooring is unique to the mill. This is an economical option for consumers and manufacturers alike.
Click through to read detailed descriptions and photos for each species:
- Birch and Hard Maple Grades
- Hickory Grades
- Oak Grades
- Pine Grades
- Walnut Grades

