This video workshop provides a simplified but informative explanation of the grading rules for American hardwood lumber. Presented by Dana Spessert, Chief Inspector of the NHLA, the rules were established over 125 years ago by the, then newly formed, National Lumber Association (NHLA). Today the NHLA has over 650 members worldwide and the NHLA rules are still the national standard for the U.S. hardwood industry and form the basis for grading of export lumber.

More information on grading and species can be found in AHEC’s guide to sustainable American hardwoods, available online here: https://www.americanhardwood.org/inde...

The film has been produced by a live recording of a typical grading workshop presented by Dana Spessert. If you are interested in learning more about the grading workshops or would like to arrange a workshop for your team, please do get in touch at [email protected]

Correction: 02:28 this equation isn't to be divided by 12, therefore should simply read: 8' SM x 2" thickness = 16' board feet

00:00 Introduction
00:38 Measurement
03:33 Characteristics
04:53 Defects
08:01 The grades
08:34 The grades: FAS
11:42 The grades: Number 1 Common
14:14 FAS One Face & Selects
15:25 The grades: Number 2 Common