In the United States, hardwood strip flooring is sold in face widths of 1½
inches, 2 inches, 2¼ inches, and 3¼ inches.Maple, beech, or birch
flooring
Flooring made of maple, beech, or birch is 25/32 inch thick. Each
piece must be at least 2 feet long in First and Second grade flooring and at least 1¼
feet for Third grade.
There are also three special grades:
- Selected First grade light northern hard maple
- Selected First grade amber northern hard maple
- Selected First grade red (made from northern beech or birch).
In the Second grade, minor imperfections such as small tight knots are permitted. Third
grade flooring must provide a good, serviceable floor.
Oak or pecan flooring comes in thicknesses of 25/32 inch,
½ inch, and 3/8 inch. Pieces must be at least 2 feet long
with a minimum average of 4½ feet in a shipment.
Oak flooring
| Type |
Grade |
|
| Quartersawed |
Clear |
only defect allowed is 3/8 inch of bright sap |
| |
Select |
some pinholes and small tight knots permitted |
| Plainsawed |
Clear |
only defect allowed is 3/8 inch of bright sap |
| |
Select |
some pinholes and small tight knots permitted |
| |
No. 1 Common |
makes a sound floor without cutting |
| |
No. 2 Common |
only required to provide a serviceable floor |
|
