The Grade

​When selecting engineered oak flooring, understanding the various wood grades is essential to achieving the desired aesthetic and character for your space. At JS Woodcraft Flooring, we categorize our engineered oak flooring into three primary grades: Prime, Nature, and Rustic. 

Prime Grade

Prime grade oak flooring is characterized by its clean and uniform appearance. This grade features minimal knots and color variations, offering a refined and contemporary look. Specifically, only pin knots up to 10mm in diameter are allowed, limited to three knots per board. There are no bark pockets, splits, or wormholes permitted, and edge sap is not allowed, with core sap limited to 5% of the total volume. This selection ensures a harmonious structure with slight color nuances, making it ideal for modern interiors seeking a sleek and elegant finish. 

Nature Grade

Nature grade flooring embraces the wood's inherent beauty by allowing certain natural characteristics. This grade permits healthy knots up to 30mm in diameter, with a limit of five knots per board. Filled cracked knots and dead knot holes are also allowed within specified sizes. While bark pockets, splits, and wormholes are not permitted, natural color variations are accepted, excluding dark heartwood. Edge sap is disallowed, and core sap is limited to 5% of the total volume. Nature grade offers a balanced aesthetic, showcasing the wood's authenticity without overwhelming character features, suitable for those desiring a warm and inviting atmosphere. 

Rustic Grade

Rustic grade flooring highlights the wood's natural character, featuring unlimited healthy knots, mineral streaks, and varying color variations. This grade allows filled cracked knots up to 60mm and filled dead knots up to 30mm, with larger dead knot holes potentially replaced with knots. Limited small bark pockets and splits up to 3mm in width (not exceeding the plank's width) are acceptable, comprising up to 20% of the total volume. Edge sap is allowed up to 30% of the board's width, and core sap is limited to 15% of the total volume. This selection is perfect for those seeking a rustic and natural beauty, adding unique visual elements that create a warm and inviting aesthetic. 

Additional Considerations

When choosing the appropriate grade for your engineered oak flooring, consider the following factors:​

• Aesthetic Preferences: Determine whether you prefer a clean, uniform look (Prime), a balance between character and subtlety (Nature), or a floor rich in natural features (Rustic).​

• Interior Design Style: Align the wood grade with your overall design theme. Prime grade suits contemporary settings, while Rustic grade complements traditional or farmhouse styles.

  
  
  
  

• Budget: Higher-grade wood flooring, such as Prime grade, typically comes at a higher cost due to the selection process. ​

Understanding these grades ensures you select engineered oak flooring that not only meets your aesthetic desires but also fits your project's practical requirements. At JS Woodcraft Flooring, we offer a range of options to help you find the perfect match for your space.