What is NHLA?
The National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) sets the lumber grading rules used worldwide. Grades are based on the proportion of clear cuttings that can be obtained from each board.
Common grades
- FAS (First and Seconds): top grade, long wide boards with a high clear yield – for large parts and premium appearance.
- 1C (No.1 Common): fewer defects, many clear cuttings – a popular economical choice for furniture.
- 2C (No.2 Common): more knots and defects – suited to small parts, glued panels and painted items.
- 3C (No.3 Common): lowest price – for pallets, hidden parts or short cuttings.
Choosing a grade
Choose by the size of parts you cut and surface requirements: higher grades waste less but cost more. Many workshops use 1C–2C for volume production and FAS for premium lines.
Spring Wood supplies oak, ash, poplar and hickory in FAS/1C/2C/3C. Contact us for grade advice.