EASTERN WHITE PINE LUMBER GRADES
NELMA’s Eastern White Pine grade rules define the limiting characteristics (knots, holes, splits, etc.) allowed in each grade (quality level). While the rules describe the poorest piece permitted within a grade, it is unlikely the maximum size or number of these characteristics would be present in any board.
Finish Grade
Image courtesy of NELMA.
Grade Description
Finish grade material is a fine appearance, knotty grade calling for sound, tight knots that can be finished to take advantage of the natural characteristics of the piece or to give a fine smooth painted surface. The reverse face of Finish shall permit sound characteristics typical of Standard grade material.
This grade allows small, sound and tight knots ranging from 1 1⁄4" red knots and 5⁄8" black knots on a 4" board to 2 1⁄2" red knots and 7⁄8" black knots on a 12" or wider board. Knot holes in the face are not allowed. Checks will be no longer than 4". Pockets are very small and well scattered. Shake is light. A split will not exceed 1⁄2 the width. Pitch, when present, is evident but limited in its impact on the appearance of the piece. Medium stain (blue or coffee) cannot exceed 1⁄2 the face surface area. Wane is limited to the back face on one edge only. Skip (back face or one edge) is limited to 10% of the pieces.