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.
Standard Grade
Image courtesy of NELMA.
Grade Description
Standard grade is highly serviceable and used in a wide variety of applications that take advantage of the full range of Eastern White Pine characteristics.
This grade allows for knots of any quality, in sizes ranging from 2 3⁄8" red knots and 1 3⁄4" black knots in a 4" board, to 6" red knots and 4" black knots in a 12" board. Knot holes must be no larger than 1⁄4 the width to a maximum of 2". Holes smaller than the maximum size are allowed, however, within any 8 linear feet the total combined size of the smaller holes must not exceed the maximum size hole allowed. Checks may be 1⁄4 the length of the board (not to exceed 3'). Shake can be through, up to 1⁄3 the length of the board. Pockets are large. Splits can be twice the width of the board but cannot exceed 1⁄6 the length. Edge breaks are allowed. Pitch can be heavy. Allowed stain is heavy. Wane is limited to the back face. Skip is on the reverse face and can be on one edge and is limited to 20% of the pieces. Seams are up to 1⁄6 the length of the board. Unsound wood is combined from both faces; If advanced decay is at the maximum allowed of 10% (no more than 1% on the best face) no other decay is allowed on the piece. The grade also permits worm holes.