How to become a lumber grader?

A lumber grader requires certification from a program recognized by the American Lumber Standards Committee. Qualifications for grading hardwood are not necessary, as hardwood does not need a grade for it to be for sale in stores. However, many mills hire lumber graders to grade hardwood, as a grade can enhance its value.

What is Grade 1 lumber?

#1 GM. This #1 grade lumber is recommended for construction use where high strength, stiffness and appearance are desired. Typical uses may include usage in engineered truss and floor joists that require long-span material.

What are grades of lumber?

Most two inch thick softwood lumber is graded for its strength rather than appearance. The common grades found at your local lumberyard from best to worst are: #1: Construction grade. #2: Standard grade. #3: Utility grade. #4: Economy grade.

How to grade lumber?

Determine the species. Some species must be processed according to special rules.

  • Determine the surface measurement (SM). SM is the width,in inches and fractions,times the standard length in feet with no fractions or rounding,divided by 12 with the answer
  • Determine the poor face,which is the side with the lowest grade.
  • Assume a trial grade for the piece of lumber and then see if all the conditions for that grade are met.
  • Determine if lumber size requirements (length and width) are met for the chosen grade.
  • Determine the number of clear cuttings that are permitted.
  • Determine the cutting yield required by multiplying the surface measurement (SM) by the grade values respectively. The required yield is expressed in cutting units.
  • Locate cuttings to obtain the maximum area; then calculate the cutting area. Make sure the cutting sizes are not below the minimum size for the trial grade.
  • When the piece grade is No. 1 common,check the reverse side to see if the reverse is FAS grade.
  • Check to make sure that the piece qualifies for the anticipated grade in all other respects,which include the amount of wane,the amount of pitch outside the cuttings and

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