Hardwood grading is based on the visual appearance of the boards. 'Clear' or 'Select' grades are manufactured to be uniform and free of character marks, which requires high-quality timber and selective sorting during milling. 'Rustic,' 'Common,' or 'Character' grades include more natural variations and imperfections, which increases the usable yield from each log. Because these grades make use of more of the tree, they are typically less expensive to produce and purchase than pristine, clear-grade materials.
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What is the price difference between rustic and clear grades?
Clear grade hardwood is the most expensive, as it features minimal knots and color variations. Rustic grade is more affordable, as it celebrates natural characteristics like knots, streaks, and mineral deposits, offering a distinctive look at a lower production cost.