A Guide To Grades: Understanding The Difference

Understanding Wood Grades: A Simple Guide To Choosing The Right Look

When it comes to wood, not all boards are created equal — and that’s exactly the point. Whether you're building a deck, installing siding, or finishing an interior space, wood grading helps you understand the appearance, character, and performance you can expect from each board. But grading isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each species of wood has its own unique characteristics — knots, grain patterns, and color variations. To help you navigate it all, here’s a breakdown of the most common grades, what they mean, and what we offer at Muskoka Timber Mills. 

 

Wood grades typically differ amongst species. Grading used in Western species (Western Red Cedar & Douglas Fir) differs from the grading terminology used for Eastern species (Eastern White Pine). In western species, we use "STK, Vertical Grain and Mixed Grain". In Eastern, we use "#1, #2, and Select". See below for the details!

 

Scroll to the bottom to view our Grade Guide PDF. 

EASTERN SPECIES

#1 Grade

This grade allows for tight, sound knots and has minimal defects. It's often used where you still want a natural, rustic look, but with a bit more consistency and performance. It's great for visible surfaces that need to stand up to wear and tear.

 

  • Some knots allowed, but they’re solid and well-formed
  • Minor imperfections that don’t affect structural integrity
  • Good balance of character and performance

 #2 Contractor Grade

Below #1 — full of charm and personality. Has larger and more frequent knots. Ideal for projects where you want that rugged, authentic, natural look. Often used in cabins, barns, or accent walls. (Muskoka Timber Mills offers a #1,2 Contractor Mix - we like to give our clients a mix of #1 and #2 to give you the best bang for your buck!)

 

  • Lots of knots and visual variation
  • Great value for rustic aesthetics
  • May contain larger knots and some surface defects

Select Grade

Select is a premium grade with minimal knots and a more refined look. It offers a consistent grain and colour tone, and is ideal for interiors, trim, furniture, or high-end projects where appearance is key.

 

  • Mostly clear with occasional small knots
  • Uniform colour and texture
  • Excellent for modern or clean-lined designs

WESTERN SPECIES 

STK Grade

STK stands for Select Tight Knot, and it’s a sweet spot between clear and knotty. You get character without chaos — small, sound knots that won’t pop out.

 

  • Knots are small, tight, and sound
  • Consistent in appearance
  • Great for both interior and exterior use where a bit of natural character is desired

C+BTR Mixed Grain

“C and Better” means it includes C grade boards and anything better (like B or A). Mixed grain refers to the fact that the grain pattern varies between vertical grain and flat grain within the same board. This grade has a beautiful natural look with minimal defects.

 

  • Minimal knots and defects
  • Varied grain for a natural, organic look
  • A balance between beauty and value

C+BTR Vertical Grain

This is a step up in both aesthetics and performance. “Vertical grain” means the grain runs straight and vertically along the board — which results in excellent dimensional stability and a sleek, clean-lined look.

 

  • Straight, tight grain pattern
  • More stable and resistant to warping
  • Premium look with subtle elegance — ideal for interior walls, ceilings, and fine siding applications

Species Grading

It’s important to remember: not all grades apply to all species.

Each wood species is unique — a knot in Eastern White Cedar is very different from a knot in Douglas Fir. Grading systems vary depending on the natural characteristics of the species and how the lumber is used. So while two boards might both be marked “#2”, they can look and perform very differently depending on what species they come from.

 

Now, there is more species and grades in the lumber world that what was mentioned above. The grades mentioned above are the most common species we work with and deal with on a daily basis. Hardwoods bring in a whole new set of grading... and that’s why our team is here — to help you choose the right grade for your project, your taste, and your budget! Give us a call to find out more!

What Does Muskoka Timber Mills Use?

Let's dive into our Species Grading Guide to help you understand how we grade our species, what it looks like compared to one another, and which to choose for your next project to match your desired look.