When wood is lumbered, it is categorised based on four levels of aesthetics, commonly referred to as ‘grades’. Contrary to what some may think, ‘grade’ does not denote quality; it pertains solely to the wood’s visual characteristics. The four grades applicable to wood flooring are Prime, Select, Natural, and the focus of this article: Rustic. There are several reasons why rustic grade remains incredibly popular for both solid and engineered wood flooring. Its visual allure, affordability, unique character, eco-friendliness, and resale value are just a few factors that make rustic grade particularly special.
What Is Rustic Grade Wood Flooring?
Rustic grade wood flooring is sourced from the outer rings of the tree trunk, resulting in a higher incidence of knots, streaks, sapwood, varied grain patterns, and colour variations. As you may notice, the closer the wood is to the centre of the trunk, the higher its grade. At the opposite end of the spectrum is Prime grade, which, due to its proximity to the trunk’s centre, offers a more uniform appearance, often devoid of knots and sapwood and featuring minimal colour variations between planks.
It’s important to clarify that ‘grade’ is not an indicator of quality. Whether Prime, Select, Natural, or Rustic, all grades share the same quality when comparing like-for-like species of hardwood.
What Are the Benefits of Rustic Grade Wood Flooring?
Rustic grade wood flooring has a dedicated following. For many, wood flooring doesn’t truly encapsulate nature unless it features the dramatic knots, sapwood, and colour variations that are characteristic of rustic grade. This offers a truly unique and personalised appearance, as no two rustic wood floors will be the same. The rustic aesthetic imbues rooms with warmth and character, and the presence of knots, colour variations, and other imperfections enhances its appeal. Additionally, rustic grade wood flooring is typically less expensive than higher grades, making it a cost-effective choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Moreover, rustic grade wood boasts strong eco-friendly credentials. Traditional wood processing often uses only the prime sections of a log for higher grades of flooring, resulting in significant waste. The remaining wood—usually featuring knots, streaks, or varied grain patterns—is often discarded or used for less conspicuous purposes. Rustic grade, however, makes full use of the log, incorporating these ‘imperfect’ elements. This efficient utilisation reduces waste and maximises the yield from each harvested tree.
How Does Rustic Grade Compare To Prime, Select and Natural?
| Feature | Rustic Grade | Natural Grade | Select Grade | Prime Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visual Appearance | Varied, lots of character | Moderate character | Uniform with some variations | Highly uniform |
| Knots and Imperfections | High | Moderate | Few | Minimal or None |
| Colour Variations | High | Moderate | Low | Very Low |
| Grain Patterns | Varied | Varied to moderate | Moderate to uniform | Uniform |
| Sapwood Content | High | Moderate | Low | Minimal or None |
| Cost | Usually lower | Moderate | Moderate to high | Usually highest |
| Eco-Friendliness | High (utilises entire log) | Moderate (less waste) | Low (selective use of log) | Low (very selective) |
| Resale Value | Moderate | Moderate to high | High | Highest |
| Ease of Maintenance | Easier (imperfections mask wear) | Moderate | Moderate | Requires more care |
| Recommended For | Traditional, eclectic homes | Most home styles | Modern, minimalist homes | Luxury properties |
Should You Opt For Rustic Grade Wood Flooring?
Often referred to as ‘character grade,’ rustic grade wood flooring has gained popularity for its authentic, natural appearance and its variety of unique features. If you’re searching for a truly dramatic wood flooring option, look no further than rustic grade. Coupled with its ability to age gracefully, it’s easy to see why rustic grade wood flooring is such a popular choice.
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FAQ
What is meant by ‘grade’ in wood flooring?
The term ‘grade’ in wood flooring refers to the aesthetic characteristics of the wood, not its quality. There are four main grades—Prime, Select, Natural, and Rustic—which differ mainly in visual aspects such as knots, colour variations, and grain patterns.
What sets Rustic grade wood flooring apart?
Rustic grade wood flooring is unique in its visual complexity, featuring a rich assortment of knots, streaks, varied grain patterns, and colour differences. It comes from the tree’s outer rings, making each plank distinct. This grade is particularly popular for those who want flooring with character and natural beauty.
How does Rustic grade wood flooring compare to other grades in terms of cost?
Rustic grade tends to be more affordable compared to higher grades like Prime and Select. Its cost-effectiveness makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious homeowners looking for wood flooring with a rich, natural appearance.
Is Rustic grade wood flooring eco-friendly?
Yes, Rustic grade is often more eco-friendly than other grades. Unlike traditional wood processing methods that use only prime sections of the log, Rustic grade utilises more parts of the log, including those with imperfections like knots and streaks. This reduces waste and makes the most of each harvested tree.
Why should one consider Rustic grade wood flooring?
Often known as ‘character grade,’ Rustic grade wood flooring is sought-after for its authentic, natural aesthetic. Its unique features, affordability, and eco-friendly aspects make it an excellent choice for those seeking a floor that adds character to their living space and ages well over time.