Wood Floor Grades and Cuts: A Simple Guide

Hardwood Flooring Grades & Cuts Explained (Cleveland Homeowner’s Guide)

Choosing the right hardwood flooring can feel overwhelming. Between wood grades and cutting styles, there’s a lot to consider—but don’t worry, we’re going to break it down into simple terms so you can confidently choose what’s best for your home and budget.

If you're considering hardwood flooring in Cleveland, Ohio, this guide will help you make a smart, long-term decision.

What Are Hardwood Flooring Grades?

Think of wood grades like grades in school—the higher the grade, the more “perfect” the wood appears.

Clear / Select Grade Hardwood Flooring

This is the top-tier option.

• Very few knots or color variations

• Clean, uniform appearance

• Ideal for modern or formal homes

In the Cleveland market, this is often chosen for high-end renovations or newer builds where a sleek look is the goal.

Keep in mind: You’ll pay a premium—often 25–40% more than lower grades.

Select & Better Grade Hardwood

A great middle-ground option.

• Slight color variation

• Very similar to clear grade

• Some natural grain patterns

• Still maintains a refined look

Many Cleveland homeowners choose this because it offers the best balance of appearance and cost.

#1 Common Grade Hardwood Flooring

This is where the wood starts to show its true character.

• More color variation

• Small (dime sized) knots and mineral streaks (darker tones)

• Natural, lived-in feel

This is one of the most popular options for Cleveland homes, especially older homes where a perfect floor can actually look out of place.

Character Grade Hardwood Flooring

Full of personality and natural detail.

• Knots (quarter sized), color shifts, and natural markings

• Rustic, farmhouse-style appearance

• Same durability as other grades

Perfect for homeowners who want a bold, natural look with character.

How Hardwood Flooring Is Cut (Why It Matters)

The way the wood is cut from the log plays a big role in how your floors look—and perform over time.

Plain Sawn (Flat Sawn) Hardwood

The most common and budget-friendly option.

• Classic “cathedral” grain patterns

• Works well in traditional homes

• Allows for wider planks

This is what most people picture when they think of classic hardwood floors.

Quarter Sawn Hardwood Flooring

A premium option with added stability.

• Straight grain patterns

• Beautiful “ray fleck” in oak. Looks like tiger stripes.

• More resistant to expansion and contraction

This can be especially beneficial in Cleveland’s climate, where humidity swings between seasons.

Rift Sawn Hardwood Flooring

The most consistent and modern look.

• Clean, linear, tight grain

• Minimal variation

• Most expensive cutting method

Ideal for modern, high-end interiors.

How to Choose the Right Hardwood Flooring in Cleveland

Your Lifestyle

• Kids or pets? → Go with #1 Common or Character Grade (hides wear better)

• Want a clean, modern look? → Choose Clear or Select Grade

Your Budget

• Clear grade = premium pricing

• #1 Common = best value

• Plain sawn = most affordable cut

• Rift/Quarter sawn = higher cost

Your Home (Especially in Cleveland)

• Older homes → More character grades blend better

• Kitchens & moisture-prone areas → Quarter sawn can offer more stability

• Open floor plans → Consistency (rift/clear) may be worth it

Maintenance Tip Most Homeowners Don’t Think About

Floors with more natural variation (like #1 Common or Character Grade) are:

• Easier to maintain

• Better at hiding scratches, dents, and wear

• More forgiving long-term

Think of it like:

• A leather jacket (gets better with age)

• A white dress shirt (shows everything)

The Bottom Line

Whether you choose the clean, uniform look of Clear Grade or the natural charm of #1 Common, the best hardwood floor is the one that fits:

• Your lifestyle

• Your home

• Your budget

If you're planning hardwood flooring installation or refinishing in Cleveland, Ohio, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s choosing a floor you’ll love living on every day.