The NELMA grading rules were set in place to create product uniformity among mills that were producing Eastern White Pine.

HDK uses these grades/standards as a guide line however we strive to exceed the specifications to produce only the finest lumber products available. For more information, feel free to contact NELMA at http://www.nelma.org

HDK Grades:
D- Select and Better (D&BTR): These are the two highest NELMA grades. This grade has an abundance of clear wood. This grade is limited to only one knot, which must be sound & tight, 1/2" diameter or less per surface foot. Only a 5% defect margin is allowed, with a cross-cut to eliminate defects is allowed in 10' and higher lengths.

Premium: This is an appearance grade and is mainly red-knotted. Red-Knots can be unlimited ranging from 2" to 3 3/4" in diameter. Black knots are allowed in very limited quantities and can only be 3/4" to 1 1/2" in diameter. The size and number of knots will depend on the actual width of the board. Note: Premium does not always permit fewer knots, but limits the amount of large knots. Premium grade also has a Finish grade to it.

Standard: This grade has a more rustic appearance. The grade allows a combination of both Red and Black knots. Red-knots can be unlimited 2/3 the width, maximum of 6" in diameter. Black-knots can only be 1/2 the width with a maximum of 4" in diameter. We do not allow knot holes in our Standard grade.

Industrial: This is the lowest common board grade. This can contain large knots, both Red and Black and can be sound and unsound. It can contain large defects in any combination as long as the piece is usable full-length.