Is all CVG Douglas fir flooring Equal? Things to consider when purchasing Clear Vertical Grain Doug fir flooring.

Last post we discussed some of the considerations that go into determining what the C&Btr Clear Vertical Grain Douglas fir flooring grade entails.  Does that mean one Clear Vertical Grain Douglas fir flooring from one mill is the same as from another?  Yes and No.  

The “Yes” is in the sense that it should clearly be Vertical Grain Douglas fir and that it meets the C&Btr Clear grade requirements as outlined by the West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau (WCLIB).

However that’s where the similarities can end.  One difference that is not regulated by grade rules when it comes to CVG Douglas fir flooring is the density of the grain.  The density of the grain can be referenced as ring count or “rings per inch” in the case of VG Doug fir flooring, paneling or porch decking. 

 At Altruwood we often reference “loose grain” and “tight grain”.  These terms are a bit subjective but in general when we refer to loose grain we’re typically talking about 3-4 rings per inch and when referencing “tight grain” we’re referring to approx 8 rings per inch and greater.  And when we’re talking about rings per inch I’m referring to the vertical summer and winter growth rings or lighter and darker colored growth rings as one.  

When you’re shopping for Clear Vertical Grain Douglas fir flooring, paneling, porch decking or lumber you need to ask yourself if a tighter or looser grain is important to you.  If so, you need to ask your potential suppliers if their CVG Doug fir is a looser or tighter grain.  Quite often what is available tends to be the looser grain material and less so the more prized “tighter grain” CVG Douglas fir.