Grade isn't about quality — it's about character. Here's what each one means for your floor.
When you start shortlisting timber floors, you'll see words like Universal, Markant and Sauvage. These are grades — and one of the most misunderstood parts of choosing a floor. Grade is not a measure of quality. Every HARO board is made to the same exacting standard. Grade simply describes how much natural character the timber shows.
As oak grows, it develops knots, sapwood, colour variation and grain movement. Grading sorts boards by how much of that natural character is on show — from calm and uniform through to wild and rustic. It's purely an aesthetic choice.
More character grades (Markant, Sauvage) are forgiving — knots and variation hide everyday wear and suit relaxed, rustic and family interiors. Cleaner grades (Universal) give a calm, refined, modern look but show marks a little more readily. Neither is 'better' — it's about the feel you want.
Photos only tell half the story with timber. Order free samples to see how grade reads at full scale across a room, and browse graded options in our engineered timber flooring range.
The honest, side-by-side comparison — stability, cost, lifespan and which suits Australian homes.
Light, natural, grey or dramatic dark — how to pick a floor tone that works with your light, space and style.
What actually drives the price of a timber floor — and how to get an accurate quote for your project.
Take the two-minute quiz, request free samples, or request free samples to see our floors at home.
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