Lumber Grades - Prime vs FAS

[George Bokros]

I see some lumber suppliers selling material FAS, which I know is firsts and seconds, other suppliers selling Prime and 1 & @ common. What is the difference between FAS and Prime? I know what 1 & 2 common is/

Thanks

[Ken Fitzgerald]

George,

http://www.prowoodlumber.com/en/projects-and-resources/lumber-grades.aspx

[J.R. Rutter]

Here is a comprehensive guide for hardwood grading (as opposed to dimensional lumber) that includes mention of terms like prime.

http://www.esf.edu/wus/documents/IllustratedGradingGuide.pdf

tl;dr: Prime grade:
This grade has evolved from the NHLA grade of FAS for the export market. It is
square edged and virtually wane free. The minimum clear yield will be select and better with
appearance being a major factor. Minimum size of the boards varies, depending on the species,
region, and supplier.

[George Bokros]

Thanks for the quick responses. What your shared confirms what I was suspecting, Prime is similar to FAS / Select

[Larry Copas]

Their is a difference. Prime does not allow much if any wane while FAS does allow wane. For that reason I would expect it to command a higher price.

I've only heard of prime in the export market but maybe its creeping into the local markets. I think the next grade down from prime is comsel.