FAQs | Cooperative Extension Service

Frequently Asked Questions about the �ֻ�ֱ�� Lumber Grading Program

Why is this program needed?

The International Residential Code (IRC) stipulates that lumber bearing a grade stamp (or lumber inspected by an authorized official) is required in specified structural applications. Most sawmill businesses in �ֻ�ֱ�� don't operate at an economy of scale which justifies the cost of membership with an accredited lumber grading agency, preventing the use of most locally produced lumber in homebuilding where the IRC is implemented. The �ֻ�ֱ�� Lumber Grading Program's purpose is to allow in limited circumstances the use of structural lumber that is not grade-stamped in residential home construction.

What is dimension lumber?

Dimension lumber is an industry product category of sawn lumber within a specific size range and application: nominal 2" - 4" thickness, by 2" and greater width, and which is used for framing. It's often called "framing lumber."

Does this apply to other wood products like timbers, beams, or logs used in other construction formats such as timberframes, post-and-beam, and log homes?

No. The program applies to dimension lumber for light-frame wood home construction.

What species does this apply to?

In 2005, the American Lumber Standard Committee published design values for 3 species groups, comprising a total of 5 �ֻ�ֱ�� softwood tree species. These 5 species underwent a mechanical properties testing program conducted by the Ketchikan Wood Technology center in conjunction with the Western Wood Products Association.

The �ֻ�ֱ�� lumber grading system applies exclusively to these 5 species for which we have documented strength property data, which allows for integration into building code requirements.. These species are: white spruce, Sitka spruce, western hemlock, mountain hemlock and �ֻ�ֱ�� yellow cedar.

How do I get the certificate?

The certificate is obtained by completing the one-day �ֻ�ֱ�� Lumber Grading Program certification training and passing the proficiency test. The certificate is valid for 5 years and can be renewed by re-taking the training.

Where is the training offered?

The �ֻ�ֱ�� Lumber Grading Program certification training will be provided on at least an annual basis in the following regions: Interior, Southeast, and Southcentral. Additional dates and locations can be accommodated. Fill out the to let us know where you'd like a lumber grading training to be offered

Here's a list of previous training locations.

What is the cost of the training course?

There is no cost to enroll in the course. Registration is required to attend.

Does my local building department approve the use of dimension lumber graded and certified under the �ֻ�ֱ�� Lumber Grading Program?

As a provision of AS 41.17.630, local building code officials retain authority to allow, reject, or require modifications to the use of structural lumber graded under the �ֻ�ֱ�� Lumber Grading Program.

Municipal building departments are encouraged to contact the �ֻ�ֱ�� Lumber Grading Program for detailed information about how the program works and how it compares to the existing grademark standards.

Stack of lumber