About AB Grade
AB Grade is one of Timbo's five appearance grades for timber flooring. It is chosen for modern homes that want a clean look with a little more warmth and natural movement than A-Prime.
Characteristics
- Minimal knots or imperfections
- Uniform colour and grain for a clean look
- Suits minimalist, Scandinavian, transitional and traditional styles
- Durable premium hardwood
How AB compares
| Grade | Appearance |
|---|---|
| A-Prime | Cleanest – few if any knots, uniform colour |
| AB | Minimal knots, consistent colour |
| ABC | Mix of A, B and C – clear sections to visible knots |
| ABCD – Natural / Rustic | Pronounced colour variation, knots and natural marks |
| CD – Rustic / Character | Most character – knots, mineral streaks, strong variation |
See all wood flooring grades or read oak flooring grades explained.
Frequently asked questions
What does AB Grade look like?
Minimal knots and consistent colour – clean and contemporary with a touch more natural variation than A-Prime. Because timber is natural, every batch varies slightly – ask for a free sample.
Is a lower grade weaker than A-Prime?
No. Grades describe appearance – knots, colour variation and character – not strength. See oak flooring grades explained.
Which grade suits herringbone or chevron?
Cleaner grades such as A-Prime and AB let the pattern itself stand out, which is why they're popular for parquet. More rustic grades give a characterful, aged parquet look.




