Beard Hardwoods Thrives with NHLA Grading Rules 

The hardwood industry is continuously evolving, requiring businesses to adapt to technological advancements and industry standards. For Beard Hardwoods, Inc., a third-generation company led by John Beard, CEO and Owner, a deep understanding of NHLA grading rules has been essential to maintaining success and credibility in the industry. 

With a history spanning over 90 years, Beard Hardwoods has established itself as a trusted supplier of high-quality Appalachian hardwoods. Specializing in Tulip Poplar, the company also offers a variety of premium hardwoods, including Ash, Red Oak, White Oak, and Walnut. Operating from its headquarters in Greensboro, NC, Beard Hardwoods continues to uphold its commitment to excellence by adhering to industry standards and ensuring consistency in its products. 

A key element of this consistency is the company’s deep understanding of NHLA grading rules, which are crucial in maintaining quality and building customer trust.  

The Role of NHLA Grading Rules in Lumber Sales 

For Beard Hardwoods, NHLA grading rules provide the foundation for maintaining industry standards and customer confidence. These guidelines are a universal language for assessing lumber quality, helping businesses deliver consistent and reliable products to their customers. 

“When I first started out with the company, I was able to start grading lumber at sawmills and kind of worked my way up from there,” Beard explains. “The credibility part really helped me as far as the grading.” 

A thorough understanding of NHLA grading rules enables businesses to provide accurate specifications and meet diverse customer needs. The ability to tailor offerings to specific industry requirements is a key factor in long-term success.

“We have a lot of people that always ask about the ability to sell in one spec,” Beard says. “Part of the success has been that we concentrate on it, so we can offer a lot of different specs, different lengths, and tailor orders to customer needs.” 

Understanding NHLA Grading Rules 

• What are lumber grades? Lumber grades define hardwood quality, defects, and usability, allowing buyers and sellers to make informed decisions. 

• What is the highest NHLA grade of hardwoods? The highest NHLA grade is FAS (First and Seconds), which offers minimal defects and superior quality, making it ideal for high-end furniture, millwork, and cabinetry. 

• Where can I find the NHLA grading rules online? The NHLA Grading Rules PDF is available for free download, and physical copies can be purchased—all through the NHLA Online Store. 

Beard acknowledges that while NHLA grading rules were originally developed to standardize lumber for furniture and manufacturing, the industry has evolved. “Now, the industry has evolved, and the uses have evolved, so the associations have had to change, too.” 

Adapting to these industry shifts, Beard Hardwoods has carved out a niche by specializing in premium hardwood lumber, particularly Poplar. Unlike many competitors, Beard Hardwoods specializes in Poplar lumber, offering a range of custom lengths and specifications that cater to industries such as moulding and millwork, furniture manufacturing, cabinet making, and flooring production. 

“There are a lot of companies that don’t want to buy just one length or spec—they want many, so the product is consistent. That’s one thing we always pride ourselves on,” Beard states. 

By maintaining a specialized focus, Beard Hardwoods has positioned itself as a trusted supplier for businesses seeking high-quality, uniform hardwood products. 

The NHLA Inspector Training School: A Stepping Stone for Industry Professionals 

Beard Hardwoods’ long-standing relationship with NHLA extends beyond membership. John Beard is a graduate of NHLA’s Inspector Training School (ITS), Class 100, an experience that significantly shaped his career. 

“I went to NHLA Grading School in 1989. It was a great place to start, learning the rules,” Beard shares. “Being the son of the owner, it gave me a little more credibility to have that certificate and knowledge.” 

While many assume ITS graduates exclusively become lumber graders, Beard emphasizes that the training serves as a gateway to leadership positions in the industry. 

The Future of Hardwood Grading: Adapting to Technology 

As artificial intelligence and automation continue to shape the hardwood industry, the role of NHLA grading rules remains critical in ensuring quality standards are upheld. 

“We’ve all had to adapt over the years,” Beard explains. “The grading rules were made for cutting up lumber in small pieces, but now the industry has changed. The association has to change, too.” 

NHLA is actively working to rebrand its Inspector Training School, reinforcing its commitment to training the next generation of hardwood professionals while incorporating modern advancements in grading technology. 

A Tradition of Quality and Hard Work 

For Beard Hardwoods, Inc., success results from dedication, specialization, and industry leadership. Whether refining grading techniques, adjusting to market changes, or integrating technology, John Beard and his team remain committed to delivering premium Poplar lumber while upholding NHLA standards. 

“We’re just like any other hardworking lumber company—swinging hard every day,” Beard remarks. “And we’ll keep doing that, no matter what comes our way.”

For more information about Beard Hardwoods, Inc., visit their website at BeardHardwoods.com. 


Explore the NHLA Grading Rules history and more.

Download a copy of the 2023 NHLA Rules for the Measurement & Inspection of Hardwood & Cypress in English, Vietnamese, Spanish, French and Bahasa in the NHLA Online Store.

Learn more information about the NHLA Inspector Training School.