Preface
This Specification has been prepared to provide a standardized working basis for specifying and ordering Canadian softwood yard lumber. This Specification is not intended for use as a grading rule. It provides uniformity in such important factors as nomenclature, definitions, abbreviations. grading provisions, and sizes. It also lists the various Association grades which can be used for different end purposes.
The grading of lumber is a difficult and involved matter, with species and size of logs being determining factors. In grading, factors affecting appearance and strength, as well as those determining suitability for specific uses, have all to be considered. In addition, there are economic considerations related to the satisfactory disposal of all the lumber sawn from the log. Grading must also be such as to meet the requirements of the producer, the distributor, and the consumer.
In Canada for many years the preparation and distribution of grading rules for the various timber species have been the responsibility of lumber manufacturing associations. For these reasons, associations' grading rules are widely accepted for marketing of lumber. It will be appreciated, however, that the preparation of grading rules by different associations for different species must inevitably result in many differences which require specialized knowledge to fully understand and appreciate. To assist in the specifying of Canadian lumber and to utilize it to the best advantage, this CSA Specification for Softwood Yard Lumber has been prepared.
The membership of the CSA Committee on Standards for Yard Lumber includes representatives of lumber manufacturers, distributors, large users, and technical organizations selected on a nation-wide basis. The Standard represents more than four years of active work by this Committee, and as is the case in all specifications of this nature, there have been many drafts circulated, many meetings held and the resultant discussion between members with their wide diversity of interests has resulted in many modifications and changes so as to obtain a representative and comprehensive Standard.
This Specification has been prepared by the Committee on Standards for Yard Lumber under the jurisdiction of the Sectional Committee on Timber, and has been formally approved by these Committees and the CSA Technical Council.
Scope
1.1
This Specification applies to Canadian softwood yard lumber manufactured from a log in a sawmill or in a sawmill and planing mill.
1.2
This Specification provides a standardized working basis for buying, selling, and use of softwood yard lumber throughout Canada.
1.3
This Specification is not intended for use as a grading rule for yard lumber.
