kvalitetsvirke

Kvalitetsvirke is a term used in the Nordic timber industry to describe timber that conforms to defined quality criteria for appearance, strength and durability. It covers sawn wood that has been sorted and graded to separate higher-quality material from lower-quality categories. The grading typically assesses straightness, knot pattern, warp, splits, surface defects and moisture content. After felling, logs are sawn into boards or timbers and then dried or seasoned to a target moisture level, ensuring dimensional stability and resistance to decay.

Quality timber is intended for applications where predictable properties are important, including structural components, finishing carpentry, flooring and furniture. The exact grade names and acceptance criteria vary by country and by wood species, and are defined by national or regional standards. In practice, kvalitetsvirke is marketed with an accompanying specification or certification that confirms its grade and moisture content.

Markets and sustainability: The term is linked to professional procurement processes and quality control in the sawmilling industry. Many producers also pursue third-party certification schemes (for example FSC or PEFC) to demonstrate sustainable forestry practices and chain-of-custody for kvalitetsvirke.