Timber veneers are used in a variety of ways. The grade specified depends on the intended use and the decorative effect desired. Timber veneers are further processed to make decorative panels that can change the nature of the veneer, so grade requirements can be subjective.
Veneers for special applications such as partitioning and desktops are generally higher than standard panel grades. This needs to be clarified with the supplier and are generally charged at a premium.
Not all face grade applications require the same quality of veneer as they are often selected through consultation between you and the supplier.
In line with AS/NZS 1859: Reconstituted Wood-based Panels Part 3: Decorative Overlaid Wood Panels, the industry has adopted the following terminology. While each panel producer may use different terms, or combinations thereof, each producer will recognise any of the below terms so that you can specify veneered board with confidence.
G2S – Good Two Sides (also called F2S - Face Two Sides)
Where both sides of the panel are highly visible and face quality of the same veneer is required on both sides.
G1S / DGB – Good One Side / Downgraded Back (also called SSB - Same Species Back)
Where both sides of the panel are visible and the same species is required on both sides of the panel, but the quality of the back does not need to be as high as on the face.
BAMO – Back at Manufacturers Option
Where the veneer species and quality of the back are nominated by the manufacturer, primarily to ensure a balanced panel.
CNB – Customer Nominated Back
Where the veneer species and quality of the back are nominated by the customer.