Select Structural (Grade)
The highest visual stress grade for dimension lumber. Permits only small, tight knots and minimal wane. Used where maximum strength and appearance matter.
In Detail
Select Structural is the top visual-grade classification for structural lumber under grading rules by SPIB, WCLIB, and WWPA. It allows the highest design values (Fb, Ft, Fc, E) of any visual grade. It's specified when the member is at or near its span limit, or when exposed framing requires both strength and appearance. For most residential construction, No.2 grade is sufficient and significantly less expensive.