In a move designed to help consumers "more clearly understand what the floor they are purchasing will look like," The National Wood Flooring Association has developed five "appearance standards:" Clear, Consistent, Natural, Standard and Rustic.

The standards were adopted by an Appearance Standards Task Force established by NWFA. It was charged with developing "a consumer-focused set of appearance standards that are understandable and portray the finished appearance of the floor." Each of the standards reflect specific attributes.

Within these categories, the task force will determine equivalent industry manufacturing grades from several prominent grading organizations, including NOFMA, MFMA and CLA.