Ansi Wdma - Is 1a 2013 Flush

I.S.
1A - 13
ANSI/WDMA I.S. 1A – 13
Approved as an American National
Standard October 29, 2013
Industry Standard for
Interior Architectural
Wood Flush Doors
WDMA Environmental Stewardship Committee
Statement of Beliefs
 The membership of the Window & Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA) supports the intent of environmental
stewardship aimed at protecting the earth’s resources including sound environmental practices to protect our air,
water, land and the human, animal and plant life of our planet.
 WDMA encourages our members to make the most efficient use of materials and resources, to recycle or reuse
materials where economically feasible, and to conduct business in a manner that supports environmental
stewardship.
 WDMA supports and defines sustainable forest management as the stewardship of forests that promotes the
health, productivity and potential to fulfill relevant ecological, economic and social functions at the local, national
and global levels, both today and for future generations. We support programs that promote the use of best forestry
management practices and sustainable forestry activity.
 We encourage and support our members to improve their practice of environmental stewardship and will work to
assist them and the broader community in the implementation of sound environmental practices.
Approved by the WDMA Board of Directors

May 18, 2006
2
ANSI/WDMA I.S.1A – 13
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GREEN PRODUCTS STATEMENT OF BELIEFS 2 TESTS

T-1 Show Through or Telegraph 29
FOREWORD T-2 Flatness or Warp 29
WDMA Door Division 4 T-3 Squareness 29
Architectural Wood Flush Doors 4 T-4 Sanding 30
Introduction 4 T-5 Joint Gaps 30
Performance 4
Aesthetics 4 CONSTRUCTION
Purpose 4 General 31
C-1 Face Requirements 31
GUIDE SPECIFICATION CHECKLIST 5 C-2 Crossbanding Requirements 31
C-3 Core Requirements 31
GLOSSARY 6 C-4 Edge Requirements 32
C-5 Vertical and Horizontal Edge/Core Interface 32
AESTHETICS C-6 Adhesives 32
A-1 Aesthetic Grades for Architectural Wood Flush Doors 12 C-7 Construction Details 33
A-2 Face Selection 12 C-8 Fire Doors 36
A-3 Appearance of Individual Veneer Leaves 13 C-9 Special Function Doors 37
A-4 Matching Between Individual Veneer Leaves 14 C-10 Environmental Doors 37
A-5 Assembly of Spliced Veneer Leaves on Door Face 15 C-11 Face, Edge, Moulding and Transom Matching Standards 38
A-6 Appearance of Doors in Pairs or Sets 16 C-12 Door Construction Details 39
A-7 Appearance of Doors with Transoms 17
A-8 Flush Door Face Veneer Characteristics 17 FINISHING
A-9 Fabrication 26 General 44
F-1 Factory Finishing 44
PERFORMANCE F-2 Finish Selection 44
P-1 Performance Standards for Architectural Wood Flush Doors 27 F-3 Finish System Descriptions 45
P-2 Example Duty Level Applications 27 F-4 Sample Submission 46
P-3 Dimensional Information 28 F-5 Job Site Finishing 46
P-4 Flame Spread Smoke Development 28 F-6 Visual Inspection Standards 46
F-7 Standard Wood Door Finishing System Ratings 47
JOB SITE INFORMATION

How to Store, Handle, Finish, Install and Maintain Wood Doors 48
REFERENCE STANDARDS AND ORGANIZATIONS 50
Published By:
Window and Door Manufacturers Association
330 N. Wabash Avenue, Suite 2000, Chicago, IL
2025 M Street NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20036 ® Copyright August 2013
No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, in an electronic retrieval system or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the
publisher.
3
FOREWORD
WDMA Door Division
The architectural wood flush door manufacturer and material supplier members of the WDMA Door Division combine to promote the use of
architectural wood and laminate doors, to maintain quality standards and to provide other informational services.
Acceptance, specification and other use of this standard is voluntary, as the WDMA does not in any way control or regulate the method or manner of
manufacture or production of industry products.
Because of constant technological changes and product improvements in component parts used by wood door manufacturers, industry standards
referenced in this document may become outdated. This standard is under constant review so that situations such as these can be evaluated,
recognized, and incorporated as quickly as possible. It is the intent of this standard to define wood doors consistent with industry practices and
technical advances. This version (2013) takes precedence over previous versions
Architectural Wood Flush Doors
An architectural wood flush door is the pinnacle of wood door manufacturing. Architectural wood flush doors are part of the building’s permanent
furniture. The requirements for their manufacture are, therefore, indicative of their place as the building’s permanent, visible, operable equipment.
Introduction
ANSI/WDMA I.S.1A is a general industry standard that establishes expectations for the performance and aesthetic attributes of architectural wood
flush doors. These combined characteristics are used in producing a wood flush door for a particular opening. Function and performance are
primarily controlled by the wood door construction. Aesthetics are primarily controlled by symmetry, species, veneer cut, matching of veneers and
finish selected, or by the laminate selected.
Performance
WDMA standards require the designation of a performance duty level in addition to an aesthetic grade. Performance duty levels are based on the
amount and severity of use. There are three levels of duty based on performance values of eight different attributes as defined in the Section P. It is
the responsibility of the specifier to select the duty level for each application. Duty levels include:
Typically involves doors where use is considered heavy and frequent, and requires the highest minimum performance
Extra Heavy Duty
standards.
Typically involves doors where usage is moderate, and requires intermediate minimum performance standards.
Heavy Duty
Typically involves doors where frequency of use is low, and requires the lowest minimum performance standards.
Standard Duty
Note: If the performance duty level is not specified, Heavy Duty is the default.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics are influenced by several factors, as indicated in Section A. However, objective attributes are defined through the use of two grading
levels. It is the responsibility of the specifier to select the best aesthetic grade for each application.
Uses AA grade faces (A grade faces for Western Red Alder, White Pine, Douglas Fir and Redwood) that are assembled
Premium using book and center balance match; other matching options are available but must be specified. Typically specified for
use in those areas of a project where the very highest level of quality is required.
Uses A grade faces that are assembled using book and running match; other face options are available but must be
Custom
specified. Typically specified for most high-quality, architectural woodwork.
Note: If the aesthetic grade is not specified, Custom grade is the default.
Purpose
The purpose of this publication is to:
 Define the aesthetic grades and performance duty levels of architectural wood flush doors available through this standard.
 Provide general information, standards, and tests that will ensure all products complying with this standard can be evaluated on an equal basis.
 Provide a logical, simple system of references, keyed to guide specifications, which will enable the architect to specify wood flush doors
thoroughly, precisely, and accurately.
 Provide information necessary for the specifier to identify products and by which products are to be evaluated.
 This Standard applies to architectural wood flush doors intended for interior application. Doors specified to meet this standard are not
recommended for exterior use.
4
GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS CHECKLIST
The following is a listing of the basic information required in a specification for architectural flush wood doors. The WDMA recommends that these
pieces of information appear in any specification for those products. Providing this minimal amount of information will assure clear communication
regarding the construction of the doors specified.
Wood Face Requirements: Door Construction:

Veneer Grade (Section A-2) Aesthetic Grade (Section A-1)
 AA (Default Premium)  Premium
(A veneer grade for Western Red Alder,  Custom
White Pine, Douglas Fir and Redwood) Performance Duty Level (Section P-1)
 A (Default Custom)  Extra Heavy Duty
Veneer Cut (Section A-3)  Heavy Duty
 Plain Sliced  Standard Duty
 Rotary Core Type (Section C-3)
 Quarter Cut  Particleboard (PC)
 Rift Cut (Oak only)  Staved Lumber Core (SLC)
Veneer Species (Section A-8)  Structural Composite Lumber (SCLC)
 As Specified  Medium Density Fiberboard (MDFC)
Veneer Leaf Match (Section A-4)  Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVLC)
 Book (Default)  Fire Resistant Composite (FD)
 Slip  Hollow core
Veneer Face Match (Section A-5) Hardware Blocking (See Section C-7)
 Running (Default Custom)  Hardware Reinforcement Blocking
 Balance Core/Edge Interface (Section C-5)
 Center Balance (Default Premium)  Bonded
 Other _________________  Non-Bonded
Appearance of Pairs, Sets and Transoms (Sections A-6 and A-7) Fire Door Test Method (Section C-8)
 Matched  UL 10B Neutral Pressure
 Not Matched  UL 10C Positive Pressure
HPDL Face Requirements:  Category A
 Manufacturer  Category B
 Thickness Special Function Doors: (Section C-9)
Pattern/Color/Finish  Sound Resistant (STC)
LPDL Face Requirements:  Lead Lined (X-Ray)
 Manufacturer  Bullet Resistant
 Pattern/Color Environmental Doors (Section C-10)
Detailed Requirements: Environmental Rating Program
 Wood Beaded Lites  LEED®
 Metal Vision Panels  Green Globes
Finish Requirements: (Section F-1)  Other ____
Finish Application  Recycled Content____
 Factory Clear  Regional Material____
 Factory Stain  Rapidly Renewable Materials
 Factory Opaque  Certified Wood
 Other _____________  Low-Emitting Materials
 Other_________
5
GLOSSARY
Astragal A moulding or trim attached to the meeting edges of adjacent door leaves in order to prevent swing through and to
conceal the gap. Also may be used for sound control, bullet resistance and x-ray shielding.
Balanced Match Two or more veneer components or leaves of equal size (prior to edge trimming) to make up a single face.
Barber Pole An effect in book matching of veneers. Because the “tight” and “loose” sides alternate in adjacent veneer leaves,
they may accept stain or reflect light differently, resulting in a noticeable but acceptable color variation. Barber Pole
is not considered a manufacturing defect.
Bark Pocket Comparatively small area of bark around which normal wood has grown.
Bevel A machine angle other than a right angle, i.e., a 3 degree bevel that is equivalent to a 1/8 inch drop in a 2 inch span
(1 mm in 16mm).
Beveled Edge An edge of the door which forms an angle of less than 90 degrees with the face of the door, such as a 3 degree
beveled edge.
Bird Peck A mark or wound in a tree or piece of wood caused by birds pecking on the growing tree in search of insects.
Blended Repair Tapering A repair referring to end splits, repaired with wood or filler similar in color to blend well with adjacent wood.
Blending Color change that is detectable at a distance of 6 ft. to 8 ft. (1.8 m to 2.4 m) but which does not detract from the
overall appearance of the door.
Blister Spot or area where veneer does not adhere.
Blocking A material used to replace core material in specific locations to provide improved screw holding for the attachment
of hardware. Blocking is only required where the screw holding power of the core is less than required by the
applicable performance duty level.
Bonded Core Stiles and rails (edge bands) are securely glued to the core prior to application of crossbanding, three ply skins,
veneers or laminate.
Book Match Adjacent leaves of veneer from a flitch or log are opened like a book and spliced to make up the face with matching
occurring at the spliced joints. The fibers of the wood, slanting in opposite directions in the adjacent leaves, create a
characteristic light and dark effect when the surface is seen from an angle.
Book Size The height and width of a door prior to prefitting.
Bow A flat wise deviation from a straight line drawn from top to bottom; a curvature along the length of the door.
Brashness A condition of wood characterized by a low resistance to shock and by abrupt failure across the grain without
splintering.
Bullet Resistant Doors Doors that resist penetration by shots of varying caliber. Resistance may be rated as resistant to medium power,
high power, or high power small arms and high power rifles.
Burl A figure created by abnormal growth or response to injury that forms an interwoven, contorted, or gnarly mass of
dense woody tissue on the trunk or branch of the tree.
Burl, Blending A swirl, twist or distortion in the grain of the wood which usually occurs near a knot or crotch but does not contain a
knot and does not contain abrupt color variation.
Butt Joint A joint formed by square edge surfaces (ends, edges, and faces) coming together; end butt joint, edge butt joint.
Cathedral Grain A grain appearance characterized by a series of stacked and inverted "V"s, or cathedral type of springwood
(earlywood) summerwood (latewood) patterns common in plain sliced (flat cut) veneer (see split heart).
Center Match An even number of veneer components or leaves of equal size (prior to edge trimming) matched with a joint in the
center of the panel to achieve horizontal symmetry.
Certified Wood Wood products that have been qualified by an independent third party agency as satisfying their proprietary
requirements for responsible environmental practices.
Chatter Line appearing across the face at right angles to the grain giving the appearance of one or more corrugations
resulting from bad setting of sanding equipment.
Checks Small slits running parallel to grain wood, caused chiefly by strains produced in seasoning and drying.
Clustered When a defect described in the grading rule is sufficient in number and sufficiently close together to appear to be
concentrated in one area.
Comb Grain A quality of rift cut veneer with exceptionally straight grain and closely spaced growth increments resembling the
appearance of long stands of combed hair.
Compatible When relating door edge or other solid lumber components to face veneer, and the edge or other solid component is
not the same species as the face, the door edge or other solid lumber component is similar in overall color, grain,
character and contrast as the face veneer. Grain figure may vary between veneered and solid lumber components.
(See Matching Edge Band).
Component (Of Face An individual piece of veneer or leaf that is joined to other pieces to achieve a full length and width face.
Veneer)
Composite A composite whose ingredients include cellulosic elements. These cellulosic elements can appear in the form of, but
are not limited to: distinct fibers, fiber bundles, particles, wafers, flakes, strands and veneers. These elements may
be bonded together with naturally occurring or synthetic polymers. Also, additives such as wax or preservatives may
be added to enhance performance.
Conspicuous See ‘knots, conspicuous pin’.
GLOSSARY
Core The innermost layer or section in component construction. For typical constructions see: Particleboard Core,
Medium Density Fiberboard Core, Structural Composite Lumber Core, Staved Lumber Core, Laminated Veneer
Lumber Core, Fire Resistant Composite Core and other special core types.
Core, Fire Resistant A fire resistant core material generally used in wood doors requiring fire ratings of 3/4 hour or more. Engineered
composite products meeting the minimum requirements of WDMA.
Cross Bar (Veneer) Irregularity of grain resembling a dip in the grain running at right angles, or nearly so, to the length of the veneer.
Cross Break Separation (break) of the wood cells across the grain. Such breaks may be due to internal strains resulting from
unequal longitudinal shrinkage, or to external forces.
Cross Figures A series of naturally occurring figure effects characterized by mild or dominant patterns across the grain in some
faces. For example, a washboard effect occurs in fiddle-back cross figure; and cross wrinkles occur in the mottle
figure.
Crossbanding A ply placed between the core and face veneer in 5-ply construction or a ply placed between the back and face of a
3-ply skin in 7-ply construction, typically of hardwood veneer or engineered wood product.
Cup A deviation from a straight line drawn from side to side; a curvature along the width of the door.
Dead Knots (Open Knots) Openings where a portion of the wood knot has dropped out or where cross checks have occurred to present an
opening.
Decay The decomposition of wood substance by fungi.
Defect, Open Checks, splits, open joints, knotholes, cracks, loose knots, wormholes, gaps, voids, or other opening interrupting the
smooth continuity of the wood surface.
Delamination Separation of plies or layers of wood or other material through failure of the adhesive bond.
Discolorations Stains in wood substances. Some common veneer stains are sap stains, blue stains, stain produced by chemical
action caused by the iron in the cutting knife coming into contact with the tannic acid in the wood, and those
resulting from the chemical action of the glue.
Door, Bifold Doors so hinged as to fold against the door jamb. Bifold doors are normally classified as either two- or four-leaf
units.
Door Frame A group of components (wood, composite, aluminum or steel) that are assembled to form an enclosure and support
for a door. Also known as door jambs.
Door, Louver A door assembly of stiles and rails where the interior is filled with slat or chevron louvers.
Doze A form of incipient decay characterized by a dull and lifeless appearance of the wood, accompanied by a lack of
strength and softening of the wood substance.
Edge Band A strip along the outside edges of the two sides and/or top and bottom of the door (See stiles/vertical edges,
rails/horizontal edges).
Edge Glued (Edge Joint) When the edges of boards are glued together to increase the width.
End Match A door/transom combination where single piece of veneer extends from the bottom to the top of the door with a
mirror image at the transom.
Engineered Construction A method of constructing a wood flush door that minimizes the use of solid lumber components. Stiles and rails
have solid lumber edges only (where visible), or have face veneers over a composite core.
Engineered Materials A general term used to describe any wood or plant fiber composite panel. Such products as Particleboard, MDF,
SCL and LVL are described as Engineered Fiber. Typically they are made from wood or plant fiber or wood pieces
and have specific quality requirements.
Engineered Veneer Veneers that are first peeled, normally from Obeche or Poplar logs. The peeled veneer leaves are dyed to a
specified color, and then glued together in a mold to produce a large laminated block. The shape of the mold
determines the final grain configuration. The block is then sliced into leaves of veneer with a designed appearance
that is highly repeatable.
Face Veneer The outermost exposed wood veneer surface of a veneered wood door.
Few A small number of characteristics without regard to their arrangement in the panel
Fill (Putty Repairs) A repair to an open defect usually made with fast drying plastic putty. The repairs should be well made with non-
shrinking putty of a color matching the surrounding area of the wood, to be flat and level with the face and panel,
and to be sanded after application and drying.
Finger Joint A series of interlocking fingers precision cut on the ends of two pieces of wood which mesh together and are held
rigidly in place with adhesive.
Fire Rated Doors A door which has been constructed in such a manner that when installed in an assembly will pass a fire test under
neutral (UL 10B) or positive (UL 10C) pressure criteria and can be rated as resisting fire for 20 minutes (1/3 hour),
45 minutes (3/4 hour), 1 hour, or 1-1/2 hours. The door must be tested and carry an identifying label from a qualified
inspection agency.
Fire Resistant Composite A core, typically incorporating minerals rather than wood fiber as the primary component, designed to improve fire
Core resistance and thermal transmission,
7
GLOSSARY
Flake See Fleck, Ray.
Flat-Cut See Plain-Sliced.
Fleck, Ray (Flake) Portion of a ray as it appears on the quartered or rift cut surface. Fleck can be dominant appearance in oak and is
sometimes referred to as flake.
Flitch A hewn or sawn log made ready for veneer production or the actual veneer slices of one half log, kept in order, and
used for the production of door faces.
Gaps Open slits in the inner ply or plies or improperly joined veneer when joined veneers are used for inner plies.
Glass Stop A small wood moulding (bead) applied to the perimeter of glazed openings to secure the glazing materials within a
door.
Grain The direction, size, arrangement and appearance of the fibers in wood or veneer.
Grain Slope Expression of the angle of the grain to the long edges of the veneer component.
Grain Sweep Expression of the angle of the grain to the long edges of the veneer component over a 12 inch (300 mm) length
from each end of the door.
Gum Pockets Well-defined opening between rings of annual growth containing gum or evidence of prior gum accumulations.
Mainly found in cherry.
Gum Spots & Streaks Gum or resinous material of color spots caused by prior resin accumulations sometimes found on panel surfaces.
Hairline A thin, perceptible line showing at the joint of two pieces of wood.
Half-round A method of veneer cutting similar to rotary cutting, except that the piece being cut is secured to a "stay log" a
device that permits the cutting of the log on a wider sweep than when mounted with its center secured in the lathe to
produce rotary sliced veneer. A type of half-round cutting is used to achieve plain-sliced or flat-cut veneer.
Hardboard Homogeneous panels manufactured primarily from inter-felted lignocellulosic (wood) fibers consolidated under heat
and pressure with density of 31 lb/ft 3 (497 kg/m3) or more.
Hardwood General term used to designate lumber or veneer produced from temperate zone deciduous or tropical broad-
leaved trees in contrast to softwood, which is produced from trees which are usually needle bearing or coniferous.
The term does not infer hardness in its physical sense.
Heartwood The non-active center of a tree generally distinguishable from the outer portion (sapwood) by its darker color.
High Pressure Decorative A high impact resistant surface material consisting of decorative surface paper impregnated with melamine resins
Laminate (HPDL) pressed over multiple kraft paper layers saturated with phenolic resins, thermoset at high pressure and temperature.
High Density Fiberboard The generic name for a panel made out of exploded wood fibers that have been highly compressed and where the
(HDF) bonding of the wood fibers requires no additional materials, although resin is often added.
Holes, Worm Holes resulting from infestation by worms greater than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) in diameter and not exceeding 5/8 inch
(16 mm) in length.
Inconspicuous Barely detectable with the naked eye at a distance of 6 ft. to 8 ft. (1.8 m to 2.4 m).
Indentations Areas in the face that have been compressed as the result of residue on the platens of the hot press or handling
damages.
Intumescent A material that expands when exposed to extreme heat or fire to fill any gap between the door and frame or
between doors.
Joint The line of juncture between the edges or ends of two adjacent pieces of veneer.
Joint, Edge Joint running parallel to the grain of the wood.
Joint, Open Joint in which two adjacent pieces of veneer do not fit tightly together.
Kiln-Dried Lumber dried in a closed chamber in which the removal of moisture is controlled by artificial heat and usually by
controlled relative humidity.
Knife Cuts per inch (KCPI) A measure of the smoothness of machined lumber. Can be determined by holding the surfaced board at an angle to
a strong light source and counting the visible ridges per inch, usually perpendicular to the profile. The surface is
smoother with more knife marks per inch.
Knife Marks Very fine lines that appear across the panel veneer or wood solids that can look as though they are raised resulting
from some defect in the lathe knife that cannot be removed with sanding.
Knot Cross section of tree branch or limb with grain usually running at right angles to that of the piece of wood in which it
occurs.
Knot Holes Voids produced when knots drop from the wood in which they were originally embedded.
Knots, Blending Pin Sound knots 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) or less that generally do not contain dark centers. Blending pin knots are barely
detectable at a distance of 6 ft. to 8 ft. (1.8 m to 2.4 m), do not detract from the overall appearance of the panel, and
are not prohibited from appearing in all grades.
Knots, Conspicuous Pin Sound knots 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) or less in diameter containing dark centers.
Knots, Open (Knot Holes) Openings where a portion of the wood substance of the knot was dropped out, or where cross checks have
occurred to produce an opening. (See Dead Knots)
Knots, Sound Tight Knots that are solid across their face and fixed by growth to retain their place.
8
GLOSSARY
Knots, Spike Knots cut from 0o to 45o to the long axis of limbs.
Laminated Veneer Manufactured by laminating veneer with all grain laid-up parallel. It can be manufactured by using various species of
Lumber Core (LVLC) wood fiber in various thicknesses.
Lap (Veneer) A condition where the pieces of veneer are so misplaced that one piece overlaps the other and does not make a
smooth joint.
Lock Block A concealed block the same thickness as the door stile or core which is adjacent to the stile at a location
corresponding to the lock location and into which a lock is fitted.
Loose Side In knife-cut veneer, that side of the sheet that was in contact with the knife as the veneer was being cut, and
containing cutting checks (lathe checks) because of the bending of the wood at the knife edge.
Low Pressure Decorative A decorative surface paper that is saturated with reactive resins. During hot press lamination, the resin flows into the
Laminate (LPDL) surface of the substrate, creating a hard crosslinked thermosetting permanent bond and permanently changing the
characteristics of both the paper and the board.
Louver A panel constructed of wood or metal slats installed in an opening to allow light, air and noise. Common types are
slat and Chevron – an inverted “V” wood louver (vented or non-vented).
Matching Edge Band (ME) An edge band that is the same species or laminate pattern as the face veneer.
Medium Density The generic name for a panel or core manufactured from lignocellulosic fibers combined with a synthetic resin or
Fiberboard (MDF) other suitable binder and bonded together under heat and pressure in a hot press by a process in which the added
binder creates the entire bond.
Medium Density Overlay Typically MDO is kraft paper saturated with resin and cured under high heat and pressure to make a hard, smooth,
(MDO) paintable surface.
Medium Density Wood fiber and/or agri-fiber based materials that comply with ANSI A208.2.
Fiberboard Core (MDFC)
Meeting Edges Two adjacent door edges not separated by a mullion or transom bar. These are found in pair, Dutch door and door
& transom applications.
Mineral See Streaks, Mineral.
Mineral Core See Core, Fire Resistant.
Mineral Stain Olive and greenish-black streaks believed to designate areas of abnormal concentration of mineral matter; common
in hard maple, hickory, and basswood. Also called Mineral Streak.
Mineral Streaks Sharply contrasting elongated discoloration of the wood substance.
Natural When referring to color and matching, veneers containing any amount of sapwood and/or heartwood, i.e., natural
birch, maple, ash.
Neutral Pressure A fire door test procedure where the neutral pressure plane is at or near the top of the door. Sometimes referred to
as negative pressure.
Nominal A term that designates a stated dimension as being approximate and subject to allowances for variation.
Non-Bonded Core Stiles and rails (edge bands) are not glued to the core prior to face materials.
Not Noticeable Not readily visible without careful inspection (as a measurement of natural or machining characteristics).
Not Restricted Allowed, unlimited.
Occasional A small number of characteristics that are arranged somewhat diversely within the face.
Particleboard A panel or core product composed of small particles of wood and wood fiber that are bonded together with synthetic
resin adhesives in the presence of heat and pressure.
Particleboard Core Wood fiber and/or agri-fiber based materials that comply with ANSI A208.1, minimum grade LD-1.
Patches Matching wood pieces carefully inserted and glued into the door face after defective portions have been removed.
Pitch An accumulation of resin that occurs in separations in the wood or in the wood cells themselves.
Pitch Pocket A well-defined opening between the annual growth rings that contains pitch.
Pitch Streak A well-defined accumulation of pitch in the wood cells in a more or less regular streak.
Pith A small, soft core occurring in the center of the log.
Plain Sliced Veneer sliced parallel to the pith of the log and approximately tangent to the growth rings to achieve flat cut veneer.
Plain sliced veneer can be cut using either a horizontal or vertical slicing machine or by the half-round method using
a rotary lathe. Also known as flat cut
Plank Matched A face containing specially selected and assembled dissimilar (in color, grain and width) veneer strips of the same
species, and sometimes grooved at the joints between strips, to simulate lumber planking. Plank matched faces are
not available pair matched or set matched.
Pleasing Match A face containing components, which provide a pleasing overall appearance. The grain of the various components
need not be matched at the joints. Sharp color contrasts at the joints of the components are not permitted.
Ply A single sheet of veneer or several strips laid with adjoining edges that may or may not be glued, which forms one
veneer lamination in a glued panel. In some constructions, a ply is used to refer to other wood components such as
particleboard or MDF.
9
GLOSSARY
Positive Pressure A fire door test procedure where the neutral pressure plane is located at 40 inches (1 m) above the sill.
Prefitting Trimming of the door for width and/or height.
Quartered (Quarter-sliced, Veneer produced by cutting in a radial direction to the pith to achieve a straight (vertical) grain pattern. In some
Quarter Cut) species, principally red oak and white oak, ray fleck is produced, the amount of which may be unlimited.
Ray Ribbon-shaped strand of tissue extending in a radial direction across the grain, so oriented that the face of the
ribbon is exposed as a fleck on the quarter surface. Also known as Wood Ray
Rails/Horizontal Edges Top and bottom edge bands of door.
Random Matched A face containing veneer strips of the same species which are selected and assembled without regard to color or
(Mismatched) grain, resulting in variations, contrasts and patterns of color and grain. Pleasing appearance is not required.
Random matched faces are not available pair matched or set matched.
Ray Fleck See Fleck, Ray.
Red/Brown When referring to color and matching, veneers containing all heartwood, ranging in color from light to dark.
Repairs A patch, shim, or filler material inserted and/or glued into veneer or a panel to achieve a sound surface.
Repairs, Blending Wood or filler insertions similar in color to adjacent wood so as to blend well.
Rift Cut Veneer produced by cutting at a slight right angle to the radial to produce a parallel grain pattern and quartered
appearance without excessive ray fleck. Oak veneer only.
Rotary Cut Veneer produced by centering the entire log in a lathe and turning it against a broad cutting knife.
Rough Cut Irregular shaped areas of generally uneven corrugation on the surface of veneer.
Running Match The veneer face is made from components running through the flitch consecutively. Any portion of the component
left over from a face is used as the beginning component or leaf in starting the next veneer face.
Ruptured Grain A break or breaks in the grain or between springwood and summerwood caused or aggravated by excessive
pressure on the wood by seasoning, manufacturing, or natural processes. Ruptured grain appears as a single or
series of distinct separations in the wood such as when springwood is crushed leaving the summerwood to separate
in one or more growth increments.
Rustic Lacking excessive refinement, having a rough surface or finish.
Safety Glazing Materials Glazing materials so constructed, treated or combined with other material as to minimize the likelihood of cutting or
piercing injuries resulting from human contact with the material. The most common types used in doors are
tempered or laminated.
Sapwood The living wood of lighter color occurring in the outer portion of a tree.
Shake A separation along the grain of wood in which the greater part occurs between the rings of annual growth.
Sharp Contrast For the purpose of this standard, this term means the veneer of lighter than average color should not be joined at
the edges with veneer of darker than average color, and that two adjacent pieces of veneer should not be widely
dissimilar in grain, figure and natural character markings.
Shims A split repaired in a piece of wood veneer, preferably from the same piece of veneer from which the face is made to
ensure good color and grain match. The grain running in the same direction as the split to be inconspicuous to the
naked eye, and free of any gaps where the shim joins the veneer. To be glued into the split and sanded after being
made. Color matched.
Show Through (Sanding) A defect caused by excessive sanding such that the crossbanding is visible through the face veneer.
Show Through A defect caused by the outline and/or surface irregularities, such as frame parts, core laps, voids, etc., that is visible
(Telegraphing) through the face veneers.
Skin The face layer of a flush or stile and rail door, whether flat or configured, which is used for facings for flush wood
doors.
Sliced Veneer produced by thrusting a log or sawed flitch into a slicing machine, which shears off veneer in sheets.
Slight Visible on observation, but does not interfere with the overall aesthetic appearance.
Slip Matched A sheet from a flitch is slid across the sheet beneath and, without turning, spliced at the joint.
Smooth, Tight Cut Veneer cut to minimize lathe checks.
Sound Transmission A single number rating system derived from measured values of sound transmission loss or the acoustical
Class (STC) performance of a building element, such as a door, window or wall. The higher the STC value, the better the rating
and the better the acoustical performance value. Tested in accordance with ASTM E413 and E90.
Split Heart A method of achieving an inverted "V" or cathedral type of springwood (earlywood)/summerwood (latewood), plain-
sliced (flat-cut) figure by joining two veneer components of similar color and grain. A cathedral type figure must be
achieved by a single component in AA grade; the split heart method is allowed in grades A and B. Each half of a
split heart shall be subject to the minimum component width requirements for grade A and B faces.
Splits Separations of wood fiber running parallel to the grain.
Splits, Hairline A perceptible separation or absence of wood fiber running parallel with the grain.
Staved Lumber Core Made with any combination of blocks or strips of wood, not more than 2-1/2 inches (64 mm) wide, of one species of
(SLC) wood glued together with joints staggered in adjacent rows.
10
GLOSSARY
Stiles/Vertical Edges The upright or vertical pieces of the core assembly of a wood flush door. Measurement. The width of the vertical
edge/stile is measured at its widest side (the wide side of a beveled door).
Streaks, Mineral Sharply contrasting elongated discoloration of the wood substance.
Structural Composite An engineered wood product that is made by fusing a network of wood strands together with a water-resistant
Lumber Core (SCLC) adhesive to produce a strong, solid and stable product that has true structural properties with excellent screw
holding properties and very high split resistance.
Sugar Color streaks or spots attributed to discoloration involving sap in maple veneer.
Sweep Expression of the angle of the grain to the long edges of the veneer component over the area extending one-eighth
of the length of the piece from the ends.
Tape Strips of gummed paper used to hold the edges of the veneer together at the joints prior to gluing.
Telegraphing See Show Through.
Thermally Fused A polyester or melamine resin-impregnated paper, thermally fused under pressure to a composite core.
Decorative Laminate
Panel
Tight Side In knife-cut veneer, that side of the sheet that was farthest from the knife as the sheet was being cut and containing
no cutting checks (lathe checks).
Transom An operable or non-operable fenestration product that is designed to be a companion product installed above a door
system.
Twist A deviation in which one or two corners of the door are out of plane with the other corners of the door.
Veneer (wood) A thin sheet of wood, rotary cut, sliced, or sawed from a log, bolt, or flitch.
Veneered Construction See Engineered Construction
Vine Streaks (Mark.) Bands of irregular grain running across or diagonally to the grain, which are caused by the growth of climbing vines.
Voids See Gaps.
Warp Any distortion in the plane of a door itself and not its relationship to the frame or jamb in which it is to be hung. The
term warp includes bow, cup and twist.
White When referring to color and matching, veneers containing all sapwood, ranging in color from pink to yellow.
Wood Filler An aggregate of resin and strands, shreds, or flour of wood, which is used to fill openings in wood and provide a
smooth, durable surface.
Wood Flush Door An assembly consisting of a core and one or more edge bands, with 2 plies of wood veneer with laminate, wood, or
wood derivative on each side. All parts are composed of wood, wood derivatives, fire resistant composites or
decorative laminates.
Worm Track (Scar) The groove or resulting scar tissue in the wood caused by worms or other borers. Often appears as sound
discolorations running with or across the grain in straight to wavy streaks. Sometimes referred to as pith flecks in
certain species of Maple, Birch and other hardwoods because of a resemblance to the color of pith.
11
AESTHETICS
A-1: Aesthetic Grades for Architectural Wood Flush Doors
The design professional can specify with confidence using ANSI/WDMA I.S.1A guidelines. WDMA’s Architectural Wood Flush Door Standard
addresses both the aesthetic and performance attributes of the door. Both are important to achieve desired appearance and function.
Wood flush door aesthetics are specified by choosing a Premium grade or Custom grade door. These designations determine the basic appearance
of the door with respect to veneer grade, matching requirements, pair and set matching, vertical edge species and other attributes that determine the
appearance in individual doors and doors in pairs.
The highest grade commercially available in both material and fabrication. This grade is intended for the finest commercial,
industrial and institutional buildings. Uses AA grade faces (A grade faces for Western Red Alder, White Pine, Douglas Fir
Premium
and Redwood) that are assembled using book and center balance match; other face options are available but must be
specified.
The standard grade in both material and fabrication. This grade is intended for high-quality work. Uses A Grade faces that
Custom
are assembled using book and running match; other face options are available but must be specified.
Note: If the Aesthetic Grade is not specified, Custom grade is the default.
Note: Economy grade has been discontinued as it is seldom specified for architectural wood flush doors.
It is also possible for a specifier to alter the basic premium grade or custom grade requirements to either upgrade or downgrade certain aspects of
the door appearance, such as:
Special Flitch Selection Special Color Ranges (face and/or edge)

Sketch Faces Faces Other Than Wood Veneer
Special Veneer Matches Finer Finishes
Minimum Veneer Piece Width
There are other ways to modify the aesthetics of the door as well, such as by the addition of applied mouldings, lite mouldings, louvers and other
accompanying parts.
The design professional is encouraged to consult directly with the manufacturer during the development of the design and specifications for these
important projects.
A-2: Face Selection

Specifiers need to determine and specify the door face material required.
Veneers for Transparent Finishes
Premium Grade Doors:
Grade AA faces (A grade faces for Western Red Alder, White Pine, Douglas Fir and Redwood), book and center balance match, are standard for
Premium grade doors. Face veneer shall be of sufficient thickness so as not to permit show through of crossbanding after sanding and/or before
finishing. Other face options are available but must be specified.
Custom Grade Doors:
Grade A faces, book and running match, are standard for Custom grade doors. Face veneer shall be of sufficient thickness so as not to permit
show through of crossbanding after sanding and/or before finishing. Other face options are available but must be specified.
Species: There are numerous domestic and foreign wood species available from which to select veneer type, including those further defined in
Section A-8.
Matching: Many different visual effects can be obtained by face veneer matching. The various considerations in matching are described in the
following sections:
A-3: Appearance of Individual Pieces of Face Veneer.
A-4: Matching Between Individual Face Veneer Pieces.
A-5: Assembly of Spliced Face Veneer on a Door Face.
A-6: Appearance of Doors in Pairs or Sets.
A-7: Appearance of Doors with Transoms
12
Materials for Opaque Finishes
Medium Density Overlay (MDO), Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF), High Density Fiberboard (HDF) or other high-density surface. These
surfaces provide the optimum finishing surface for Premium grade doors.
Custom Grade Doors:
Closed grain hardwood veneer, Medium Density Overlay (MDO), Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF or other high-density surface. When using
hardwood veneer, extra preparation is required prior to job site finishing because of the natural characteristics of wood. Crossbands are not
required under hardboard or composite surfaces.
Laminates
High Pressure Decorative Laminates (HPDL): Virtually any high pressure laminate color and texture can be utilized in the manufacture of
architectural wood flush doors. However, high gloss laminates should be avoided because they tend to accentuate natural telegraphing.
Low Pressure Decorative Laminates (LPDL) or Thermally Fused Decorative Laminate Panel: A laminate in which the resin flows into the surface of
the substrate during lamination, creating a permanent bond and a low gloss finish. Many colors and patterns are available.
Other Materials
Manufacturers offer a variety of other face options for doors, including but not limited to polyvinyl chloride (PVC), fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP),
cork and leather. Consult with a specific manufacturer for their specific offerings.
A-3: Appearance of Individual Veneer Leaves

The beauty of veneer is in the natural variations of texture, grain, figure, color, and the way it is assembled on a door face. The way in which a log is
cut, in relation to the annual growth rings, determines the appearance of veneer. The illustrations below represent a typical appearance produced
with the different types of cut. However, veneers leaves will have natural variations in grain and pattern that are inherent in the species and cut.
Rotary Cut Plain Sliced: Quarter Cut: Quarter Cut: Rift Cut: Comb Grain:
Flat Cut Red & White Oak Other Species Red & White Oak Red & White Oak
Rotary
This is a veneer produced by centering the log in a lathe and turning it against a broad cutting knife which is set into the log a slight angle, producing
a more-or-less continuous sheet of veneer. This cut follows the log’s annual growth rings, providing a generally bold random appearance.
Plain Sliced (Flat Cut)
Slicing is done parallel to a line through the center of the log, resulting in cathedral and straight grained patterns. The individual pieces of veneer are
kept in the order they are sliced, permitting a natural grain progression when assembled as veneer faces.
Quarter Cut
By slicing the log roughly parallel to a radius line through the log segment, a series of stripe is produced that vary in width from species to species.
Ray fleck (flake) is a characteristic of this cut in Red and White Oak.
13
Rift Cut (only in Red & White Oak)
This cut slices slightly across the medullary rays, accentuating the vertical grain and minimizing the ray fleck (flake). Rift grain is restricted to Red
and White Oak.
Comb Grain (limited availability) (only in Red & White Oak)
This is a rift cut veneer distinguished by the tightness and straightness of the grain along the entire length of the veneer. Slight angle in the grain is
allowed. Comb grain is restricted to Red and White Oak. There are occasional cross bars, and ray fleck (flake) is minimal.
A-4: Matching Between Individual Veneer Leaves

The ways by which veneer leaves can be pieced together create a variety of looks for the assembled veneer. The type of match must be specified; if
not specified, book match will be provided.
Illustrations reprinted with permission from, Architectural Woodwork Institute, Reston, Virginia
Book Match
The most commonly used match in the industry, every other piece of veneer is turned over so adjacent pieces are like two adjacent pages in an
open book. The veneer joints match and create a mirrored image pattern at the joint line, yielding a maximum continuity of grain. Book matching is
used with Rotary, Plain Sliced, Quarter, Rift Cut or Comb Grain veneers.
Barber Pole Effect in Book Match
Because the “tight” and “loose” sides alternate in adjacent pieces of veneer that are book matched, the leaves may accept stain or reflect light
differently, which may cause a noticeable color variation called barber poling. See slip match for further information on color variation. Barber
pole is not considered a manufacturing defect.
Slip Match
Adjoining pieces of veneer are placed in sequence without turning over every other piece. The grain figure repeats, but joints won’t have a mirrored
effect. Slip matching is recommended and often used in Quarter, Rift Cut and Comb Grain veneers to eliminate the barber pole effect. However, it
may cause a sloping appearance of the veneer, especially in taller doors.
Random Matched (Mismatched)
A face containing veneer leaves of the same species which are selected and assembled without regard to color or grain, resulting in variations,
contrasts and patterns of color and grain. Pleasing appearance is not required. Random matched faces are not available pair matched or set
matched.
Plank Matched (not illustrated)
A face containing specially selected and assembled veneer leaves from a single specie. The leaves are dissimilar (in color, grain and width) veneer
strips of the same species, and sometimes grooved at the joints between strips, to simulate lumber planking. Plank matched faces are not available
pair matched or set matched.
14
A-5: Assembly of Spliced Veneer Leaves on Door Face
The way matched veneer leaves are assembled within a given door face can also help achieve a desired look. The type of assembly match must be
specified. If no specification is made, Running Match is the default.
Illustrations reprinted with permission from the Architectural Woodwork Institute, Reston, Virginia
Running Match
Each face is assembled from as many veneer leaves as necessary The inside leaves will be equal in width to one another, the outside veneer leaves
will be of unequal width, This provides a non-symmetrical appearance in each door face and results in high yield.
Balance Match
Each face is assembled from leaves of uniform width before trimming, resulting in a symmetrical appearance and medium yield.
Center Balance Match
Each face is assembled from an even number of veneer leaves of uniform width before trimming. Thus there is a veneer joint in the center of the
panel, producing symmetry but resulting in low yield.
15
A-6: Appearance of Doors in Pairs or Sets
When a specific transition is desired between paired doors or sets of doors within a space, it is important to specify the requirement accordingly.
The illustrations below show faces constructed using the Center Match process. Pairs and sets may also be manufactured with Running Match or
Balance Match faces. Any sequence matching required from opening to opening must be specified.
Pair Match Set Match
Running Match
Illustrations reprinted with permission from the Architectural Woodwork Institute, Reston, Virginia
Note:
The type of match must be specified. If no specification is made, running match is the most commonly used assembly method for A grade faces.
Any sequence matching from opening to opening must be specified.
Pair Match
Doors hung in adjacent sets or in close proximity where the veneer on one leaf is either Center, Book or Balance Matched to the other leaf in the
pair.
Set Match
Pair matching doors in groups or multiples (i.e., pair matching of pairs).
16
A-7: Appearance of Doors with Transoms
When specifying doors with adjacent transoms, the match between the door and transom must be specified,
Premium Bottom Edge: Full width, veneered or solid, same species as door face.
Custom Bottom Edge: Full width, veneered or solid, compatible species to door face.
Continuous Match End Match
Illustrations reprinted with permission from the 8th Architectural Woodwork Institute, Reston, Virginia
Continuous Match
Veneer extends from the bottom of the door to the top of the transom. Veneer length may limit this option.
End Match
Veneer extends from the bottom of the door to the top of the door with a mirror image at the transom.
With any of these door/transom match types, slight misalignment of veneer grain may occur at the transition from door to transom. A variation of
grain alignment from side to side is acceptable for transom matching as follows:
Single door and transom: 3/8 inch (9.5mm)
Pair of doors with single transom: 1/2 inch (12.7mm)
A-8: Flush Door Face Veneer Characteristics

The following tables identify the guidelines used to determine acceptable characteristics for a variety of wood species with respect to grades AA and
A. If doors are intended to be installed adjacent to or are intended to become part of other architectural woodwork, veneer criteria shall conform to
HPVA veneer panel grades.
17
DOOR FACE DESCRIPTION - Ash, Beechb, Birch, Maple and Poplar
(Adapted from HPVA with permission) WHEN SPECIFYING NATURAL, VENEERS CONTAIN UNLIMITED AMOUNTS OF SAPWOOD AND/OR HEARTWOOD
Cut Plain-Sliced (Flat Cut), Quarter-Cut, Rotary-Cut
Grade Description AA A
Color and Matching
Sap Heart Sap Heart
Natural Natural
(White) (Red/Brown) (White) (Red/Brown)
Sapwood Yes No Yes Yes No Yes
Heartwood No Yes Yes No Yes Yes
Color Streaks or Spots Slight Slight Yes
Color Variation Slight Yes Slight Yes
Sharp Color Contrasts at Splice
Yes, if Slip, Plank or Random matched Yes, if Slip, Plank or Random matched
Joints
Type Of Matching
Book Matched Yes Yes
Slip Matched Specify Specify
Pleasing Matched not applicable not applicable
Nominal Minimum Plain Sliced 5 inches (127 mm) 4 inches (102 mm)
Width of Face Quarter-Cut 3 inches (76 mm) 3 inches (76 mm)
Components (a) Rotary-Cut 5 inches (127 mm) 4 inches (102 mm)
Natural Characteristics (except as listed below, natural characteristics are not restricted)
Small Conspicuous Burls & Pin
1 per 5 sq. ft. (2 per sq. m) 1 per 3 sq. ft. (4 per sq. m)
Knots-Combined Avg. Number
Conspicuous Burls - Max. Size 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) 3/8 inch (9.5 mm)
Conspicuous Pin Knots
Avg. Number 1 per 8 sq. ft. (4 per 3 sq. m)
No
Max. Size: Dark Part 1/8 inch (3.2 mm)
Total 1/4 inch (6.4 mm)
Scattered Sound and Repaired
Knots - Combined Avg. No.
Max. Size - Sound No No
Max. Size - Repaired
Avg. No. - Repaired
Mineral Streaks No; Maple, slight Slight
Bark Pockets No No
Worm Tracks Slight Slight
Vine Marks Slight Slight
Cross Bars Slight Slight
Manufacturing Characteristics
Rough Cut / Ruptured Grain No No
Blended Repaired Tapering Two 1/32 inch x 3 inch Two 1/16 inch x 6 inch
Hairline Splits (Two 0.8 mm x 76 mm) (Two 1.6 mm x 152 mm)
(on ends only)
Repairs Very Small Blending Small Blending
Special Characteristics (except as listed below, special characteristics are not restricted)
1 inch in 12 inches (25.4 mm in 305 mm) maximum grain slope, 2 1/2 inches in 12 inches (63.5 mm in 305 mm) maximum grain
Quarter Cut
sweep
Unfilled worm holes, open splits, open joints, open bark pockets, shake or doze not allowed in above grades.
Notes: a. Outside components will be a different size to allow for edge trim loss and certain types of matching.
b. American or European
18
DOOR FACE DESCRIPTION - African and Honduras Mahogany, Anegre, Makore, Sapele
(Adapted from HPVA with permission)
Cut Plain-Sliced (Flat-Cut), Quarter-Cut, Rotary-Cut
Color and Matching
Sapwood No No
Heartwood Yes Yes
Color Streaks or Spots Slight Slight
Color Variation Slight Slight
Joints
Type Of Matching
Natural Characteristics (except as limited below, natural characteristics are not restricted)
1 per 5 sq. ft. (2 per sq. m) 1 per 3 sq. ft. (4 per sq. m)
Avg. Number 1 per 8 ft. sq. (4 per 3 sq. m)
No
Max. Size: Dark Part 1/8 inch(3.2 mm)
Avg. No. - Repaired
Mineral Streaks No Slight
Bark Pockets No No
Worm Tracks No No
Vine Marks Slight Slight
Cross Bars Occasional Occasional
(on ends only)
Special Characteristics (except as limited below, special characteristics are not restricted)
1 inch in 12 inches (25.4mm in 305 mm) maximum grain slope, 2-1/2 inches in 12 inches (63.4 mm in 305 mm) maximum grain
Quarter Cut
sweep
Note: a. Outside components will be a different size to allow for edge trim loss and certain types of matching.
19
DOOR FACE DESCRIPTION - Red and White Oak
Cut Plain-Sliced (Flat Cut), Quarter Cut,Rift and Comb Grain, Rotary-Cut
AA A
Grade Description
Red Oak White Oak Red Oak White Oak
Color and Matching
Sapwood No No 5% (a) 5% (a)
Heartwood Yes Yes Yes Yes
Color Streaks or Spots Yes Yes
Joints
Type of Matching
Components (b) Rotary-Cut 5 inches (127 mm) 4 inches (102 mm)
1 per 4 sq. ft. (3 per sq. m) 1 per 2-2/3 sq. ft. (4 per sq. m)
Avg. Number 1 per 3 sq. ft. (4 per sq. m)
No
Max. Size: Dark Part 1/8 inch (3.2 mm)
Avg. No. - Repaired
Mineral Streaks No Slight, Blending
Bark Pockets No No
Worm Tracks No No
Vine Marks No Slight
Cross Bars Slight Slight
(on ends only)
Ray Fleck (Flake) Slight, Blending Slight, Blending
Quarter cut unlimited Quarter cut unlimited
Rift not to exceed 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) in width
Comb not to exceed 3/32 inch (2.4 mm) in width
Slope and Sweep Quarter & Rift 1 inch in 12 inches (25.4 mm in 305mm) max. grain slope, 2-1/2 inch in 12 inches (63.5 mm in 305mm) max. grain sweep
Comb Grain 1/2 inch in 12 inches (12.7 mm in 305mm) max. grain slope, 1/2 inch in 12 inches (12.7 mm in 305mm) max. grain sweep
Unfilled worm holes, open splits, open joints, open bark pockets, shake or doze not permitted in above grades.
Notes: a. Sap is permitted in rotary only unless otherwise specified.
b. Outside components will be a different size to allow for edge trim loss and certain types of matching.
20
DOOR FACE DESCRIPTION – Pecan and Hickory
Cut Plain-Sliced (Flat-Cut), Quarter Cut, Rotary-Cut
Color and Matching
Sapwood Yes Yes
Heartwood Yes Yes
Color Streaks or Spots Yes Yes
Color Variation Yes Yes
Joints
Type Of Matching
1 per sq. ft. (11 per sq. m) 2 per sq. ft. (22 per sq. m)
Conspicuous Pin Knots (b)
Avg. Number 1 per 2 sq. ft. (6 per sq. m) 2 per 1 sq. ft. (22 per sq. m)
Max. Size: Dark Part 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) 1/8 inch (3.2 mm)
Total 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) 1/4 inch (6.4 mm)
Avg. No. - Repaired
Mineral Streaks Slight Slight
Bark Pockets No Small, Occasional
Worm Tracks No Slight
Vine Marks Slight Occasional
Cross Bars Slight Occasional
(on ends only)
Bird Peck (c) No Slight
Knife Marks Knife marks may occur in these high density species.
1 inch in 12 inches (24.4 mm in 305 mm) maximum grain slope, 2-1/2 inches in 12 inches (63.4 mm in 305 mm) maximum
Quarter Cut
grain sweep
Notes: a. Outside components will be a different size to allow for edge trim loss and certain types of matching.
b. For Pecan and Hickory, conspicuous pin knots means sound knots 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) or less in diameter with dark centers larger than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm).
Blending pin knots are sound knots 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) or less in diameter with dark centers 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) or less and are allowed in all grades of
Pecan and Hickory.
c. To achieve a more rustic appearance, bird peck shall be specified
21
DOOR FACE DESCRIPTION - Walnut and Cherry
Cut Plain-Sliced (Flat-Cut), Quarter-Cut, Rotary-Cut
Color and Matching
Sapwood No No (a)
Heartwood Yes Yes
Color Streaks or Spots Slight Slight
Joints
Type Of Matching
Components (b) Rotary-Cut 5 inches (127 mm) 4 inches (102 mm)
1 per 4 sq. ft. ( 3 per sq. m) 1 per 1-1/3 sq. ft. (8 per sq. m)
Conspicuous Pin Knots (c)
Avg. Number 1 per 5 sq. ft. (3 per sq. m) 1 per 2 sq. ft. (6 per sq. m)
Max. Size: Dark Part 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) 1/8 inch (3.2 mm)
Total 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) 1/4 inch (6.4 mm)
Avg. No. - Repaired
Mineral Streaks Slight Slight
Bark Pockets No No
Worm Tracks No No
Vine Marks Slight Occasional
Cross Bars Slight Occasional
(on ends only)
Gum Spots Occasional gum spots permitted in Cherry Occasional gum spots permitted in Cherry
1 inch in 12 inches (25.4 mm in 305 mm) maximum grain slope, 2-1/2 inches in 12 inches (63.4 mm in 305 mm) maximum grain
Quarter Cut
sweep.
Notes: a. Sap is allowed in grades A however, the percentage must be agreed upon between buyer and seller.
b. Outside components will be a different size to allow for edge trim loss and certain types of matching.
c. For Walnut and Cherry, conspicuous pin knots mean sound knots 1/4 inch (6.4mm) or less in diameter with dark centers larger than 1/16 inch (1.6mm).
Blending pin knots are sound knots 1/4 inch (6.4mm) or less in diameter with dark centers of 1/16 inch (1.6mm) or less and are allowed in all grades of
Walnut and Cherry.
22
DOOR FACE DESCRIPTION –Western Red Alder
Cut Plain-Sliced (Flat-Cut)
Grade Description A B C/ Rustic
Color and Matching
Sapwood Yes Yes Yes
Heartwood Yes Yes Yes
Color Streaks Slight Slight Yes
Color Variation Slight Slight Yes
Nominal Minimum Width of
3 inches (76 mm) 3 inches (76 mm) 3 inches (76 mm)
Face Components
Type of Matching
Plank Matched for
Yes(a) Yes(a) Yes(a)
pleasing appearance
Book Matched for color
Specify Specify(b) Specify
and grain at the joints
Natural Characteristics
Conspicuous Burls- Max.
1/2 inch (12.7 mm) Yes Yes
Size
Pin Knots Yes Yes Yes
Unlimited in number
Few - Maximum Size 1/4 inch x 2 inches
Bark Pockets No Maximum size 1/4 inch x 4 inches
(6.4mm x 50.8mm)
((6.4mm x 102mm)
Sound Knots(b) - Max Size
1/2 inch (12.7 mm) 2 inches (50.8 mm) Yes
(may contain dark centers)
Repaired Knot Holes(b) - Unlimited; 1 1/2 inches (38 mm) Max.
Two; 1/4 inch (6.4mm) Max Dia. Six; 3/4 inch (19 mm) Max. Dia.
Number; Maximum Size Dia.
Rough Cut No Small Areas Allowed Small Areas Allowed
Stain No Slight Yes
Blended Repaired Two; 1/16 inch x 6 inches Three; 1/8 inch x 10 inches
1/8 inch x 12 inches (3.2mm x 305mm)
Tapering Hairline Splits (1.6mm x 152 mm) on panel ends (3.2 mm x 254 mm) on panel ends
Repairs Blending Blending Yes
Special Characteristics - Open Knots -
Notes: a. The general color of individual components shall not be significantly lighter or darker than that of the other components in the face.
b. Book Matched Grade B – one row of unlimited 3/4 inch (19 mm) open knots is allowed.
23
DOOR FACE DESCRIPTION - White Pine
Cut Plain-Sliced (Flat-Cut) and Quarter Cut
Grade Description A (Face) B ( Face) C (Face) (a)
Color and Matching
Sapwood Yes Yes Yes
Heartwood Yes Yes Yes
Color Streaks Slight Yes Yes
Color Variation No Slight Yes
Stain, Blue and Brown No Slight Yes
Type of Matching
Plank Matched for
- - -
pleasing appearance
Book Matched for color
Yes Yes NA
and grain at the joints
Burls Yes Yes Yes
Pin Knots Yes Yes Yes
Sound Knots; Max. Size 2 inches (50.8mm) 3 1/2 inches (89 mm) Yes
Spike Knots; Max. Size 2 inches (50.8mm) 3 1/2 inches (89 mm) Yes
Repaired Knot Holes;
3/4 inch (19 mm) 1-1/2 inches (38 mm) Unlimited
Max. Size
Pitch Streaks Small Small Yes
Few to 1/8 inch x 1 inch Few to 1/8 inch x 2 inches
Pitch Pockets Yes
(3.2mm x 25.4 mm) (3.2 mm x 50.8 mm)
Crows Foot Slight Yes Yes
Rough Cut No Slight Yes
Blended Repaired
Yes Yes Yes (b)
Tapering Hairline Splits
Repairs Blending Blending Yes
Cross Bars - - -
Unfilled wormholes, open splits, open joints, ruptured grain, or doze not allowed in grades A and B above
Notes: a. All knotty White Pine complying with this Standard shall meet the C (Face) grade requirements unless otherwise specified.
b. Open hairline checks and splits up to 12 inches (305mm) long and 1/8 inch (3.2mm) wide allowed.
24
DOOR FACE DESCRIPTION - Douglas Fir and *Redwood
*Very limited availability
Cut Sliced - Vertical Grain
Grade Description A A
Douglas Fir Redwood
Color and Matching
Sapwood Limited - No bright Sapwood Yes
Heartwood Yes (a) Yes (a)
Color Streaks No No
Stain, Blue and Brown No No
Type of Matching
Book Matched - matched
for color and grain at the Yes Yes
joints
Slip Matched - for color Yes Yes
Burls Small Small
Pin Knots No Yes
Sound Knots; Max. Size No No
Spike Knots; Max. Size No No
Repaired Knot Holes; Max.
Size No No
Pitch Streaks Small No
Pitch Pockets No No
Crows Foot No No
Rough Cut No No
Blended Repaired
Tapering Hairline Splits Yes Yes
Repairs Blending Blending
Cross Bars No No
Note: a. Heartwood must have 6 or more annual rings per inch (6 per 25 mm).
25
A-9: Fabrication
General Requirements
Workmanship
Exposed and semi-exposed surfaces are to be free of tear out, chips, dents, gouges, tool marks, adhesive residue, sand through, cross sanding,
over/under filling, sharp edges, or similar defects in any 10 square feet (1 square meter) of surface area per grade as follows: (See Section F-6 for
visual inspection standards for factory finished doors)
 Premium grade – None
 Custom grade – Maximum of 5 not to exceed 1/32 inch (0,8 mm) in any dimension
Exposed Surface Quality (Minimum Requirements)
DOOR FEATURES Premium Grade Custom Grade
Finish Type Transparent Opaque Transparent Opaque
Flat Surfaces 150 grit 150 grit 150 grit 150 grit
Moulded Surfaces 120 grit 120 grit 20 KCPI 20 KCPI
Shaped Surfaces 120 grit 120 grit 20 KCPI 20 KCPI
Not visible from a Not visible from a
Sanding Scratches Not a defect Not a defect
distance of 3 feet. distance of 6 feet.
NOTES: No tear outs or hit-or-miss finish allowed. No knife nick marks allowed. Glue and filler, if used, must be inconspicuous and sanded as
smoothly as the surrounding surface.
Veneer Faces, Opaque or Transparent Finish

 Joints must be tight.
 Veneer faces must be completely glued to substrate.
 Veneer faces shall be thoroughly sanded.
 Bleed through of glue at veneer joints that visually affects an applied finish is not permitted.
 Figure is not a function of species grade and any special desires must be so specified.
Vertical Edges, Opaque or Transparent Finish
 Vertical edges shall be smoothly sanded, free of knife and saw marks.
 Voids are not permitted between veneer layers and solid wood edges.
 When allowed under Section C12, joints in edges shall be tight.
 Vertical edges shall have an eased edge at intersections of edges and face veneers.
Crossbands
Crossbands, when used, shall be full piece or edge glued without voids.
 For non-fire doors exceeding standard size limitations (4 feet (1.2 m) in width and or 10 feet (3.0 m) in height), tight butt joints are allowed.
Horizontal Edges
 Joints in horizontal edges shall be without gaps.
 Horizontal edges shall be sound without splits, shake, or doze.
 There shall be no gaps between veneer layers and solid horizontal edges.
26
PERFORMANCE
P-1: Performance Standards for Architectural Wood Flush Doors
Performance is a very important aspect of specifying Architectural Wood Flush Doors and is directly related to the use of the door. The following
table identifies the tests that are conducted and the criteria that must be reached in order to qualify a given door assembly for each specific
Performance Duty Level
ANSI/WDMA I.S.1A Flush Wood Door Minimum Performance Standards
Performance Duty Level

Performance Attribute
Extra Heavy Duty Heavy Duty Standard Duty
Adhesive Bond Durability,
Type I or Type II Type I or Type II Type I or Type II
WDMA TM-6
Cycle Slam, WDMA TM-7 1,000,000 cycles 500,00 cycles 250,000 cycles
Hinge-Loading, WDMA TM-8 550 lbs. (2440 N) 475 lbs. (2110 N) 400 lbs. (1780 N)
Door Finishes Various
TR-6/OP-6 or equal * TR-4/OP-4 or equal * TR-2/OP-2 or equal *
ASTM test methods
Screwholding, WDMA TM-10
Door Face (blocked or unblocked) 550 lbs. (2440 N) 475 lbs. (2110 N) 400 lbs. (1780 N)
Vertical Door Edge 550 lbs. (2440 N) 475 lbs. (2110 N) 400 lbs. (1780 N)
Horizontal Door Edge ** 300 lbs. (1330 N) 240 lbs. (1060 N) 180 lbs. (810 N)
Telegraph, Section T-1 Maximum 0.010 inch in any 3 inch span (0.25 mm in any 76 mm span)
Warp Tolerance, Section T-2 Maximum 0.25 inch in any 3’-6” x 7’-0” (6.4 mm in any 1050 mm x 2100 mm) door section
Squareness, Section T-3 Diagonal variance 1/8 inch (3.2 mm)
* See Section F7. Other formulations may exhibit similar performance characteristics, but must meet or exceed the performance levels for the systems specified to
be considered as equal.
** Horizontal door edge screwholding applies when hardware is to be attached.
P-2: Example Duty Level Applications

As an aid to specifiers, below is a partial list of applications and their typical performance duty levels. Applications shown can be upgraded or
downgraded to another performance duty level as chosen by the specifier.
Extra Heavy Duty Heavy Duty Standard Duty
Typically involves doors where use is Typically involves doors where usage is Typically involves doors where frequency of
considered heavy and frequent, requiring the moderate, requiring intermediate minimum use is low, requiring the lowest minimum
highest minimum performance standards. performance standards. performance standards.
Classroom Assisted Living Room Entry Closet
Patient Rooms Office - Interior Passage Wardrobe
Bathroom - Public Stairwell Bathroom - Private
Dorm Room Mechanical Service Small, low usage Office
Assembly areas Hallway
Auditorium Entry Storage
Detention/Correctional Apartment/Condo Entry
Bullet Resistant X-Ray
Gymnasium/Locker Room Acoustic
Surgical Entry Medical Examination Room
Trauma Centers
Hotel/Motel Room Entry
27
P-3: Dimensional Information
The following dimensional information and tolerances are determined at the time of shipment. Exposure of the door to variations in temperature and
moisture during shipment, storage, and prior to building occupancy may affect the size of door components and their interface.
Doors
Width: ±1/16 inch (±1.6 mm) not prefit
±1/32 inch (±0.8 mm) factory prefit
Height: ±1/16 inch (±1.6 mm)
Thickness: ±1/16 inch (±1.6 mm)
Hardware Machining
Hinge Mortises
Location: ±1/32 inch (±0.8 mm)
Height: +1/32 inch, -0 inch (+0.8 mm, -0 mm)
Depth: +.025 inch, -0 inch (+0.6 mm, -0 mm)
Backset: +0 inch, -1/32 inch (+0 mm, -0.8 mm)
Lock Fronts
Location: ±1/32 inch (±0.8 mm)
Height: +1/32 inch, -0 inch (+0.8 mm, -0 mm)
Width: +1/32 inch, -0 inch (+0.8 mm, -0 mm)
Depth: +.025 inch, -0 inch (+0.6 mm, -0 mm)
Typical Prefit Clearances
Non-fire rated Doors
Top & Hinge Edges 1/8 inch (3 mm) clearance
Lock Edge, Single Door 1/8 inch (3 mm) clearance
Meeting Edges, Pairs 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) per leaf
Bottom Edge 3/4 inch (20 mm) maximum from floor
3/8 inch (10 mm) maximum from top of raised sill
Non-fire rated Transoms, Sidelites & Dutch Doors
Width Per manufacturer's specifications
Height Per manufacturer's specifications
Fire Rated Openings
See NFPA 80 Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives
P-4: Flame Spread Smoke Development

Model building codes do not usually require doors to comply with Flame Spread Smoke Development requirements. ASTM E 84 is the Standard Test
Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials. This test is used to evaluate building materials to assess how a fire may spread in
the room of origin. The principle tests for evaluating fire doors (NFPA 252, UL10-B, UL10-C) aim to determine a door ability to prevent a fire from
spreading from the room of origin to an adjacent room or space.
.
28
TESTS
T-1: Show Through or Telegraph
Telegraphing of vertical and horizontal edges and cores is considered a defect when the face of the door
varies from a true plane in excess of 0.010 inch in any 3 inch span (0.25 mm in any 76 mm span), using
a straight edge and feeler gauge or other accurate measuring methods.
T-2: Flatness or Warp

Warp is a variation from a plane surface within the door itself. It does not refer to the door in relation to
the frame or jamb in which it was hung. Bow, cup, and twist are terms which describe warp in a door and are defined as follows:
Bow is a curvature along the door height, or a deviation from a flat plane from end to end.
Cup is a curvature across the door width, or a deviation from a flat plane from side to side.
Twist is a distortion in which one corner is out of the plane of the other three corners.
Warp is usually a result of unequal stresses within the door from one face to the other caused by changes in humidity and temperature conditions or
uneven conditions from one face to the other. Improper handling, stacking, and storage can also contribute to warp. See the Section on Job Site
Information for specific recommendations.
HOW TO MEASURE WARP
Use a taut string or straight-edge and measure on the concave face of door – diagonally, horizontally, or vertically. Measure at the point of
maximum distance between the taut string or straight-edge and the face of the door.
Measurement must be made on the concave face of the door.
Door should be open when measuring for warp (lock not latched into strike).
One person can measure warp using a string and taping one or both ends onto
the face of the door, holding it taut.
Don’t measure warp in relationship to the door frame.
Often a door may not fit into the frame properly but is not warped. In these cases,
check the frame – it should be set plumb and square, and jambs should not be
twisted or out of alignment.
Action on any claim for warp may be deferred for up to one year after project
completion to permit doors to acclimate to temperature and humidity conditions.
ALLOWABLE WARP TOLERANCE FOR WOOD DOORS
1-3/4 inch (44 mm) or thicker doors:
3’-6” x 7’-0” (1050 mm x 2100 mm) or smaller, 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) maximum.
Larger than 3’-6” x 7’-0” (1050 mm x 2100 mm), 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) maximum in any
3’-6” x 7’-0” (1050 mm x 2100 mm) section.
1-3/8 inch (35 mm) doors:
3’-0” x 7’-0” (900 mm x 2100 mm) or smaller, 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) maximum.
Larger sizes not addressed by this standard.
T-3: Squareness
All four corners of a door shall be square (right angles). Also, the length of the diagonal measurement on the face of the door from the upper right
corner to the lower left corner shall be within 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) of the length of the diagonal from the upper left corner to the lower right corner.
29
T-4: Sanding
Sanding is checked for compliance by sanding a sample piece of the same species with the required grit of abrasive.
 A product is sanded sufficiently smooth when knife cuts are removed and any remaining sanding marks are or will be concealed by applied
finishing coats.
 Handling marks and/or grain raising due to moisture or humidity in excess of the ranges set forth in this standard shall not be considered as a
defect.
T-5: Joint Gaps

Maximum gaps between exposed components shall be tested with a feeler gauge at points designed to join where members contact or touch. Joints
length shall be measured with a ruler with minimum 1/16 inch (1 mm) divisions and calculations made accordingly.
30
CONSTRUCTION
General
Solid Core Doors are customarily manufactured 1-3/4 inches (44 mm) thick; however, other thicknesses are available, such as 1-3/8 inches (35 mm),
2 inches (50 mm) and 2-1/4 inches (57 mm).
Hollow Core Doors are customarily manufactured 1-3/8 inches (35 mm) and 1-3/4 inches (44 mm) thick; however, other thicknesses are available.
C-1: Face Requirements

Veneers for Transparent Finishes:
Specie and grade shall be specified. In the absence of grade specifications, Custom grade will be furnished. All face veneers for transparent finish to
meet requirements of Sections A-3 through A-8.
Face Materials for Opaque Finishes:
Medium Density Overlay (MDO), Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF), High Density Fiberboard (HDF) or other high-density surface. These
surfaces provide the optimum finishing surface for Premium grade doors.
Custom Grade Doors:
Closed grain hardwood veneer, Medium Density Overlay (MDO), Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF or other high-density surface. When using
hardwood veneer, extra preparation is required prior to job site finishing because of the natural characteristics of wood. Crossbands are not
required under hardboard or composite surfaces.
Door Skin Construction:

When wood veneer is used for all plies in door skins of Premium and Custom grade doors, the veneer shall be adhered to material with alternating
(perpendicular) grain direction and provide for balanced construction. Door skins are also permitted to be constructed using composite crossbands,
and are typically manufactured as 2-ply.
Materials for Laminate Faces:
High Pressure Decorative Laminates (HPDL) must meet minimum requirements of National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)
Standard LD 3, High-Pressure Decorative Laminates.
Low Pressure Decorative Laminates (LPDL) must meet the minimum requirements of the LMA (Laminating Materials Association, Inc.)
Voluntary Product Standards and Typical Physical Properties of Decorative Overlays.
C-2: Crossbanding Requirements

Crossbanding is permitted to be wood veneer, or engineered wood products (composites).
C-3: Core Requirements

Below is a list of general core constructions used in wood flush doors. Other core can be used, providing the final door construction meets or
exceeds the performance duty levels specified in Section P-1.
Particleboard Core (PC):
Wood fiber and/or agri-fiber based materials that comply with standard ANSI A208.1
Medium Density Fiberboard Core (MDFC):
Wood fiber and/or agri-fiber based materials that comply with ANSI A208.2.
Structural Composite Lumber Core (SCLC): An engineered wood product made by fusing a network of wood strands together with a
water-resistant adhesive to produce a strong, solid and stable product
Staved Lumber Core (SLC):
Any combination of blocks or strips, not more than 2-1/2 inches (64 mm) wide, of one specie of wood glued together (in butcher block fashion) with
joints staggered in adjacent rows
31
Laminated Veneer Lumber Core (LVLC):
Manufactured by laminating veneer with all grain laid-up parallel, using various species of wood fiber in various thicknesses.
Fire Resistant Composite Core (FD):
Fire resistant composite core for fire doors per manufacturer's label service listing.
Hollow Core (HC):
Often made of expanded honeycomb made of corrugated fiberboard. The material and arrangement of interior core support items are intended to
prevent telegraphing in compliance with Section T-1. Consult individual manufacturers for additional options.
Special Core Types:
Special core constructions applicable for Sound Resistant (STC), Lead Lined (X-ray) and Bullet Resistant doors. Consult individual manufacturers for
details.
C-4: Edge Requirements

Solid Core Doors
Vertical Edges (Stiles):
 Wood or composite material, one piece, laminated, or veneered.
 Specific configuration per manufacturer's standard.
 Minimum requirements are established in Section C-11 and Section A-9.
 Finger joints are not permitted in Premium grade. One finger joint is permitted in Custom grade at each vertical edge that is tight, not raised,
uniform in color and grain, without discoloration, and is not visible at a distance of 4 feet (1.2 m).
 Veneer backing other than hardwood must be of a material that has been qualified in accordance with WDMA TM-15 Vertical Edge Impact
Test Method.
Horizontal Edges (Rails):

 Wood or composite material meeting the minimum requirements of Section C-11 and Section A-9.
 End rail matching to stiles must be specified if required.
 Veneer backing other than hardwood must be of a material that has been qualified in accordance with WDMA TM-15 Vertical Edge Impact
Test Method.
Hollow Core Doors

Vertical Edges (Stiles):
 Wood or composite material, one piece, laminated, or veneered. Specific configuration per manufacturer's standard.
 Minimum requirements are established in Section C-11 and Section A-9.
 Finger joints are not permitted in Premium grade. One finger joint is permitted in Custom grade at each vertical edge that is tight, not raised,
uniform in color and grain, without discoloration, and is not visible at a distance of 4 feet (1.2 m).
Horizontal Edges (Rails):

 Wood or composite material, meeting the minimum requirements of Section C-11 and Section A-9.
 End rail matching to stiles must be specified if required.
C-5: Vertical and Horizontal Edge/Core Interface

There are two types of interface between the core and the edges in solid core doors:
Bonded: Vertical and horizontal edges of solid core doors must be securely bonded to the core with adhesives.
Non-Bonded: Vertical and horizontal edges are not bonded to the core material. The maximum gap between core and vertical and/or horizontal
edges is to be 1/32 inch (0.8 mm). Core and adjacent edging component thickness tolerance is +/- 0.005 inch (0.13 mm).
C-6: Adhesives
Glue lines for face veneer assembly, between the various plies of the face, between the facing and core assembly, and between edging and core in
bonded core assemblies must be either Type I or Type II that meet the requirements specified in WDMA TM-6 Adhesive Bond Durability Test
Method.
32
C-7: Construction Details
The following are illustrations of the most common meeting edge, dutch door, transom meeting edge, glazing, louver, wood bead and blocking
options that are available. Consult individual manufacturers for additional options.
Meeting Edge
Specify by number
E1: One Bevel E2: Two Bevel E3 Flat Astragal E4: Tee Astragal
(bevel active leaf) (one or two bevel) (one or two bevel)
E5: Rabbeted E6: Parallel Bevel E7: Metal Edge Guard (bevel) E8: Metal Edge Guard
(bevel or square) (double egress) & Astragal (inactive edge
(bevel or square) may be square)
Dutch Door
Specify by number
D1: One-Side Shelf D2: Two-Side Shelf D3: Non Rabbeted D4: Non-Rabbeted D5: Rabbeted
with side shelf
Transom Meeting Edge
Specify by number
T1: T2: Non-

T3: Astragal T4: Transom Bar
Rabbeted Rabbeted
Illustrations on this page, except for Option E1, Option T3 and Option T4, reprinted with permission from the Architectural W oodwork Institute, Reston, Virginia
33
Glazing
Specify by number
W or M W or M W or M W or M W or M W or M W or M W or M W or M W or M W or W or M
1010 812 616 520 425 333 630 2830 636 836 M1836 1654
W = Wood Moulding
M = Metal Moulding
Number indicates size. For example, 2830 is 28 inches wide x 30 inches high (711 mm x 762 mm)
Generally, cutouts in fire rated doors for metal or wood vision panels are a minimum of 5-1/2 inches (140 mm) from the vertical edge of the door or
other cutouts; for non-fire rated doors, the distance is most commonly 5 inches (127 mm). Dimensions may vary depending on construction or
manufacturer’s warranty. Using a 10 inch margin between the edge of the door and the edge of any vision lite cutout near the lock area will eliminate
most label and warranty conflicts.
Louver
Specify by number*
WL or FL 1212 WL or FL 1812 WL or FL 2412 WL or FL 2418 WL or FL 2424
L3: Chevrons, L4: Chevrons,

L1: Slats, wood L2: Slats, wood L5: Fusible Link
wood metal
WL = Wood Louver
FL = Fusible Link Louver
Number indicates size. For example, 2412 is 24 in. (X mm) wide x 12 in. (Y mm) high.
Louvers are not allowed in means-of-egress fire doors per NFPA 80. Generally, fusible link louvers installed in 45, 60, and 90 minute fire rated doors
must comply with individual fire door authorities and ADA requirements. Dimensions may vary depending on construction or manufacturer’s warranty
Illustrations on this page, except for Option M3, reprinted with permission from the Architectural Woodwork Institute, Reston, Virginia
34
Wood Bead Options
Specify by number
M1 M2:
Flush/Recessed Flush/Recessed
M3: Lip Bead M4: Metal Vision M5: Lip Bead
Bead (includes Bead (includes
Frame
both fully flush and both fully flush and
recessed styles) recessed styles)
See Section C-11 for matching requirements.

Specify transparent or opaque finish.
Bead shall be free of open defects, shake, splits, or doze.
Bead must be smooth and free of visible knife, saw, or sanding marks when viewed at a distance of 3 ft. (0.9 m) for premium grade and 6 ft. (1.8 m)
for custom grade.
Some variances may occur in the fit of flush-type bead due to door thickness, moulding width and glazing material thickness. The glazier is
responsible for the aesthetic appearance of the lite opening
Blocking (Reinforcement) Options

Specify by letter, location and dimension.
HB1 HB2 HB3 HB4 HB5 HB6 HB7 HB8
35
C-8: Fire Doors
Fire Door Ratings and Openings Classification
The Model Codes have established a fire door rating system for door assemblies that protect openings in fire resistant rated wall constructions. In
1997, the International Council of Building Officials (ICBO) approved a change to the Uniform Building Code (UBC) that requires fire doors to be
tested under positive pressure instead of neutral pressure. Many states and local jurisdictions across the U.S. have adopted the International
Building Code (IBC) which also contains the requirement for positive pressure.
It is very important that architects, contractors and distributors are aware of the requirements in their area so the appropriate type of door is supplied
(neutral or positive pressure). Door manufacturers are not responsible for interpretations of local codes.
All fire doors must meet the requirements of recognized fire door tests and bear certifying labels of an independent testing agency approved by the
building official.
Installation is required to be in accordance with the National Fire Protection Association’s Publication NFPA 80, Standard for Fire Doors and Other
Opening Protectives. Machined fire doors shall be provided with detailed installation instructions when doors bear a label indicating compliance to UL
10B or UL 10C.
Requirements for fire ratings and neutral or positive pressure depend upon local codes; door manufacturers are not responsible for interpretations of
local code requirements.
Important Facts to Consider When Reading Specifications
Key phrases indicating Key phrases indicating negative (neutral) Phrases that don’t indicate either positive
positive pressure pressure or negative pressure
 UBC 7-2-1997 – UBC Fire Test  UL 10B – Fire Test  NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code
 International Building Code (IBC)  UBC 7-2-1994 – UBC Fire Test  NFPA 105 – Standard for the Installation
 NFPA 5000 – Building Construction and  UBC 43-2 – UBC Fire Test of Smoke Door Assemblies and Other
Safety Code  Tested at atmospheric pressure Opening Protectives
 UL 10C – Fire Test  Neutral pressure  NFPA 252 – Fire Test method which
 After 5 minutes into the test the neutral  Negative pressure gives the option to be positive or negative
pressure plane should be at 40 inches   UBC – With no date given could be either
 Shall meet positive pressure positive or negative
requirements  UL 1784 – Air Leakage Test for Door
 Intumescent seals – not telling you it is Assemblies
positive pressure but implying that it is.  NFPA 80 – Installation standard for fire
doors
There are two categories of doors available for positive pressure fire openings.
Category A doors require no additional edge-sealing system. Doors included in this category have been evaluated without intumescent on either the
frame or door, or the door has intumescent incorporated into the door by the door manufacturer.
Category B doors require additional edge-sealing system. Doors included in this category have been evaluated with intumescent applied to the
surface frame, or incorporated into the frame by the frame manufacturer. Refer to the manufacturer’s listings or installation instructions for meeting
edge requirements, which may not require a field applied edge sealing system. Refer to the individual door listing and Category G, Edge-Sealing
Systems for individual manufacturer's requirements.
Smoke and Draft Control Rating [S] (Category H)
Many positive pressure openings will also require a smoke seal. An “S” label requirement indicates the opening needs to have Smoke and Draft
Control Gasketing. Category H includes gasket systems that are surface-applied to the perimeter of the door or frame. They may be kerf applied,
adhesive backed or mechanically attached. It includes gasketing for the meeting edges. This category covers gasket systems that have been
evaluated for use in positive pressure rated assemblies but generally do not provide an edge-sealing system to the opening as described below.
Edge-Sealing Systems (Category G)
Category G includes field applied systems only. Category G Edge-Sealing Systems are for use on Category B doors, or meeting edges (only) of
Category A doors. These systems are surface-applied to either the perimeter of the door or frame, or meeting edge of the door. They may be kerf-
applied, adhesive-backed, or mechanically fastened.
36
Door Specification Descriptors
Section D-1 lists the different types of flush door constructions available in the industry. Fire rated flush doors for positive pressure openings are
designated with the “PP” suffix. Stile and Rail doors as described by WDMA I.S. 6A are also available for positive pressure openings based on
specific manufacturer’s approvals.
Labeling and Listing
The U.S. model building codes require fire doors to be labeled. The label indicates the rating and is a permanent identifying mark attached to the
door. Labeling on the door indicates compliance with the requirements of the certification organization. In addition to the door, the door frame,
glazing and hardware are required to be labeled for use with a specific fire door. NFPA 80 requires that all fire doors must be self-closing and self-
latching.
C-9: Special Function Doors

Sound Resistant (STC)
Sound Resistant Doors are specified by the Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings as determined by ASTM E-90 and ASTM E413. These doors
are certified by the manufacturer with regard to their sound resistance. The assigned STC rating shall reflect the operable value. To ensure
acceptable sound resistance of the door, specifications shall indicate the operable STC rating that is required. Specifiers should be aware that in
order to incorporate acoustical materials, door thickness may exceed nominal 1-3/4 inches (44mm). Consult manufacturer for details of actual door
thickness, gasketing, automatic door seals, thresholds, frames or hardware which may be required.
Lead Lined (X-ray)
Lead Lined doors are usually manufactured with a Particleboard, Structural Composite Lumber, or Staved Lumber Core and have continuous lead
sheet(s) from edge to edge in the center of the door or between the crossbanding and the core. The total thickness of the lead sheet(s) determines
the shield rating. Various thicknesses of lead sheets are available.
Thickness Corresponding Weight
1/32 inch (0.8 mm) 2 lb. (0.9 kg)
1/16 inch (1.6 mm) 4 lb. (1.8 kg)
1/8 inch (3.2 mm) 8 lb. (3.6 kg)
3/16 inch (4.8 mm) 12 lb. (5.4 kg)
1/4 inch (6.4 mm) 16 lb. (7.3 kg)
Bullet Resistant
Bullet resistant doors are manufactured with special ballistic rated materials within the core assembly. They are available to meet or exceed
protection levels defined in UL 752 or NIJ. 0108.01 performance standards. When specifying bullet resistant doors, identify what protection level is
required.
C-10: Environmental Doors

Many manufacturers are capable of producing doors that can qualify for environmental attributes. Check with the door manufacturer to determine
how their door products can contribute.
37
C-11: Face, Edge, Moulding and Transom Matching Standards
ANSI/WDMA I.S.1A Minimum Aesthetic Standards for Wood Veneer Faced Doors
Transparent Finish Opaque Finish Transparent Finish Opaque Finish
AA grade Veneer(A grade faces Closed-grain hardwood
Veneer Face
for Western Red Alder, White MDO, MDF, HDF or other A grade Veneer* veneer, MDO, MDF, HDF
Pine, Douglas Fir and Redwood) high-density surface Edge glued joints or other high-density
Edge glued joints surface
Veneer Match Book (default), Slip or Book (default), Slip or
N/A N/A
Random Match Random Match
Veneer Face Assembly Center Balance. Outer leaves
(default) not less than 1/2 inch narrower N/A Running N/A
than other leaves
Other face assembly options are
available, but must be specified.
Optional Face Assembly Other face assembly options are
N/A If Center Balance, outer leaves N/A
available, but must be specified
not less than 1 inch narrower
than other leaves,
Compatible Specie to Veneer Closed Grain Hardwood,
Same Specie as Veneer Face** Closed Grain Hardwood, Face Veneer, MDO or MDF
Vertical Edges
Solid or Veneered Veneer, MDO or MDF One finger joint allowed if not One finger joint allowed if not
(Visible Surface)
No Joints No Joints visible from a distance of 4 feet visible from a distance of 4 feet
(1.2 m) (1.2 m)
Sanding See Section T-4
Shall not exceed 0.012 inch (0.3 mm) in width at flat surfaces, nor Shall not exceed 0.025 inch (0.65 mm) in width at flat surfaces, nor
Joint Gaps, T5
more than 0.025 inch (0.65 mm) at shaped surfaces. more than 0.050 inch (1.3 mm) at shaped surfaces.
Same Specie as Veneer Face** Compatible Specie to Veneer
Closed Grain Hardwood. Closed Grain Hardwood
Wood Mouldings Solid or Veneered, or the same Face
Solid or Veneered, or the same Solid or Veneered, or the same
Lites, Louvers, etc. material as the face Solid or Veneered, or the same
material as the face material as the face
No Joints material as the face
Pair/Set Match Well matched for color and grain N/A Compatible for color and grain N/A
Door/Transoms Continuous Match*** N/A Continuous or End Match N/A
Transom Meeting Edges Same Specie as Door Face Closed Grain Hardwood Compatible Specie to Door Face Closed Grain Hardwood
(Full width of door/transom) Solid or Veneered Solid or Veneered Solid or Veneered Solid or Veneered
* AA Grade balanced match shall be permitted to be specified when adjacent to AA grade millwork or as otherwise required.
** Birch faced doors shall be permitted to use compatible species edges, lites, and moulding due to scarcity of birch lumber.
*** If not restricted by veneer length availability.
ANSI/WDMA I.S.1A Minimum Aesthetic Standards for Laminate Faced Doors

Finish Type Woodgrains Solid Colors or Patterns Woodgrains Solid Colors or Patterns
High Pressure Decorative
Meets or exceeds NEMA LD-3 Meets or exceeds NEMA LD-3 Meets or exceeds NEMA LD-3 Meets or exceeds NEMA LD-3
Laminate Face
Meets or exceeds LMA Meets or exceeds LMA Meets or exceeds LMA Meets or exceeds LMA
Low Pressure Decorative
requirements requirements requirements requirements
Laminate Face
for Saturated Papers for Saturated Papers for Saturated Papers for Saturated Papers
Pairs and Sets Matching not available N/A Matching not available N/A
Matching HPDL or PVC or Matching HPDL or PVC or Matching HPDL or PVC or Matching HPDL or PVC or
Vertical edges Compatible Species Closed Grain Hardwood Compatible Species Closed Grain Hardwood
(visible surface) Solid Lumber or Veneered Solid Lumber or Veneered Solid Lumber or Veneered Solid Lumber or Veneered
Transparent (stain) Finish (a) Paint Finish (b) Transparent (stain) Finish (a) Paint Finish (b)
Compatible Species Closed Grain Hardwood Compatible Species Closed Grain Hardwood
Wood Mouldings
Solid Lumber or Veneered Solid Lumber or Veneered Solid Lumber or Veneered Solid Lumber or Veneered
(lites, louvers, etc.)
Door and Transom Grain Door and Transom Grain
Doors/Transoms N/A N/A
Continuous Match (c) Continuous Match (c)
Transom Meeting Edges
Matching HPDL or PVC Matching HPDL or PVC Matching HPDL or PVC Matching HPDL or PVC
(full width of door/transom)
Options for transom bottom edge. Must be specified if desired.
Optional bottom edge:
Compatible Species with Close Grain Hardwood with Compatible Species with Close Grain Hardwood with
for transoms option T1 & T2
(full width of door/transom)
Note: a. Species and transparent (stain) finish for edges and wood mouldings to be approved by architect.
b. Paint finish to match laminate color or harmonize with patterns.
c. Up to a total assembly height of 144 inches.
38
C-12: Door Construction Details
Wood Veneer Particleboard Core
PC-5 Bonded PC-7 Bonded
FPC-5 Non-Bonded FPC-7 Non-Bonded
Top and Bottom Horizontal Edges:

Wood or composite material meeting the minimum requirements per Section C-11 and Section A-9.
End rail species matching to stiles must be specified if required.
Vertical Edges:
Wood or composite material, one piece, laminated, or veneered. Specific configuration per
manufacturer's standard. Minimum requirements per Section C-11 and Section A-9. Finger joints are
not permitted in Premium grade. One finger joint is permitted in Custom grade at each veneer edge
that is tight, not raised, uniform in color and grain, without discoloration, and is not visible at a
distance of 4 feet (1.2 m).
Core:
Particleboard: Wood fiber and/or agri-fiber based materials that comply with standard ANSI
A208.1, minimum grade LD-1. LD-2 or other core can be used, providing the final door
construction meets or exceeds the performance duty levels specified in Section P-1.
Medium Density Fiberboard: Wood fiber and/or agri-fiber based materials that comply with
ANSI A208.2.
Core Edge Interface:
Bonded: Vertical and horizontal edges of solid core doors must be securely bonded to the core
with adhesives
Non-Bonded: Vertical and horizontal edges are not bonded to the core material. The maximum
gap between core and vertical and/or horizontal edges to be 1/32 inch (0.8 mm). Core and
adjacent edging component thickness tolerance is +/- 0.005 inch (0.13 mm) to achieve minimal
telegraphing per T-1.
Back Veneer: (3-ply skin)
Crossband:
Crossbanding may be wood veneer, or engineered wood products (composites).
Veneer Face:
Face veneer meeting requirements per Section C-1.
Wood Veneer Fire Resistant Composite Core

FD-45-5, 60-5, 90-5 FD-45-7, 60-7, 90-7
FD-45PP-5, 60PP-5, 90PP-5 FD-45PP-7, 60PP-7, 90PP-7

Special construction per label service listing.
Vertical Edges:
Core:
Fire resistant composite core per manufacturer’s label service listing.
with adhesives
Crossband:
May vary according to manufacturer’s label service listing.
Veneer Face:
Illustrations on this page reprinted with permission from the Architectural Woodwork Institute, Reston, Virginia
39
HPDL Particleboard Core
PC-HPDL-3 Bonded PC-HPDL-5 Bonded
FPC-HPDL-5 Non-Bonded
FPC-HPDL-3 Non-Bonded

Wood or composite material meeting the minimum requirements per Section C-11 and Section A-9.
Vertical Edges:
Core:
Particleboard: Wood fiber and/or agri-fiber based materials that comply with standard ANSI
A208.1, minimum grade LD-1. LD-2 or other core can be used, providing the final door
construction meets or exceeds the performance duty levels specified in Section P-1.
Medium Density Fiberboard: Wood fiber and/or agri-fiber based materials that comply with
ANSI A208.2.
with adhesives
Crossband:
Laminate Face:
High-pressure decorative laminates (HPDL) must meet minimum requirements of NEMA LD 3
Low Pressure Decorative Laminates (LPDL) must meet the minimum requirements of the LMA
HPDL Fire Resistant Composite Core

FD-45-HPDL-3, 60-3, 90-3 FD-45-HPDL-5, 60-5, 90-5
FD-45PP-HPDL-3, 60PP-3, 90PP-3 FD-45PP-HPDL-5, 60PP-5, 90PP-5

Vertical Edges:
Core:
Fire resistant composite core per manufacturer’s label service listing.
with adhesives
Crossband:
May vary according to manufacturer’s label service listing.
Laminate Face:
40
C-12
Wood Veneer Structural Composite Lumber Core

SCLC-5 Bonded SCLC-7 Bonded
FSCLC-7 Non-Bonded
FSCLC-5 Non-Bonded
Vertical Edges:
Core:
An engineered wood product that is made by fusing a network of wood strands together with a water-
resistant adhesive to produce a strong, solid and stable product .
Bonded: Vertical edges of solid core doors must be securely bonded to the core with adhesives
Non-Bonded: Vertical edges are not bonded to the core material. The maximum gap between
core and vertical edges to be 1/32 inch (0.8 mm). Core and adjacent edging component
thickness tolerance is +/- 0.005 inch (0.13 mm) to achieve minimal telegraphing per T-1.
Crossband:
Veneer Face:
Wood Veneer Staved Lumber Core

SLC-5 Bonded SLC-7 Bonded
FSLC-5 Non-Bonded FSLC-7 Non-Bonded

Wood or composite material meeting the minimum requirements per Section C-11 and Section A-9,
End rail matching to stiles must be specified if required.
Vertical Edges:
Core:
Made with any combination of blocks or strips, not more than 2-1/2 inches (64 mm) wide, of one
species of wood glued together with joints staggered in adjacent rows.
with adhesives
Crossband:
Veneer Face:
41
HPDL Structural Composite Lumber Core
SCLC-HPDL-3 Bonded SCLC-HPDL-5 Bonded
FSCLC-HPDL-5 Non-Bonded
FSCLC-HPDL-3 Non-Bonded
Vertical Edges:
Core:
An engineered wood product that is made by fusing a network of wood strands together with a water-
resistant adhesive to produce a strong, solid and stable product that has true structural properties
with excellent screw holding properties and very high split resistance.
with adhesives
Non-Bonded: Vertical edges are not bonded to the core material. The maximum gap between
core and vertical edges to be 1/32 inch (0.8 mm). Core and adjacent edging component
thickness tolerance is +/- 0.005 inch (0.13 mm) to achieve minimal telegraphing per T-1.
Crossband:
Laminate Face:
HPDL Staved Lumber Core

SLC-HPDL-5 Bonded
FSLC-HPDL-5 Non-Bonded
Wood or composite material meeting the minimum requirements per Section C-11 and Section A-9,
Vertical Edges:
Core:
Made with any combination of blocks or strips, not more than 2-1/2 inches (64 mm) wide, of one
species of wood glued together (in butcher block fashion_) with joints staggered in adjacent rows.
with adhesives
Crossband:
Laminate Face:
42
Wood Veneer Hollow Core
FIHC-5 or FIHC-7 FSHC-7
Standard
Institutional

Wood or composite material, meeting the minimum requirements per Section C-11 and Section A-9.
Vertical Edges:
Core:
Often made of expanded honeycomb made of corrugated fiberboard (illustrated). Consult individual
manufacturers for additional options. The material and arrangement of interior core support items are
intended to prevent telegraphing in compliance with Section T-1.
Blocking Reinforcement
Midrail
Crossband:
Veneer Face:
HPDL Hollow Core

FSHC-HPDL-7
FIHC-HPDL-5
Standard
Institutional
Wood or composite material, meeting the minimum requirements per Section C-11 and Section A-9.
Vertical Edges:
Core:
Often made of expanded honeycomb made of corrugated fiberboard (illustrated). Consult individual
manufacturers for additional options. The material and arrangement of interior core support items are
intended to prevent telegraphing in compliance with Section T-1.
Blocking Reinforcement
Midrail
Crossband:
Laminate Face:
43
FINISHING
General
Finishes described in this Section are intended for interior applications only. Finishes protect wood from moisture, handling, and harsh chemicals.
The sooner moisture is restricted from entering or leaving, the longer wood lasts and the finer it looks. It should be noted, however, that finishing only
retards moisture penetration, it will not prevent it. .
Transparent finishes allow the substrate to remain visible. Transparent finishes provide the architect or designer an opportunity to create a striking
visual effect by modifying the color, look, and sheen of the door. Opaque finishes protect the wood and provide a solid color painted appearance.
A finish shall be applied to flush wood doors in the controlled environment of the door manufacturer's plant, or it shall be applied in the field by a
painting contractor.
The majority of architectural wood doors are now finished at the factory as opposed to the jobsite. It is highly recommended that specifications
require factory finishing to achieve the best overall door appearance and durability.
F-1: Factory Finishing

Factory finishing is generally specified when a project requires high quality performance and superior appearance. Factory finishing offers many
benefits.
 Factory finishing utilizes state-of-the-art equipment in a dust-free environment provides uniform color, texture, and sheen - conditions normally
unavailable in the field.
 Often in field finishing, numerous limitations prevent proper sanding. If improperly sanded, a door lacks the clarity of finish and uniformity of color
that is achieved by factory finishing.
 Factory finishing provides adequate drying time in a dust free environment.
 Door manufacturing facilities are subject to strict State and Federal environmental standards which result in the proper handling, application, and
disposal of finishing materials. Specifying factory finish improves environmental compliance.
 Factory finishing ensures that wood is protected from unfavorable moisture conditions at the earliest possible time.
 In most cases, the cost of factory finishing is lower than the cost of using a separate finishing contractor.
 Factory finished doors can immediately be installed after delivery, which means faster project completion.
F-2: Finish Selection

Normally, door manufacturers will only supply their standard finishing system. The factory finishing information provided by the specified door
manufacturer should be consulted before specifying the type and extent of finishing desired.
Section P1 of this standard identifies varying minimum finish systems for doors based on their performance duty level. However, many door
manufacturers supply a TR-6/OP-6 or TR-8/OP-8 finish system as their standard finish regardless of duty level. These systems provide the highest
levels of wear and chemical resistance at an economical cost. Other systems are available, based on individual door manufacturer’s processes and
policies.
Non-standard stain colors to match architect's selection are available from most manufacturers. Some manufacturers may offer more than one finish
system or grain textures (i.e., open grain or filled grain). Specifying non-standard finishes may increase the cost over standard finishes. Should
special door finishes be desired, they must be fully described in the specifications.
Since appearance and other finish characteristics are somewhat subjective, just the selection of a finishing system does not ensure that the final
finish will be acceptable. Selection of a finish should be based on physical samples provided by the door manufacturer.
44
F-3: Finish System Descriptions
A variety of wood finishes are available, from single stains to multi-step processes. When selecting a finish, consider the desired appearance,
exposure, and maintenance it will require.
By identifying a particular finish system, an expectation of performance characteristics for the factory finish is established. There are eight finishing
systems that are commonly referenced for architectural wood flush doors. These are:
TR-2 & OP-2 (Catalyzed Lacquer)
TR-4 & OP-4 (Conversion Varnish)
TR-6 & OP-6 (Catalyzed Polyurethanes)
…..TR-8 & OP-8 (UV Cured Acrylated Polyester/Urethanes)
The performance levels established by specifying one of these systems are found in the table located in Section F-7. Finish performance levels can
also be specified by referencing the duty level identified in this same table. Unless otherwise specified, manufacturers will furnish their standard
finish system.
This standard is not an attempt to identify all available finish systems, or to limit the types of finishes which may be offered by door manufacturers.
Other formulations may exhibit similar performance characteristics as the systems described in this Section, but must meet or exceed the
performance levels for the system specified to be considered as equal. Also, the listing of a finish system in this standard does not imply compliance
with the requirement of Local and/or Federal Environmental Protection Agencies.
Finishes are available in different bases and curing methods. The basic types are solvent, water reducible or ultra violet cure. Solvent bases cure by
the evaporation of volatile organic compounds (VOC's) into the atmosphere and their use is regulated by environmental agencies. Water base
systems evaporate water for curing. Ultra violet (UV) finishes are cured using light to create a chemical reaction within the finishing material. UV
finishes are typically the most environmentally friendly of the systems used for architectural door production finishing.
Common finishing systems used by many door manufacturers are described below. "TR" indicates a transparent finish, while "OP" indicates an
opaque finish.
TR-2 & OP-2 Catalyzed Lacquer
Catalyzed lacquer systems contain an ingredient for faster drying and harder film. They have the strength and higher solids of conversion coatings.
Vinyl lacquer systems are catalyzed lacquers that have a vinyl resin rather than a nitrocellulose base.
TR-4 & OP-4 Conversion Varnish
Conversion varnish is a high solids catalyzed alkyd based coating, offering high resistance to chemicals, moisture, and scratches. Similar in
composition to catalyzed lacquer, except for nitrocellulose, the solids in this finish make it economical; one coat of conversion varnish can equal two
coats of lacquer. Conversion varnishes are also available in waterborne formulations.
TR-6 & OP-6 Catalyzed Polyurethane
Catalyzed polyurethanes have higher solids content than lacquers and provide high build and excellent hardness, providing one of the highest
chemical wear and impact resistance ratings of all available finishes. These finishes are very durable and offer excellent chemical, mar, and impact
resistance. Many door manufacturers provide a catalyzed polyurethane system that is cured using ultraviolet (UV) technology.
TR-8 & OP-8 UV Cured Acrylated Polyester/Urethane
Since polyesters have strong filling, build, leveling, and hardness traits, they can be combined with polyurethanes to achieve high gloss and
endurance. This finish system excels in appearance, burnish, texture, and overall durability and is the highest rated performance of all the standard
door finishes
45
F-4: Sample Submission
Door manufacturers shall provide standard colors for selection.
To specify non-standard colors and sheens, the architect is to provide two or more samples at least 8 inches x 8 inches (200 x 200 mm) showing the
desired effect on the wood species and cut of veneer to be used.
Samples are to bear identification of the project and door supplier. The door manufacturer shall be permitted to submit samples in sets of two or
more, illustrating the possible range of variations. Exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet light will cause changes in wood by accelerating bleaching and
oxidation. Approved finish samples must be covered and protected from effects of light during the period between approval and delivery of the
finished doors.
Variations in color and appearance can be expected due to the nature of wood. Barber pole effect in book matched veneers is not a defect, but is a
result of tight and loose sides of veneer created during the slicing process. This can affect color from veneer leaf to veneer leaf within a door face
because of light reflection and stain absorption.
Color variation from door to door due to veneers from different logs, color variation within veneers from the same log, and variations from heartwood
and sapwood, can also cause differences in appearance from door to door and are acceptable in standard door grades. Specification of uniform
color and grain or flitch selection can narrow color variation.
Some veneers are susceptible to grain variations (typically end grain) which can cause a blotchy or uneven color appearance. The darker the stain,
the more prevalent the variation can be. Veneers that are more likely to exhibit this effect are Birch and Maple, although it can present itself in any
species. Proper sanding can reduce, but not entirely eliminate, the contrast in color.
F-5: Job Site Finishing

Because of the many uncontrollable variables that exist at a job site, such as temperature, dust and other factors, door manufacturers' warranties do
not cover the appearance of finishes applied in the field. See Section J1 for information on field finishing.
F-6: Visual Inspection Standards

Architectural flush door faces sometimes require touch up due to natural, manufacturing or installation marks. The chart below outlines the allowable
defects based on visual inspection from a described distance.
Factory finished doors must be final inspected in the vertical position, at the opening,
viewed under lighting identical to final job site conditions, prior to installation.
Defect Type Premium Grade Custom Grade
Glue Spots Not permitted Not permitted
Fine Sanding Scratches Not permitted Not noticeable at 3 feet (0.9 m)
Finish runs, orange peel, blisters, blushing, cracking, sags or checking Not permitted Not permitted
Filled holes or splits Not noticeable at 3 feet (0.9 m) Not noticeable at 6 feet (1.8 m)
Repair or touch-up Not noticeable at 3 feet (0.9 m) Not noticeable at 6 feet (1.8 m)
46
F-7: Standard Wood Door Finishing System Ratings
The ratings described in the following chart indicate overall performance scores to provide the specifier with a guide to select the system that meets
the resistance needs of the project. These systems are those typically available from architectural door manufacturers. Other systems may be
available upon request, subject to individual manufacturer’s capabilities. Specify system number and chemical description for clarity, i.e., TR-6
Catalyzed Polyurethane.
SYSTEM NAME / NUMBER

UV Cured Acrylated
CHEMICAL / WEAR Catalyzed Lacquer Conversion Varnish Catalyzed Polyurethane
Polyester/Urethane
Transparent Opaque Transparent Opaque Transparent Opaque Transparent Opaque
TR-2 OP-2 TR-4 OP-4 TR-6 OP-6 TR-8 OP-8
Vinegar 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Lemon Juice 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Orange Juice 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Catsup 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Coffee 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Olive Oil 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Boiling Water 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Cold Water 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Nail Polish Remover 3 3 4 4 4 4 5 5
Household Ammonia 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
VM&P Naphtha 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Isopropyl Alcohol 3 3 5 5 5 5 5 5
Wine 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Windex TM 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5
409 Cleaner TM 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5
Lysol TM 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
33% Sulfuric Acid 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
77% Sulfuric Acid 3 3 1 1 4 4 4 4
28% Ammonium Hydroxide 3 3 5 5 5 5 5 5
Gasoline 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Murphy's Oil Soap TM 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Vodka 100 Proof 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
1% Detergent 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
10% TSP 5 5 4 4 5 5 5 5
TOTAL 110 110 114 114 118 118 119 119
Wear Index 4 3 5 5 5 4 5 4
Cold Check 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
Adhesion 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
SCORE 124 123 129 129 133 132 134 133
The chemical and wear resistance characteristics of these eight standard door finishing systems were evaluated in an ISO 9000 certified laboratory using the following ASTM test
criteria: Chemical Resistance Testing - ASTM D1308; Wear Index - Abrasion Resistance Testing - ASTM D4060; Cold Check Resistance - ASTM D1211; Cross Hatch Adhesion -
ASTM D3359. Base line data for application prior to testing: A - 45 - 55% humidity at 70 - 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 - 26 degrees Celsius); B - Water borne coatings must be cured in a
dehumidified atmosphere and can be assisted with Infrared light and good air movement.
Performance indicator numbers on the Standard Wood Door Finishing Systems chart are used, with the following definitions:
For Chemical Resistance and Wear Index - Abrasion Resistance:
5 - No effect from the test
4 - Minimal effect or slight change and little repair required
3 - Some effect, noticeable change and the coating will recover with minimal repairs
2 - Moderate effect, performance adversely affected and repairs required
1 - Poor performance and film failure is imminent and repairs difficult
For Cross Hatch Adhesion
5 - Edges of the cuts are completely smooth; none of the squares of the lattice is detached
4 - Small flakes of the coating are detached at intersections; less than 5% of the area is affected
3 - Small flakes of the coating are detached along edges and at intersections of cuts; 5 to 15% of the area is affected
2 - Coating has flaked along the edges and on parts of the squares; 15 to 35% of the area is affected
1 - Coating has flaked along the edges of the cuts in large ribbons and whole squares have detached; 35 to 65% of the area is affected.
47
JOB SITE INFORMATION
HOW TO STORE, HANDLE, FINISH, INSTALL AND MAINTAIN WOOD DOORS
CARE AND INSTALLATION AT JOB SITE

To preserve the fine qualities of wood doors and a lifetime of superior service, proper storage, handling, finishing and installation is very important.
The following guidelines will help to maintain the high quality products supplied by wood door manufacturers.
STORAGE AND HANDLING
1. Store doors flat on a level surface in a dry, well-ventilated building. Doors should not come in contact with water. Doors should be kept at least 4
in. (102 mm) off the floor with cross supports and should have protective coverings under the bottom door and over the top. Covering should protect
doors from dirt, water and abuse but allow for air circulation under and around the stack.
2. Avoid exposure of interior doors to direct sunlight. Certain species (e.g., cherry, mahogany, walnut, and teak) in an unfinished state are more
susceptible to discoloration if exposed to sunlight or some forms of artificial light. Consider using opaque wrapping of individual doors to protect them
from light damage after delivery.
3. Do not subject interior doors to extremes of heat and/or humidity. Do not allow doors to come in contact with water. Prolonged exposure may
cause damage. Buildings where humidity and temperature are controlled provide the best storage facilities (25%-55% RH and 50°F-90°F (10°C to
32°C)).
4. Do not install doors in buildings that have wet plaster or cement. Do not store doors in buildings with excessive moisture content. HVAC systems
should be operating and balanced
5. Doors should always be handled with clean dry hands or while wearing clean dry gloves.
6. Doors should be lifted and carried when being moved, not dragged across one another.
FINISHING
1. Wood is hygroscopic and dimensionally influenced by changes in moisture content caused by changes within its surrounding environment. To
assure uniform moisture exposure and dimensional control, all surfaces must be finished equally.
2. Doors should not be considered ready for finishing when initially received. Before finishing, remove all handling marks, raised grain, scuffs,
burnishes and other undesirable blemishes by block sanding all surfaces in a horizontal position with 120, 150 or 180 grit sandpaper. Solid core flush
doors, due to their weight, naturally compress the face veneer grain while in the stack. Therefore, sanding of the overall surface will be required to
open the veneer grain to receive a field applied finish evenly. To avoid cross grain scratches, sand with the grain.
3. Certain species of wood, particularly oak, may contain extractives which react unfavorably with foreign materials in the finishing system. Do not
use steel wool on bare wood, rusty containers or any other contaminate in the finishing system.
4. A thinned coat of sanding sealer should be applied prior to staining to promote a uniform appearance and avoid sharp contrasts in color or a
blotchy appearance. Door manufacturers are not responsible for the final appearance of field-finished doors. It is expected that the painting
contractor will make adjustments as needed to achieve desired results.
5. All exposed, unfinished wood surfaces should be finished and the top and bottom rails sealed, as required by manufacturer’s finishing
instructions. Cutouts for hardware in exterior doors and doors located adjacent to areas where high moisture is expected should be sealed prior to
installation of hardware.
6. Dark colored finishes should be avoided on all surfaces if the door is exposed to direct sunlight, in order to reduce the chance of warping or
veneer checking.
7. Water-based coatings on unfinished wood may cause veneer splits, highlight joints and raise wood grain. If used on exterior doors, the coating
should be an exterior grade product. When installed in exterior applications, doors must be properly sealed and adequately protected from the
elements. Please follow the finish and door manufacturer’s recommendations regarding the correct application and use of these products.
8. Be sure the door surface being finished is satisfactory in both smoothness and color after each coat. Allow adequate drying time between coats.
Desired results are best achieved by following the finish manufacturer’s recommendations. Do not finish doors until a sample of the finish has been
approved.
9. Certain wood fire doors have fire retardant salts impregnated into various wood components that make the components more hygroscopic than
normal wood. When exposed to high moisture conditions, these salts will concentrate on exposed surfaces and interfere with the finish. Before
finishing the treated wood, reduce moisture content below 11% and remove the salt crystals with a damp cloth followed by drying and light sanding.
48
INSTALLATION
1. The utility or structural strength of the doors must not be impaired when fitting to the opening, applying hardware, or preparing for lites, louvers,
plant-ons or other detailing.
2. Use two hinges for solid core doors up to 60 inches (1524 mm) in height, three hinges up to 90 inches (2286 mm) in height or portion thereof.
Interior hollow core doors weighing less than 50 lbs. (23 kg) and not over 90 inches (2286 mm) in height may be hung on two hinges. Use heavy
weight hinges on doors over 175 lbs. (79 kg). Pivot hardware may be used in lieu of hinges. Consult hinge or pivot hardware manufacturer with
regard to weight and size of hinges or pivots required.
3. The maximum clearance between the top, hinge edge and lock edge to the frame and meeting edge of pairs of doors, is 1/8 inch (3.2 mm).
4. All hardware locations, preparations and methods of attachment must be appropriate for the specific door construction. Templates for specific
hardware preparation are available from hardware manufacturers or their distributors.
5. Pilot holes must be drilled for all screws that act as hardware attachments. Full threaded screws are preferable for fastening hardware to non-
rated doors and are required on fire-rated doors. Self-tapping or combination wood/metal screws are not to be used on wood doors.
6. In fitting non-rated doors for height, do not trim top or bottom edge by more than 3/4 inch (20 mm) unless accommodated by additional blocking.
Trimming of fire-rated doors must be in accordance with NFPA 80
7. Doors and door frames should be installed plumb, square and level.
CLEANING AND TOUCHUP
1. Inspect all wood doors prior to hanging them on the job. Repair noticeable marks or defects that may have occurred from improper storage and
handling.
2. Field repairs and touchups are the responsibility of the installing contractor upon completion of initial installation. Field touchup shall include the
filling of exposed nail or screw holes, re-finishing of raw surfaces resulting from job fitting, repair of job inflicted scratches and mars and final cleaning
of finished surfaces.
3. When cleaning door surfaces, use a non-abrasive commercial cleaner designed for cleaning wood door or paneling surfaces that does not leave
a film residue that would build up or affect the surface gloss of the door finish.
ADJUSTMENT AND MAINTENANCE
1. Insure that all doors swing freely and do not bind in their frame. Adjust the finish hardware for proper alignment, smooth operation and proper
latching without unnecessary force or excessive clearance.
2. Review with the owner/owner’s representative how to periodically inspect all doors for wear, damage and natural deterioration.
3. Review with the owner/owner’s representative how to periodically inspect and adjust all hardware to insure that it continues to function as it was
originally intended.
4. Finishes on exterior doors may deteriorate due to exposure to the environment. In order to protect the door, it is recommended that the condition
of the exterior finish be inspected at least once a year and re-finished as needed. Both exterior and interior finishes will change color over time.
330 N Wabash Avenue, Suite 2000, Chicago, IL 60611

2025 M Street NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20036
www.wdma.com
49
REFERENCE STANDARDS AND ORGANIZATIONS
ADA
Americans with Disabilities
Disability Rights Section Mailing Address
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Civil Rights Division
Disability Rights Section - NYA
Washington, D.C. 20530
www.usdoj.gov
ANSI
American National Standards Institute, Inc.
25 West 43rd Street, 4th floor
New York, NY 10036
www.ansi.org
ANSI A135.4 – 12 Basic Hardboard
ANSI A208.1 – 09 Particleboard
ANSI A208.2 – 09 Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) for Interior Applications
ASTM
American Society for Testing and Materials
100 Barr Harbor Drive
P.O. Box C700
West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959
www.astm.org
ASTM D1308 - 02(2013) Standard Test Method for Effect of Household Chemicals on Clear and Pigmented Organic Finishes
ASTM D3359 – 09e2 Standard Test Methods for Measuring Adhesion by Tape Test
ASTM D4060 - 10 Standard Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Organic Coatings by the Taber Abraser
ASTM E90 - 09 Standard Test Method for Laboratory Measurement of Airborne Sound Transmission Loss of Building Partitions and Elements
ASTM E413 - 10 Classification for Rating Sound Insulation
AWI
Architectural Woodwork Institute
1952 Isaac Newton Square West
Reston, VA 20190
www.awinet.org
Architectural Woodwork Standards, 1st Edition
FSC
Forest Stewardship Council – U.S.
212 Third Avenue North, Suite 504Minneapolis, MN 55401
www.fscus.org
GBI
Green Globes
The Green Building Initiative
2104 SE Morrison
Portland, Oregon 97214
www.thegbi.org
HPVA
Hardwood Plywood & Veneer Association
1825 Michael Faraday Drive
Reston, VA 20290
www.hpva.org
50
ICC
International Code Council
500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, 6th Floor
Washington, DC 20001-2070
www.iccsafe.org
International Building Code (IBC) – all editions
NEMA
National Electrical Manufacturers Association
1300 North 17th Street, Suite 1847
Rosslyn, VA
www.nema.org
ANSI/NEMA LD-3 – 05 High-Pressure Decorative Laminates (HPDL)
NFPA
National Fire Protection Association
1 Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02169
www.nfpa.org
NFPA 80 – 13 Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives
NFPA 101 – 12 Life Safety Code
NFPA 105 – 13 Standard for the Installation of Smoke Door Assemblies and Other Opening Protectives
NFPA 252 – 12 Standard Methods of Fire Tests of Door Assemblies
NFPA 5000 – 12 Building Construction and Safety Code
NIJ
National Institute of Justice
810 Seventh Street, NW
Washington, DC 20531
www.ojb.usdoj.gov/nij
SCS
Scientific Certification Systems
2200 Powell Street, Suite 725
Emeryville, CA 94608
www.scscertified.com
SFI
Sustainable Forestry Initiative, Inc.
900 17th Street, NW, Suite 700
www.sfiprogram.org
UL
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
333 Pfingsten Road
Northbrook, IL 60062
www.ul.com
UL 10B – 08 Standard for Fire Tests of Door Assemblies
UL 10C – 09 Standard for Positive Pressure Fire Tests of Door Assemblies
UL 752 – 05 Standard for Bullet-Resisting Equipment
UL 1784 – 01 Standard for Air Leakage Tests of Door Assemblies
USGBC
LEED – Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
U.S. Green Building Council
2101 L Street, NW, Suite 500
www.usgbc.org
51
WDMA
Window & Door Manufacturers Association
330 N Wabash Avenue, Suite 2000, Chicago, IL 60611
2025 M Street NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20036
www.wdma.com
ANSI/WDMA I.S. 6A-13 Industry Standard for Interior Architectural Wood Stile and Rails Doors
WDMA I.S. 10-13 Industry Standard for Testing Cellulosic Composite Materials for Use in Fenestration Products
WDMA T.M. 6-08 Test Method for Determining the Durability of Adhesives Used in Doors under Accelerated Aging Conditions
WDMA T.M. 7-08 Test Method for Determining the Physical Endurance of Wood Doors and Associated Hardware Connections under
Accelerated Operating Conditions
WDMA T.M. 8-08 Test Method for Determining Hinge Loading Resistance of Wood Door Stiles
WDMA T.M. 10-08 Test Method for Determining the Screw Holding Capacity of Wood Doors
WDMA T.M. 15-11 Test Method for Determining the Vertical Edge Impact Resistance of Backing for Veneered Wood Door Stiles
52
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I.S.

Industry Standard for

Approved by the WDMA Board of Directors

GREEN PRODUCTS STATEMENT OF BELIEFS 2 TESTS

JOB SITE INFORMATION

REFERENCE STANDARDS AND ORGANIZATIONS 50

Wood Face Requirements: Door Construction:

Special Flitch Selection Special Color Ranges (face and/or edge)

A-2: Face Selection

A-3: Appearance of Individual Veneer Leaves

A-4: Matching Between Individual Veneer Leaves

Pair Match Set Match

Continuous Match End Match

A-8: Flush Door Face Veneer Characteristics

Veneer Faces, Opaque or Transparent Finish

Performance Duty Level

P-2: Example Duty Level Applications

P-4: Flame Spread Smoke Development

T-2: Flatness or Warp

T-5: Joint Gaps

C-1: Face Requirements

Door Skin Construction:

C-2: Crossbanding Requirements

C-3: Core Requirements

C-4: Edge Requirements

Horizontal Edges (Rails):

Hollow Core Doors

Horizontal Edges (Rails):

C-5: Vertical and Horizontal Edge/Core Interface

T1: T2: Non-

WL or FL 1212 WL or FL 1812 WL or FL 2412 WL or FL 2418 WL or FL 2424

L3: Chevrons, L4: Chevrons,

See Section C-11 for matching requirements.

Blocking (Reinforcement) Options

HB1 HB2 HB3 HB4 HB5 HB6 HB7 HB8

C-9: Special Function Doors

C-10: Environmental Doors

ANSI/WDMA I.S.1A Minimum Aesthetic Standards for Laminate Faced Doors

Top and Bottom Horizontal Edges:

Wood Veneer Fire Resistant Composite Core

Top and Bottom Horizontal Edges:

Top and Bottom Horizontal Edges:

HPDL Fire Resistant Composite Core

Top and Bottom Horizontal Edges:

Wood Veneer Structural Composite Lumber Core

Wood Veneer Staved Lumber Core

Top and Bottom Horizontal Edges:

HPDL Staved Lumber Core

Top and Bottom Horizontal Edges:

HPDL Hollow Core

F-1: Factory Finishing

F-2: Finish Selection

F-5: Job Site Finishing

F-6: Visual Inspection Standards

SYSTEM NAME / NUMBER

HOW TO STORE, HANDLE, FINISH, INSTALL AND MAINTAIN WOOD DOORS

CARE AND INSTALLATION AT JOB SITE

330 N Wabash Avenue, Suite 2000, Chicago, IL 60611

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