Superior 1 Face Alder is a clearer grade of Red Alder (Alnus rubra) lumber, and is widely used overseas in trim and furniture applications where one face of the board is seen. It combines boards graded as “Select & Better” and FAS (Firsts and Seconds) on the front face, yielding at least 83-1/3% clear cuttings, with minimum cutting sizes of 3” x 6’ or 4” x 3’. The reverse face is typically graded as sound or better, which allows an unlimited number of sound defects on the unseen face. This makes it ideal for single-face applications like cabinetry, laminated entry doors, casegoods, and millwork, where the back is not visible. Superior 1 Face Alder is the perfect real hardwood grade option for domestic builders to set themselves apart from the competition.

We have included several front and back photos of Superior 1 Face Alder below for reference. Note the clarity on the grade face, then compare the front to the reverse face, which shows a wide range of defects.

Here is a link to the Cascade Hardwoods PDF sales sheet, which is a handy reference when quoting or considering using S1F for an Alder project.

Because Superior 1 Face Alder represents such a good value relative to Superior Alder (cost is currently one-third of SUP, but it does vary with market demand), careful use can yield cost savings for users. It has to be carefully milled, as defects can appear on the faces if a significant amount of material is planed off. In watching its use overseas, we have seen manufacturers where the faces are simply sanded to a 200-grit-plus finish after the boards have been dimensioned in a moulder. Careful ripping is often needed, as it is easy to rip through one of the knots on the unseen face, exposing its edge.

One overlooked use for Superior 1 Face Alder is paint-grade interior trim. Alder paints very well to a glass-smooth finish, and we are finding that more and more specifiers are counting on its dimensional stability and paintability to create today’s high-end, square eased-edge trim interiors. When installing, it takes nails and screws and glues easily, rarely splitting, and is ready and smooth when fastener holes are filled.

Forward-thinking trim installers can offer Alder as a premium option where it can be stained to mimic many higher-end species, or better yet, be finished naturally, where its beauty comes through. The key is that this can be done in lieu of primed MDF or other options normally used when trying to build value-priced residences. With the new home market getting more competitive, spec and track builders featuring a little natural wood can offer an option that might put their offering over the top of the minimally spec’ed offerings of their competitors. Real Alder hardwood is affordable and can be used even in cost-constrained environments if everyone understands what is available.