Eastern White Pine Post and Beam

Why “grain popping” is emerging as a must-do step in wood finishing A design trend is quietly gaining momentum among architects, finishers, and DIYers alike: applying a prefinish water “pop” to open up wood grain and let the stain truly sing. The technique—often called water popping or grain raising—is becoming a go-to for richer, deeper, […] The post Grain Popping Emerges as Design Trend To Watch in 2026 appeared first on NELMA.

When building or renovating your home, one detail that deserves more attention is lumber grading. Knowing how lumber is graded — and why it matters — can help you avoid costly surprises and ensure your project stands the test of time. What is Lumber Grading?Lumber grading is the process of inspecting and classifying wood based […] The post Lumber Grades — Why Homeowners Should Care appeared first on NELMA.