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GRAD milling
Precision-milled boards for GRAD Rail Systems
GRAD Milling
What GRAD Milling means
we mill the exact groove & profile needed for grad rails & clips
GRAD milling is the precision machining process that allows wood boards to integrate seamlessly with the GRAD hidden-fastener system. EWP custom mills the exact groove profile required on the underside of each board, creating a precise connection point for GRAD rails and clips. This specialized process ensures consistent engagement across every board, supporting clean installation lines, accurate spacing, and a completely concealed fastening system.
Unlike traditional face-fastened installations, GRAD-milled boards simply clip into place on the rail system without visible screws or surface penetrations. The result is a premium architectural appearance combined with practical installation benefits, including faster installation, reduced risk of board damage, and the ability to remove individual boards when future access or replacement is required. EWP’s precision milling capabilities allow GRAD compatibility across a wide range of wood species, profiles, and custom architectural applications.
GRAD Benefits
WHY BUILDERS & ARCHITECTS CHOOSE GRAD
GRAD milling combines precision manufacturing with a hidden-fastener installation system designed for modern architectural wood applications.
EWP helps builders reduce installation time while giving architects the clean lines, consistent spacing, and premium appearance demanded by today’s commercial and residential projects.
The result is a faster installation process, a superior finished product, and greater flexibility throughout the life of the project.
Multi-Species Compatibility
material compatibility
EWP provides GRAD milling for a wide range of approved wood species and premium materials, including Kebony, Accoya, Thermory, Arbor Wood, Dasso Bamboo, cedar, hardwoods, and other project-specific materials reviewed for compatibility.
kebony
Sustainably modified wood that delivers exceptional durability, stability, and long-term exterior performance.
Luna Wood
Premium Nordic ThermoWood® engineered for stability, sustainability & architectural performance.
Thermory
Thermally modified wood offering enhanced durability, dimensional stability, and natural beauty.
accoya
High-performance modified wood known for outstanding stability, longevity, and design versatility.
Dasso
Engineered bamboo material providing exceptional hardness, durability, and weather resistance.
Cedar
A naturally durable wood species valued for its appearance, workability, and stability.
Hardwoods
Premium hardwood species offering strength, durability, and distinctive natural character.
Arbor Wood
Thermally modified wood engineered for durability, consistency, and architectural applications.
applications
VERSATILE WOOD SOLUTIONS FOR MODERN ARCHITECTURE
From exterior facades to interior feature walls, EWP’s GRAD milling supports a wide range of architectural wood applications. Hidden-fastener installation, precision milling, and material flexibility help architects and builders achieve clean, consistent results across every project.
decking
CLEANER DECK INSTALLATIONS
CLADDING
MODERN FACADE PERFORMANCE
RAINSCREEN SIDING
BETTER BUILDING ENVELOPES
CEILINGS
SEAMLESS OVERHEAD FINISHES
SOFFITS
REFINED EXTERIOR DETAILS
WALLS
PREMIUM INTERIOR FEATURES
Frequently asked questions
You Can Learn More From Our Asked Questions
Have questions about GRAD milling, material compatibility, installation requirements, or project suitability? Find answers to the most common questions from architects, builders, contractors, and design professionals.
GRAD milling is the precision machining process used to create the specialized groove profile required for the GRAD hidden-fastener system. EWP mills each board to exact specifications, allowing it to securely engage with GRAD rails and clips. This process eliminates the need for visible face fasteners while maintaining consistent spacing and alignment throughout the installation.
EWP can provide GRAD milling for a wide range of approved wood products and species. Common materials include Kebony, Accoya, Thermory, Arbor Wood, Dasso Bamboo, cedar, and various hardwoods. Additional materials may also be reviewed for compatibility based on project requirements, board dimensions, and application type. Our team can help determine the best material solution for your project.
No. One of the primary advantages of the GRAD system is its concealed fastening design. The attachment components are hidden beneath the finished surface, eliminating visible screws, plugs, or face fasteners. This creates clean, uninterrupted wood surfaces that are highly desirable in modern architectural applications and premium residential projects.
GRAD-milled boards are suitable for a variety of architectural applications, including decking, cladding, rainscreen siding, ceilings, soffits, and interior feature walls. The system is commonly specified on commercial, multifamily, hospitality, institutional, and high-end residential projects where clean aesthetics and installation efficiency are important design objectives.
GRAD-milled boards are suitable for a variety of architectural applications, including decking, cladding, rainscreen siding, ceilings, soffits, and interior feature walls. The system is commonly specified on commercial, multifamily, hospitality, institutional, and high-end residential projects where clean aesthetics and installation efficiency are important design objectives.
Yes. EWP specializes in custom GRAD milling services tailored to the specific requirements of each project. We can work with approved wood species, custom board dimensions, architectural profiles, and unique design details. Our goal is to provide builders and designers with a milling solution that integrates seamlessly with the GRAD installation system while meeting project-specific performance and aesthetic requirements.
Absolutely. GRAD is frequently used on commercial and architectural projects where appearance, durability, and long-term serviceability are critical considerations. The hidden-fastener design, consistent spacing, and ability to remove boards when needed make the system an attractive solution for architects, builders, and property owners seeking a premium finished result.
Getting started is simple. Contact EWP with your project details, including the intended application, preferred wood species, estimated quantities, and any architectural drawings or specifications available. Our team can review material compatibility, discuss milling requirements, and provide guidance on the most effective solution for your project, along with a customized quote.
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Get samples - request a quote
Experience the quality of EWP’s advanced wood processing firsthand. Request material samples, discuss your project requirements, and receive a customized quote for GRAD milling, Shou Sugi Ban, custom laminated beams, or factory finishing services. Our team is ready to help bring your vision from concept to completion.