Western Hemlock
Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) and Amabilis Fir (Abies amabilis) are two species logged and marketed together as Hem/Fir.
Lumber
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Western Hemlock
Western Hemlock is light in colour with a pinkish to reddish-brown colour. Sapwood and heartwood are not distinct. It has a straight even grain with a fine texture. The wood is moderately hard and strong with good strength. This species is slightly resistant to decay.
Hemlock dries slowly, holds its shape and exhibits little tendency to check. Machines well, sands smooth, excellent gluing ability. It paints and stains very well.
Benefits of Using Western Hemlock:
- Excellent for machining and sanding purposes
- Considered a high-grade softwood
- Very little variation in grain or color
- Easy to stain and match to other woods
- Resistant to splintering and denting
- Provides a natural color for interiors and finishing work