Another popular lumber species, Hem-fir is a cross between Western Hemlock Tsuga heterophylla, the western hemlock or western hemlock-spruce, is a species of hemlock native to the west coast of North America, with its northwestern limit on the Kenai Peninsula, Alaska, and its southeastern limit in northern Sonoma County, California.Western Hemlock
Lumber
Lumber or timber is a type of wood that has been processed into beams and planks, a stage in the process of wood production. Lumber is mainly used for structural purposes but has many other uses as well.
What is a hemlock fir tree?
Hem-Fir is a species combination of Western Hemlock and the true firs ( Noble, California Red , Grand , Pacific Silver and White fir ). With strength properties slightly below Douglas Fir-Larch, this is an extremely versatile species group and useful for multiple, general-purpose framing applications.
How strong is Hemlock wood?
Hemlock is a strong wood that gives hardwoods a run for their money. However, the strength of this softwood depends if the quality of the grain. For instance, if the wood has knots in it, it will splinter when cut with a machine, thus not the best option in terms of durability.
Is hemlock a good material for framing?
It is an excellent material for building projects, particularly for framing. Hemlock is more resistant to warping or twisting due to weather than pine, so it is a popular choice for trims and moldings. Pine is known as a weak wood, though it has its place.
Does Hemlock wood rot?
Yes, Hemlock wood can rot, it is rated as low in decay resistance. Hemlock wood does not have natural rot-resistant properties. The open grains of the wood tends to absorb moisture, which makes the wood prone to fungus and the wood smells. We can say that the main reason for the rotting of wood is fungal growth in damp wood.
What is a hem fir?
Is heartwood a distinct wood?
Is hemfir a softwood?
Is hemlock fir A strong wood?
Type of Lumber: Hem Fir Because it is stronger than most softwoods, it can be used for light structural work. However, Hem Fir can also be used for its aesthetic look.
What is the difference between fir and hemlock lumber?
The evergreen foliage of fir trees differs from that of hemlocks. Hemlocks feature a narrow, flat, evergreen needle that tapers at its base to form a tiny stem, attaching to the twigs on what resembles a woody cushion. The needles on a fir tree appear plump or flat in a cross-section view.
Is hemlock fir stronger than Douglas Fir?
Significantly, Hem-fir is quite strong and its strength is only slightly below that of Doug-fir.
What are hemlock boards used for?
Hemlock is a great wood that works well with machines and hand tools. Mostly Hemlock is used to make boxes, roofing, crates, light framing, and other sign construction items. It is strong with unique qualities that are so useful in woodworking.
Which wood is better pine or hemlock?
Although the US Forestry Service, as stated above, doesn't see Eastern Hemlock as a particularly strong or rot resistant, it is the local “go to” wood for a number of uses. It is much stronger and harder than pine. It is used as cribbing (jacking timbers) and in situations requiring high strength.
What is the strongest wood for framing?
To Choose the Best Lumber for Framing, Consider Treated or Manufactured Wood. Redwood or cedar hold up to the elements, but a less expensive option might be to go with pressure-treated wood that is resistant to water, insects, and rot.
What is the strongest wood in the forest?
Australian Buloke – 5,060 IBF An ironwood tree that is native to Australia, this wood comes from a species of tree occurring across most of Eastern and Southern Australia. Known as the hardest wood in the world, this particular type has a Janka hardness of 5,060 lbf.
Which fir lasts the longest?
Fraser FirGreat for strength: The strongest branch award goes to the Noble Fir. It's strong, stiff branches will hold up even the heaviest of ornaments. Longest lasting: The longest-lasting tree (if you take care of it!) is the Fraser Fir.
What's the strongest 2x4 wood?
Doug-Fir. Douglas-fir, popularly known as Doug-fir, is undoubtedly the best and most common structural lumber. It is most architects' and engineers' go-to lumber species and this is not just because of its remarkable dimensional stability. It is also among the strongest and most durable softwood lumbers.
Is hemlock soft or hardwood?
Hemlock is used primarily as a construction timber, and is in good supply. Expect prices to be moderate for a domestic softwood. Sustainability: This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices, but is reported by the IUCN as being near threatened.
Is hemlock lumber good for outdoor use?
Less expensive than cedar or spruce, hemlock is the hardwood of soft woods. This characteristic makes it a perfect wood for structures in humid environments such as docks, little wood bridge, fences, flower boxes and garden structures in greenhouses that can also become very humid.
How can you tell if lumber is hemlock?
Little color variance between hemlock's heartwood and sapwood results in a nearly uniform buff color in both species. The wood of western hemlock weighs more (about 29 pounds per cubic foot, dry) than that of its eastern relative. Western hemlock also is harder, stronger, straighter-grained, and resin-free.
Which is harder Douglas Fir or hemlock?
Fir is harder and stronger than pine, spruce or hemlock, and it's less likely to have knots or other blemishes.
How can you tell if lumber is hemlock?
Color/Appearance: Heartwood is light reddish brown. Sapwood may be slightly lighter in color but usually isn't distinguished from the heartwood. The conspicuous growth rings can exhibit interesting grain patterns on flatsawn surfaces. Grain/Texture: Grain is generally straight, but may be interlocked or spiraled.
Is hemlock lumber good for outdoor use?
Less expensive than cedar or spruce, hemlock is the hardwood of soft woods. This characteristic makes it a perfect wood for structures in humid environments such as docks, little wood bridge, fences, flower boxes and garden structures in greenhouses that can also become very humid.
What is the strongest 2x4 wood?
Doug-Fir. Douglas-fir, popularly known as Doug-fir, is undoubtedly the best and most common structural lumber. It is most architects' and engineers' go-to lumber species and this is not just because of its remarkable dimensional stability. It is also among the strongest and most durable softwood lumbers.
What is hem fir?
Hem fir is one of the most common lumber species used in both residential and industrial purposes, and it is a combination of Western Hemlock and true firs. It is majorly associated with structural framing among other general applications. Just like other lumber species, Hem-fir also has its various attributes, some good some bad, ...
What is the color of hem fir?
Its color ranges between white and light straw color. You might find some hem-fir with a slight lavender cast, which gives it a natural appeal. The lumber is also fine-grained and even textured. It has quite a number of knots, rings, and springs.
Is hem fir hard to work with?
Workability. Just like other pressure-treated lumber, Hem-fir is quite soft. This makes it easy to work with, and drilling and nailing it can be quite an effortless task. The lumber also glues easily and accepts paint well.
Is hem fir lumber dimensional?
Hem-fir can be found in quite a number of dimensions, saving you the strength of having to cut the longer ones to get small dimensional lumber or vice Versa. These are pretty much the top facts about Hem-fir lumber, worth knowing to help you decide, whether or not it is what you require.
Is hem fir good for decking?
Because of the light color of Hem-fir, it is mostly considered for tasks requiring lighter lumber, for instance, high-quality case goods, molding among others. It is also usable in building decks and other outdoor amenities, but this only applies if the lumber has been properly pressure-treated with preservatives.
Is hem fir stronger than Doug fir?
Significantly, Hem-fir is quite strong and its strength is only slightly below that of Doug-fir. 3. Cost. Hem-fir is by far the cheapest lumber species, and this could possibly be one of the reasons for its prevalence. Among all decking boards, Hem-fir is the least expensive especially the untreated version.
Is hem fir wood susceptible to water damage?
Unfortunately, Hem-fir is a little bit more susceptible to water and insect damage than its counterparts; the likes of Doug-fir, SYP and SPF. But, this should not be a major issue since the wood can be regularly pressure-treated or merely primed or painted to reduce its vulnerability.
What is hem fir?
Hem-Fir is a species combination of Western Hemlock and the true firs ( Noble, California Red, Grand, Pacific Silver and White fir ). With strength properties slightly below Douglas Fir-Larch, this is an extremely versatile species group and useful for multiple, general-purpose framing applications. In the structural framing grades, Hem-Fir is capable of meeting the span requirements of many installations.
What is hemfir wood?
Hem-Fir products are white to a light straw color, sometimes with a slight lavender cast, especially around the knots and in the transition area between the spring and summerwood's growth rings. The heartwood is not distinct. Sometimes small, delicate dark grey or black streaks appear in the wood. Hem-Fir is fine grained and even textured, with a refined appearance. In the clear and nearly clear appearance grades, these products lend formality to wood interiors. Hem-Fir is often specified for high quality case goods, doors, moulding and millwork.
Is hemfir a softwood?
Hem-Fir is often considered by those seeking wood with a very light color as the most desirable of the Western softwoods. It is as light or lighter in color than some of the Western pines but stronger. Products are available in structural, appearance and remanufacturing grades. It is easily pressure treated with preservatives, making it useful for decks and other outdoor amenities.
What is Hemlock Wood?
Hemlock is a softwood and a member of the pine family. There are about 10 species of hemlock, with the most popular and commercialized Eastern Hemlock and western hemlock.
Characteristics of Hemlock Wood
There are plenty of reasons to use hemlock wood in your next project, and discussed below are just a few.
The Best Alternative to Hardwood
If your budget is not enough for the high cost of hardwood, you can use hemlock as it has almost similar features.
What are the Downsides of Using Hemlock Wood?
Like every other type of wood, hemlock also has its downside. So do your research before buying or cutting your hemlock tree. So what complaints do people have on hemlock?
5 Facts that Show Hemlock Wood is Good
If you are not sure if hemlock wood is good for anything, here are 5 facts to prove that you can use it to make the following items.
Final Thoughts
Hemlock is a solid softwood and an excellent building material with many pros than cons. It can be used as an alternative to hardwood makes a better choice for people with a low budget. And a bonus to boot, it’s good to look at.
What does it mean when hemlock is hard?
The strength of hemlock means that when it dries, it is quite hard. This is great for something you don’t want to change or see a shift – it’s sturdy and resilient – but if you are working with aged and dried wood or looking to modify an existing fixture, nailing and sawing can become a challenge.
What color is eastern hemlock?
One feature of eastern hemlock that may influence you to opt for it for your siding is that over time, as it weathers, it becomes a pleasing and distinctive brown-red color. This is different from comparable lumber choices such as spruce or fir, which weather to a dull grey.
How does weather affect wood?
Weathers to a Pleasing Color. Over time, exposure to the elements will change the color of the wood. As it ages, it will dry out, fade in the sun, and be exposed to wind and rain. All of this affects how it will eventually look.
Is hemlock lumber strong?
However, hemlock lumber with the smooth grain is actually quite strong. This strength makes it fairly resistant to wear and tear, and consequently, it is a good option for high-traffic parts of a house or building, where it will hold up to frequent use. It is an excellent material for building projects, particularly for framing.
Is hemlock a good material?
Hemlock is a good building material because it is light and strong. It is widely used for framings and sub-floors, as well as for roofing and sheathing. It can also be used for indoor features like shutters, banisters, and stairs. Hemlock is a softwood common in North America. It was used primarily for its bark, which was extracted for tannin, ...
Is hemlock wood stronger than pine?
Hemlock is more resistant to warping or twisting due to weather than pine, so it is a popular choice for trims and moldings. Pine is known as a weak wood, though it has its place. However, hemlock is far superior when it comes to warping and discoloration from temperature fluctuations.
Is hemlock a wood?
Hemlock is a softwood common in North America. It was used primarily for its bark, which was extracted for tannin, but these days its use in construction is becoming more and more widespread. The rest of this article will look at the pros and cons of choosing to build with hemlock and what kind of projects it is best suited for.
What Is Fir Lumber?
Fir lumber is commonly sold in three different ways in the US, and only one of these is likely to have much true fir in it, although it’s just as possible not to have any.
How Are Fir And Pine Lumber Different?
Now that we’ve considered what fir and pine are let’s examine the differences between the various types of lumber sold in the trade.
What is a hem fir?
Hem-Fir is a species combination of Western Hemlock and the true firs ( Noble, California Red , Grand , Pacific Silver and White fir ). With strength properties slightly below Douglas Fir-Larch, this is an extremely versatile species group and useful for multiple, general-purpose framing applications. In the structural framing grades, HF is capable of meeting the span requirements of many installations.
Is heartwood a distinct wood?
The heartwood is not distinct. Sometimes small, delicate dark grey or black streaks appear in the wood. Hem-Fir is fine grained and even textured, with a refined appearance. In the clear and nearly clear appearance grades, these products lend formality to wood interiors.
Is hemfir a softwood?
Hem-Fir is often considered by those seeking wood with a very light color as the most desirable of the Western softwoods. It is as light or lighter in color than some of the Western pines but stronger. Products are available in structural, appearance and remanufacturing grades. It is easily pressure treated with preservatives, making it useful for decks and other outdoor amenities.
Use
Physical Properties
- Hem-fir is lightly colored. Its color ranges between white and light straw color. You might find some hem-fir with a slight lavender cast, which gives it a natural appeal. The lumber is also fine-grained and even textured. It has quite a number of knots, rings, and springs. Significantly, Hem-fir is quite strong and its strength is only slightly be...
Cost
- Hem-fir is by far the cheapest lumber species, and this could possibly be one of the reasons for its prevalence. Among all decking boards, Hem-fir is the least expensive especially the untreated version. However, the downside to this could be high susceptibility to water damage and insect infestation. A better option would be priming or painting it for preservation sakes.
Availability
- Hem-fir is readily available, you can easily find it in your local store or lumberyard. In fact major stores like Sherwood Lumberstock it in all its grades, that is, the structural, appearance and remanufacturing grades. Additionally, because of its affordability, most wholesalers and retailers find it easy to stock it.
Susceptibility to Damage
- Unfortunately, Hem-fir is a little bit more susceptible to water and insect damage than its counterparts; the likes of Doug-fir, SYP and SPF. But, this should not be a major issue since the wood can be regularly pressure-treated or merely primed or painted to reduce its vulnerability.
Workability
- Just like other pressure-treated lumber, Hem-fir is quite soft. This makes it easy to work with, and drilling and nailing it can be quite an effortless task. The lumber also glues easily and accepts paint well.
Other Attributes
- Besides the above mentioned, Hem-fir is also solid tough, making it one of the durable lumber species. Its strength gives it a great joist distance span, which is an upside. Additionally. Hem-fir can be found in quite a number of dimensions, saving you the strength of having to cut the longer ones to get small dimensional lumber or vice Versa. These are pretty much the top facts about …