Lumber Products offers framing materials at select locations servicing the northwest. The primary species of framing lumber supplied are Douglas Fir and Hem Fir.
Douglas Fir grows throughout Western forests with the most abundant region being in the coastal climates of Oregon, Washington and northern California, and is the major species produced in the West. Its performance characteristics are internationally recognized. It is abundant and widely available in second and third-growth stands providing a wide variety of products ranging from dimension and oter framing products, to appearance grades products, and industrial and specialty grades.
Hem-Fir is a species combination of Western Hemlock and the true firs. With strength properties slightly below DF-L (and above DF-S), 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.
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.
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.
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