OUR MATERIALS || SOFTWOOD || HEMLOCK WOOD

HEMLOCK WOOD

Alternative Names & Variations: Eastern Hemlock, Western Hemlock, Mountain Hemlock

Color: Light Reddish-Brown Heartwood

Hardness: Soft

Sustainability Status: Very Sustainable / Stable Species Population

Characteristics: Hemlock heartwood is characterized by its light reddish-brown color, while the sapwood is usually lighter and not easily distinguished from the heartwood. The wood's growth rings create distinctive patterns on flatsawn surfaces, adding visual interest to finished products.

The grain of Hemlock wood is generally straight, accompanied by a coarse and uneven texture. This makes it relatively straightforward to work with in terms of grain direction. Despite being relatively soft, it is favored for construction purposes.

STRENGTHS

  • Very easy to work with hand and machine tools. Alder wood is soft, sands easily, and finishes well.

  • Alder wood is abundant in the US, making it accessible for small and large-scale projects.

  • Once fully dried, Alder wood is sturdy, exhibiting minimal twisting or alterations in finished products.

  • Alder is more affordable than other hardwoods, making it a great option for budget-minded shoppers.

WEAKNESSES

  • Alder wood is not always the best option in terms of rot resistance. Alder wood is best for indoor furniture; it turns to pulp in moist, warm conditions.

  • Some may exhibit allergies to Alder tree pollen. In extreme cases, sensitivities to wood dust or wood oils may occur.

  • Despite being a hardwood, Alder wood is relatively soft. To protect the finish from knicks and dents, caution is needed against sharp objects.

HEMLOCK WOOD ALTERNATIVES

PINE WOOD

PINE WOOD

CEDAR WOOD

CEDAR WOOD

DOUGLAS FIR WOOD

DOUGLAS FIR WOOD