The two species comprising the Pacific Coast Hemlock commercial group are Western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) and Amabilis fir (Abies amabilis). Western hemlock, found on of the coastal mountain ranges of western North America from sea level to mid elevations, has an even grain that is excellent for architectural millwork such as doors, windows and for a wide variety of structural components for home building.
Hemlock is light in color with a pinkish to reddish-brown tinge. The annual rings are distinct and the transition from earlywood to latewood is subtle. It has a straight, even grain with a medium to fine texture. Balsam is very similar to Hemlock but is generally whiter and can contain distinctive mineral streaks.
Interfor separates Hemlock from Balsam in the upper log grades and can provide pure Hemlock or pure Balsam in both clear and shop products. In construction grades, these species are mixed together.
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Hemlock (Japanese)
Hemlock (Chinese)
* Product sheets are courtesy CFPA