Western Hemlock is the single most plentiful tree species on the coast of British Columbia. It grows along both the east and west sides of the Coastal Mountain Ranges, from sea level to mid elevations, as well as in the interior of the province. On an average, it typically grows to about 30 to 50 meters tall and 1 to 1.5 meters in diameter. It usually grows in mixed stands with Douglas-fir, Amabilis fir, Sitka spruce and Western Red Cedar, and seldom in pure stands. Of British Columbia’s total growing stock, Hemlock makes up 17.7% of the volume and close to 60% of the coastal volume.
Hemlock is firmly established as an outstanding wood for mouldings and interior woodworking. Other uses include doors, windows, floors suspended ceilings, ladders and utility purposes where a high grade is needed. Hemlock is recommended in India for furniture, solid doors, finger joint door frames and other internal uses. Hemlock is also used for general construction, roof decking and plywood. It is popular for laminating stock and the production of glue laminated beams sold in the Japanese market.
Hemlock lumber is seasoned uniformly in dry kilns, which improves its strength and stiffness and increases resistance to decay and insect attack. Western Hemlock is known for its even density which provides for excellent machining properties. It has a relatively good strength to weight ratio and is known for its excellent working properties. The wood requires special care when drying but yields quality product. It is relatively easy to work with good machining qualities. It turns planes and shapes well and can be sanded to a smooth finish. It glues satisfactorily, has moderate nail and screw holding ability, and polishes beautifully. Best finish is with light stain or clear finish followed by nitrocellulose alkyd clear sealer and finish.
Due to the high moisture content of this wood, longer kiln drying times are required. When dried at high temperatures the exterior 2-3 mm can turn a brownish colour. It has natural decay resistance and is not appropriate for prolonged outdoor exposure. Its treatability is good and can be further improved by incising.
