Hem-Fir Wood Guide 2026
Hemlock/Fir mix
Commonly reported as chosen for strength in framing
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 34 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Softwood
- Origin: United States
- Common uses include Framing, Beams, Millwork
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Medium
Workability: Easy to work; holds fasteners well.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: Paints well.
Color change: Light color yellows slightly.
Insect resistance: Susceptible
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Hem-Fir. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Nominal 2x4 through 2x12 | 8–20 ft even lengths | Request this size |
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Nominal 2x4 through 2x12
- Lengths
- 8–20 ft even lengths
Decking & exterior profiles
Framing lumber; treated Hem-Fir used for decking substructure in the West
Availability notes: Common West Coast framing species.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Light to reddish brown
Grain: Straight
Common Uses
- Framing
- Beams
- Millwork
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Tsuga/Abies spp.
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 490 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Non-Durable
- Sourced from United States
Considerations
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Hem-Fir is unavailable or over budget.
- Douglas Fir660 lbf Janka
- Spruce-Pine-Fir
Related Species
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View speciesAtlantic White Cedar
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View speciesExplore More on Lumberama
Popular Applications
Comparisons
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