Tamarack/Larch Wood Guide 2026
Larix laricina
Tamarack is a unique deciduous conifer native to northern North America. Its heartwood is moderately decay-resistant, hard for a softwood, and features a warm reddish-brown color with prominent growth rings. Tamarack has historically been used for boat frames, railroad ties, fence posts, and utility poles. Its natural durability and stiffness make it a strong performer in ground-contact and structural applications.
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 36 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Softwood
- Origin: United States, Canada
- Price: ~$4.25 per board foot
- Common uses include Boat building, fence posts, railroad ties
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Medium to coarse with uneven texture.
Workability: Moderate to work but can dull blades due to resin pockets.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Takes stains and finishes well but resin removal is recommended.
Color change: Light brown to reddish-brown heartwood with little change upon exposure.
Insect resistance: Moderate resistance to rot and decay.
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 Tamarack/Larch. 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Random widths 4 inches to 12 inches common. | Random lengths 8 feet to 16 feet common. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths 4 inches to 12 inches common. | Random lengths 8 feet to 16 feet common. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths 4 inches to 12 inches common.
- Lengths
- Random lengths 8 feet to 16 feet common.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths 4 inches to 12 inches common.
- Lengths
- Random lengths 8 feet to 16 feet common.
Decking & exterior profiles
Commonly available in standard radius-edge decking profiles.
Availability notes: Widely available in northern North American regions.
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: Yellowish brown to russet heartwood with narrow white sapwood; prominent growth ring contrast
Grain: Straight grain with a fine to medium texture; oily feel
Common Uses
- Boat building
- fence posts
- railroad ties
- utility poles
- flooring
- decking
- framing
Key Characteristics
Also known as: American Larch, Eastern Larch, Hackmatack
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 590 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Moderately Durable
- Sourced from United States, Canada
- Affordable pricing
Considerations
- Pre-drilling recommended for fasteners
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Tamarack/Larch is unavailable or over budget.
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