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NAME/S
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Tsuga heterophylla
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SUB NAMES/S
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Western Hemlock
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ORIGIN
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Western Canada and USA.
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APPEARANCE
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Similar to Douglas fir and Spruce in character - white to pale brown, with an even straight grain and definitive growth rings.
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MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
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Not as strong as Douglas fir but stronger than Spruce and has an approximate density of 510 kg/m⊃. Hemlock is not suitable for use in exposed situations.
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AVAILABILITY
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Hemlock is available in square edged kiln dried boards
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USE AS TIMBER CUTS FEATURES
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Occasionally used for constructional work as an alternative to Douglas Fir where the lower strength is acceptable and a decay resistant timber is not required. e.g. interior woodwork, flooring and other internal applications where a fairly high grade softwood is required.
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USE AS VENEER CUTS APPEARANCES
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Hemlock is available as a decorative veneers
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RELATIVE COST/of 10
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5
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PROPERTIES-MACHINING, FINISHING
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The wood works well in all hand and machining operations.The wood takes nails and screws well and is less inclined to split than Douglas fir. Satisfactory results can be achieved with staining, painting and polishing.
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SEASONING
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Seasons more slowly than Douglas fir but, with care, can be dried in a kiln without much distortion. Shrinkage when seasoning is considerable after which the timber is moderately stable in use.
