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Species

Because of its climate, British Columbia, Canada, has the best quality of softwood in the world. Its cold weather makes trees grow tighter and straight.

Each species has character. We mainly use Douglas fir, but we occasionally use Western red cedar and yellow cedar, which are available. Larch, spruce, and pine are also available, but it doesn't make sense to use these species in our frames.

Douglas fir

Douglas fir has the most strength among the above species. Its fibre is flexible and easy to work with. It shrinks more than cedar, but depending on the grain, its movements are small enough that we can use it as structural material. Larch has similar characteristics and has more strength than Douglas fir. However, it moves much more and checks more, which is the reason we don’t use it.

Western red cedar

Western red cedar is the most durable in weather among these species. It shrinks only half as much as Douglas fir does. Stain applies very well on this wood. But its strength is not great. To establish the same strength as Douglas fir, its dimensions have to be increased in a couple of stages. Its fibre is not flexible, so it breaks easily. Also, we've found that some people are allergic to cedar, so it is strongly recommended to check for allergies before using this wood.

Yellow cedar

Yellow cedar has the good characteristics of both Douglas fir and Western red cedar. It has strength and durability in weather. We often use this wood for sill materials because it is durable against moisture. Because the colour seems flat, some people think it is not interesting. As with Western red cedar, some people are allergic to this wood.