The term softwood has nothing to do with the actual hardness/softness of the wood. They are one of the botanical groups of trees that, in most cases, have needlelike or scale like growths rather than broad leaves. These trees are known as conifers.
West Wind Hardwood’s softwood inventory is almost exclusively high end lumber and timber products. Our primary objective is both appearance and serviceability. Clear vertical grain is our specialty, however, we handle select tight knot material and have a limited stock of lower grade material. We supply custom lumber and timbers for yachts, canoes & kayaks and houses of all types. We offer a selection of cuts: vertical or edge grain, merchant quality and appearance grade in boards, dimensional lumber and timbers. Duplicating millwork and flooring for historical homes is just one example of the kind of project we welcome. Delivering quality lumber every time, ensuring your satisfaction is our guarantee. We invite you to browse our selection of softwood species below.
“Just a note to let you know I received the wood. Yes it is beautiful wood. I appreciate how
all was done as requested and in such short notice. You will hear from me again...”
Arnim of ShamaWood
Historically, this wood came from Cuba. It now primarily comes from Brazil. Sadly it has been identified as an endangered species by the International Organization, CITES. Traditionally it is used for the making of cigar humidors, however, the presence of gum presents some difficulty in staining and polishing.Not a true cedar.
This is a species of the Pacific Northwest with deep historical and anthropological value. The colour varies from dark chocolate-brown to salmon pink. It is much sought after for all levels of the boating industry with a density of approx. 23 lbs/ft3. The wood weathers to a silver grey; a much sought after appearance by architects. All manner of grades and sizes; from old growth to second-growth through recycled.
The heartwood is a uniform reddish-brown colour with an aromatic scent. This fragrant wood is used for linen and blanket chests as the "moths" do not like it.
This is a Pacific Northwest species that has a unique scent when worked. The heartwood is a pale yellow colour, and has a fine, even texture. The density is approx. 31 lbs/ft3.
This is a tree from the Pacific Northwest where the climate demands a heavier, harder and stronger timber than an interior grown tree. There is a reason to request coastal lumber. The heartwood is a light reddish brown, maturing to a rich orange-red. This is fast becoming the architects' darling. The approx. density is 33 lbs/ft3.
All manner of grades and sizes; from old growth to second-growth through recycled. Try our “toredo” species.
Complementary plywood (furniture and marine grade) and veneer available.
Otherwise known as Western yellow pine or knotty pine, this is a pale yellow wood known for it plentiful knots. In its pre-milled state, this is a wood to save you money and time!!
This is a domestically grown tree. The heartwood is a pale straw colour. It is lightweight and easily milled. We consider this as a species with value-added potential. This tree has a density of approx. 30 lbs/ft3.
Grown in California and Oregon only. Ensure you purchase lumber from reputable, managed dealers. Why use redwood when Western Red Cedar is a more mature choice?
Sitka is the Queen of the Pacific Northwest. She is a magnificent species that commands respect. The wood is creamy-white with a pink tinge and extremely straight grained. The wood is non-resinous and odourless with a density of approx. 27 lbs/ft3. “Trains, planes andautomobiles”………….well maybe not trains. How about boats!!
Not to be misconstrued with the European variety, this is indigenous to the Pacific Northwest. Its European cousin has a long-standing history in European warfare. Our local stock shares common values such as bending and crushing strengths; it is springy. We offer boards with a live edge and like arbutus there is some natural twist. On maturity, the colour becomes a magnificent “cognac” orange. It is Shelley’s favourite.