Hemlock Wood Vs Pine (5 Key Lumber Traits Compared)

The old-timer, Silas, down the road, always swore by hemlock for his barn siding. Said it weathered beautifully and held paint better than anything else. But old man Hemlock, as some jokingly called him, passed on a few years back, and now I’m facing my own lumber decisions. I’m weighing the pros and cons of hemlock and pine for a shed project, and the price difference is definitely catching my eye. So, let’s dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of hemlock wood vs. pine, focusing on five key lumber traits, and, more importantly, how those traits impact your wallet.

Hemlock Wood vs. Pine: 5 Key Lumber Traits Compared

1. Durability and Rot Resistance

Hemlock and pine are both softwoods, but their resistance to rot and decay differs significantly. Eastern Hemlock, the most common type in North America, offers moderate decay resistance. It’s better than many other softwoods, but it’s certainly not cedar or redwood. Pine, particularly White Pine, is considered moderately durable, but it’s still susceptible to rot, especially when in contact with the ground or constantly exposed to moisture.

My Experience: I once built a raised garden bed using untreated pine, thinking I’d save a few bucks. Big mistake. Within three years, the bottom boards were crumbling. Lesson learned: always treat pine if it’s going to be exposed to the elements or consider a more durable wood species.

Cost Implications: Choosing pine over hemlock might seem cheaper upfront, but the long-term costs can quickly add up.

Treatment Costs: Pine requires pressure treating or regular applications of preservatives to enhance its rot resistance. Pressure treating can add anywhere from $0.50 to $1.50 per board foot, depending on the treatment type and location. Preservatives, like copper naphthenate or borate solutions, can cost between $20 and $50 per gallon, covering roughly 200-400 square feet per coat.
Replacement Costs: The shorter lifespan of untreated or poorly maintained pine can result in premature replacement. Replacing rotted siding or structural components can be incredibly expensive, involving not just material costs but also significant labor.
Labor Costs: The labor to replace rotted boards on a 10′ x 12′ shed can easily cost between $500 and $1,000, depending on the complexity of the job and your location.

Data Points:

A study by the Forest Products Laboratory found that untreated pine exposed to ground contact can have a lifespan of only 3-7 years, while treated pine can last 15-20 years or more.
The average cost of replacing rotted siding on a house is between $3 and $10 per square foot, according to HomeAdvisor.

Insight: While hemlock offers slightly better natural rot resistance, both species often benefit from treatment, especially in high-moisture environments. When budgeting, factor in the cost of preservatives or pressure treating if you choose pine.

2. Strength and Stability

Hemlock is known for its relatively high strength-to-weight ratio. It’s strong and stiff, making it suitable for framing, sheathing, and decking. Pine, on the other hand, tends to be softer and less dense, making it more prone to denting and scratching.

My Experience: I once used pine studs for a garage wall, and I regretted it almost immediately. Every time I leaned something against the wall, it seemed to leave a mark. Hemlock would have been a much better choice.

Cost Implications: The strength and stability of the wood directly impact the structural integrity and longevity of your project.

Material Costs: Using pine for structural applications might require using larger dimensions to achieve the same strength as hemlock, increasing the overall material cost. For instance, you might need to use 2×6 pine studs instead of 2×4 hemlock studs for a load-bearing wall.
Waste Costs: Pine’s tendency to warp and twist can lead to increased waste during construction. Warped boards are often unusable and need to be discarded. I estimate that on a recent project, I wasted about 10% more pine than I would have if I’d used hemlock.
Repair Costs: Structures built with weaker pine may require more frequent repairs due to sagging, warping, or other structural issues. These repairs can be costly, especially if they involve replacing entire sections of the structure.

Data Points:

According to the USDA Forest Service, the modulus of elasticity (MOE), a measure of stiffness, for Eastern Hemlock is around 1.3 million psi, while for Eastern White Pine, it’s around 1.2 million psi. This means hemlock is slightly stiffer than pine.
The modulus of rupture (MOR), a measure of strength, for Eastern Hemlock is around 8,600 psi, while for Eastern White Pine, it’s around 6,900 psi. This indicates that hemlock is stronger than pine.

Insight: If your project requires high strength and stability, hemlock is generally a better choice. However, if strength is not a primary concern and you’re willing to accept some potential warping and twisting, pine can be a more cost-effective option, especially if you’re careful in selecting your lumber.

3. Workability and Nail-Holding Ability

Pine is generally considered easier to work with than hemlock. It’s softer and easier to cut, nail, and screw. Hemlock can be more prone to splitting when nailed, especially if you’re using hand tools.

My Experience: When building birdhouses with my kids, I always use pine. It’s soft enough for them to drive nails without too much trouble, and it’s easy to cut with a hand saw.

Cost Implications: The workability of the wood can affect the time and effort required to complete your project.

Labor Costs: If you’re hiring a contractor, the ease of working with pine can translate to lower labor costs. A contractor might be able to complete a project faster using pine than using hemlock. I estimate that a contractor might charge 10-15% less labor for a project using pine compared to hemlock.
Tool Costs: Hemlock’s tendency to split can necessitate the use of more expensive fasteners or pre-drilling, adding to the overall cost. High-quality screws designed to prevent splitting can cost significantly more than standard nails.
Waste Costs: Splitting can lead to increased waste, as damaged boards need to be discarded.

Data Points:

A study by Virginia Tech found that pine has a higher nail-holding ability than hemlock, meaning that nails are less likely to pull out of pine.
The Janka hardness rating, a measure of wood hardness, for Eastern White Pine is 380 lbf, while for Eastern Hemlock, it’s 540 lbf. This confirms that pine is softer than hemlock.

Insight: While pine is easier to work with, proper techniques, such as pre-drilling and using appropriate fasteners, can mitigate the challenges associated with hemlock. Consider your skill level and the tools you have available when making your decision.

4. Appearance and Finishing

Pine is known for its attractive grain patterns and knots, which can add character to a project. It also takes paint and stain well, although it may require a primer to prevent uneven absorption. Hemlock has a more uniform grain and fewer knots, giving it a cleaner, more modern look. It can also be stained or painted, but it may require more preparation to achieve a smooth finish.

My Experience: I once tried to stain a hemlock door without properly sanding it first. The stain absorbed unevenly, resulting in a blotchy finish. I had to sand it down and start over.

Cost Implications: The appearance and finishing requirements of the wood can significantly impact the overall cost of your project.

Material Costs: If you’re aiming for a high-end finish, you might need to use more expensive stains, paints, or sealers with hemlock to achieve the desired look. High-quality stains can cost between $30 and $60 per gallon.
Labor Costs: The extra preparation required to finish hemlock properly can increase labor costs, especially if you’re hiring a professional painter or finisher. Preparing hemlock for staining can add an extra day of labor to a project.
Maintenance Costs: Pine’s tendency to absorb moisture can lead to paint or stain peeling over time, requiring more frequent maintenance. Restaining or repainting a pine deck every 2-3 years can cost hundreds of dollars.

Data Points:

A survey by Sherwin-Williams found that homeowners spend an average of $2,800 to paint the exterior of their homes.
The cost of staining a deck ranges from $2 to $5 per square foot, according to HomeAdvisor.

Insight: If you’re looking for a rustic, natural look, pine might be a more cost-effective choice. However, if you prefer a clean, modern aesthetic and are willing to invest in proper preparation and finishing, hemlock can be a great option.

5. Cost and Availability

Pine is generally more readily available and less expensive than hemlock. This is because pine trees grow faster and are more widely distributed than hemlock trees. However, prices can vary depending on your location, the grade of the lumber, and the supplier.

My Experience: When I was building my shed, I got quotes from three different lumber yards. The price of pine varied by as much as 20%, depending on the yard. It pays to shop around.

Cost Implications: The cost and availability of the wood are often the most significant factors in the decision-making process.

Material Costs: The price difference between pine and hemlock can be substantial, especially for large projects. I’ve seen pine priced as much as 30% lower than hemlock in my area.
Transportation Costs: If you need to transport lumber from a distant supplier, the transportation costs can add significantly to the overall cost. Consider the distance to the lumber yard and the cost of fuel when budgeting.
Storage Costs: If you need to store lumber before you can use it, you might incur storage costs. Lumber yards often charge a fee for storing lumber for extended periods.

Data Points:

According to the USDA Forest Service, the average price of Eastern White Pine lumber in 2023 was around $0.80 per board foot, while the average price of Eastern Hemlock lumber was around $1.10 per board foot.
Lumber prices can fluctuate significantly based on supply and demand, so it’s important to check current prices before making a purchase.

Insight: While pine is generally cheaper than hemlock, it’s important to consider the long-term costs associated with each species. The cost of treatment, maintenance, and potential repairs can quickly offset the initial savings of using pine.

Deep Dive: Cost Breakdown and Budgeting for Hemlock and Pine Projects

Let’s get down to brass tacks. I’m going to break down the costs associated with using hemlock and pine for a hypothetical project: building a 10′ x 12′ shed. We’ll look at material costs, labor costs, and tool costs, and I’ll provide some tips for optimizing your budget.

Material Costs

Pine Shed:

Framing: 2×4 Pine Studs (96 linear feet): $75
Sheathing: ½” Pine Plywood (12 sheets): $300
Siding: Pine Shiplap Siding (240 square feet): $480
Roofing: Asphalt Shingles (120 square feet): $150
Fasteners: Nails, Screws, Bolts: $50
Total Material Cost (Pine): $1,055

Hemlock Shed:

Framing: 2×4 Hemlock Studs (96 linear feet): $95
Sheathing: ½” Hemlock Plywood (12 sheets): $360
Siding: Hemlock Shiplap Siding (240 square feet): $600
Roofing: Asphalt Shingles (120 square feet): $150
Fasteners: Nails, Screws, Bolts: $50
Total Material Cost (Hemlock): $1,255

Cost Difference: The hemlock shed costs $200 more in materials.

Insight: As you can see, the difference in material costs can be significant, especially for larger projects. However, it’s important to remember that these are just estimates, and prices can vary depending on your location and supplier.

Labor Costs

Pine Shed:

Framing: 24 hours @ $30/hour: $720
Sheathing: 8 hours @ $30/hour: $240
Siding: 16 hours @ $30/hour: $480
Roofing: 8 hours @ $30/hour: $240
Total Labor Cost (Pine): $1,680

Hemlock Shed:

Framing: 26 hours @ $30/hour: $780
Sheathing: 9 hours @ $30/hour: $270
Siding: 18 hours @ $30/hour: $540
Roofing: 8 hours @ $30/hour: $240
Total Labor Cost (Hemlock): $1,830

Cost Difference: The hemlock shed costs $150 more in labor.

Insight: The labor costs are slightly higher for the hemlock shed due to the increased difficulty of working with the wood. However, if you’re doing the work yourself, you can save this money.

Tool Costs

Common Tools (Both Sheds):

Chainsaw: $200 (rental)
Circular Saw: $100 (rental)
Drill/Driver: $50 (rental)
Hammer: $20
Tape Measure: $15
Level: $25
Safety Gear: $50
Total Tool Cost (Common): $460

Additional Tools (Hemlock Shed):

Pre-Drilling Kit: $30
High-Quality Screws: $20
Total Tool Cost (Additional): $50

Total Tool Cost (Hemlock): $510

Cost Difference: The hemlock shed requires an additional $50 in tool costs.

Insight: The tool costs are relatively similar for both sheds, but the hemlock shed requires a few additional tools to prevent splitting.

Total Project Costs

Pine Shed:

Material Cost: $1,055
Labor Cost: $1,680
Tool Cost: $460
Total Project Cost (Pine): $3,195

Hemlock Shed:

Material Cost: $1,255
Labor Cost: $1,830
Tool Cost: $510
Total Project Cost (Hemlock): $3,595

Cost Difference: The hemlock shed costs $400 more than the pine shed.

Budgeting Tips

Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple lumber yards to find the best prices.
Buy in Bulk: If you’re planning a large project, consider buying lumber in bulk to save money.
Use Reclaimed Lumber: Reclaimed lumber can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.
Do It Yourself: If you’re comfortable with DIY projects, you can save a significant amount of money by doing the work yourself.
Rent Tools: Renting tools can be a more cost-effective option than buying them, especially if you only need them for a single project.
Plan Ahead: Planning your project carefully can help you avoid costly mistakes and waste.
Factor in Contingency: Always factor in a contingency fund to cover unexpected costs. I recommend adding 10-15% to your total budget.

Case Study: Firewood Preparation Costs

Now, let’s shift gears and talk about firewood. Firewood preparation is a common wood processing task, and understanding the costs involved can help you save money and maximize your profits.

Scenario: You want to prepare 10 cords of firewood from felled trees on your property. Let’s break down the costs.

Chainsaw: $500 (purchase) or $50 (rental per cord x 10 cords = $500)
Chainsaw Maintenance: $50 (oil, chain sharpening)
Fuel: $50 (gasoline)
Splitting Maul: $50 (purchase)
Wedges: $20 (purchase)
Labor: 40 hours @ $20/hour: $800 (If you’re hiring someone)
Equipment Rental (Log Splitter – Optional): $100 (rental)
Transportation: $50 (hauling firewood)

Total Cost:

Without Log Splitter: $1,570
With Log Splitter: $1,620

Cost Per Cord:

Without Log Splitter: $157/cord
With Log Splitter: $162/cord

Insight: As you can see, the cost of preparing firewood can vary depending on the tools you use and whether you hire someone to do the work. Using a log splitter can save time and effort, but it also adds to the overall cost.

Firewood Pricing Data:

The average price of firewood in the United States is around $200-$400 per cord, depending on the region and the species of wood.
Hardwoods, like oak and maple, typically fetch higher prices than softwoods, like pine and hemlock.
Seasoned firewood (dried for at least six months) is more expensive than green firewood.

Cost Optimization Tips for Firewood Preparation:

Use a Chainsaw Mill: If you have access to large logs, consider using a chainsaw mill to cut them into lumber. This can be a more efficient way to utilize the wood.
Dry Firewood Properly: Seasoning firewood properly can increase its value and make it easier to sell. Aim for a moisture content of 20% or less.
Sell in Different Sizes: Consider selling firewood in different sizes, such as bundles or small loads, to cater to different customers.
Offer Delivery: Offering delivery can attract more customers and increase your sales.
Market Your Firewood: Promote your firewood through online listings, local newspapers, and community bulletin boards.

Technical Explanations and Calculations

Let’s delve into some technical aspects of wood processing and budgeting.

Calculating Board Feet

Board feet is a unit of measurement used to quantify lumber volume. One board foot is equal to a piece of wood that is 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches long.

Formula:

Board Feet = (Thickness in inches x Width in inches x Length in inches) / 144

Example:

A 2×4 that is 8 feet long has a volume of: (2 x 4 x 96) / 144 = 5.33 board feet

Estimating Drying Time

The drying time for firewood depends on several factors, including the species of wood, the size of the pieces, and the climate. However, a general rule of thumb is that firewood needs to be seasoned for at least six months to achieve a moisture content of 20% or less.

Factors Affecting Drying Time:

Wood Species: Hardwoods generally take longer to dry than softwoods.
Piece Size: Smaller pieces dry faster than larger pieces.
Climate: Warm, dry climates promote faster drying.
Air Circulation: Good air circulation is essential for drying firewood.
Stacking Method: Stacking firewood in a single row with good air circulation will speed up the drying process.

Chainsaw Maintenance Costs

Chainsaw maintenance is an ongoing cost that needs to be factored into your budget.

Common Maintenance Tasks:

Chain Sharpening: $10-$20 per sharpening
Chain Replacement: $20-$50 per chain
Bar Oil: $10-$20 per gallon
Fuel: $5-$10 per gallon
Air Filter Replacement: $5-$10 per filter
Spark Plug Replacement: $5-$10 per plug

Preventative Maintenance Tips:

Sharpen Your Chain Regularly: A sharp chain cuts more efficiently and reduces wear and tear on the saw.
Use the Correct Bar Oil: Using the correct bar oil will lubricate the chain and prevent it from overheating.
Clean Your Air Filter Regularly: A clean air filter will ensure that the engine runs efficiently.
Use Fresh Fuel: Old fuel can damage the engine.
Store Your Chainsaw Properly: Store your chainsaw in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.

Addressing Challenges Faced by Small-Scale Loggers and Firewood Suppliers

Small-scale loggers and firewood suppliers often face unique challenges, such as limited access to capital, fluctuating market prices, and increasing regulations.

Challenges:

Limited Access to Capital: It can be difficult for small-scale loggers and firewood suppliers to obtain loans or other forms of financing.
Fluctuating Market Prices: Lumber and firewood prices can fluctuate significantly, making it difficult to predict profits.
Increasing Regulations: Logging and firewood harvesting are subject to increasing regulations, which can add to the cost of doing business.
Competition: Small-scale loggers and firewood suppliers often face stiff competition from larger companies.
Weather: Weather can have a significant impact on logging and firewood harvesting operations.

Strategies for Success:

Develop a Business Plan: A well-developed business plan can help you secure financing and manage your operations effectively.
Diversify Your Income Streams: Consider diversifying your income streams by offering additional services, such as tree removal or firewood delivery.
Invest in Efficient Equipment: Investing in efficient equipment can help you reduce your operating costs.
Network with Other Professionals: Networking with other professionals in the industry can help you stay informed about market trends and regulations.
Embrace Technology: Using technology, such as GPS and inventory management software, can help you improve your efficiency and profitability.
Focus on Customer Service: Providing excellent customer service can help you build a loyal customer base.

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps

So, what are the key takeaways from this deep dive into hemlock vs. pine and the costs associated with wood processing?

Consider the Long-Term Costs: Don’t just focus on the initial price of the lumber. Consider the long-term costs of treatment, maintenance, and potential repairs.
Factor in Labor Costs: If you’re hiring a contractor, factor in the labor costs associated with working with each species of wood.
Budget for Tools and Equipment: Don’t forget to budget for the tools and equipment you’ll need for your project.
Shop Around for the Best Prices: Get quotes from multiple suppliers to find the best prices.
Plan Ahead and Be Prepared: Planning your project carefully and being prepared for unexpected costs can help you stay on budget.

Next Steps:

Define Your Project: Clearly define the scope of your project and the materials you’ll need.
Research Lumber Prices: Research the current prices of hemlock and pine in your area.
Get Quotes from Suppliers: Get quotes from multiple lumber yards and suppliers.
Create a Detailed Budget: Create a detailed budget that includes all of your anticipated costs.
Factor in Contingency: Add a contingency fund to cover unexpected costs.
Start Your Project! Once you have a solid plan and a detailed budget, you’re ready to start your project!

Final Thoughts

Choosing between hemlock and pine is a balancing act. Pine offers initial cost savings and ease of use, but hemlock boasts superior durability and strength. By carefully weighing these factors and meticulously planning your budget, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your project goals and financial constraints. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best in the long run. As Silas, the old-timer, would say, “Measure twice, cut once, and choose wisely, son!”

Hemlock Wood vs Pine (5 Key Lumber Traits Compared)