Western Larch (Tamarack)
Larix occidentalis
Hardness
On the soft side; easy to work, but marks with hard use.
Overview
An unusually hard, strong softwood with decent decay resistance, a deciduous conifer. Tough and stiff like Douglas fir, good for flooring and exterior work.
Commonly built
- Flooring
- Framing
- Decking
- Boats
Appearance
Russet to reddish-brown heartwood with narrow pale sapwood and bold growth rings; resembles a harder, redder Douglas fir.
Recommended uses
Uses to avoid
Similar species
Comparable on hardness, type, and workability, useful when this species isn't available.
Working notes
Hard and strong for a softwood, holds fasteners well but can split, and pitch pockets are common. Moderately decay-resistant. Stiff and durable, suitable for flooring and exterior use. Takes finish reasonably.
Wood movement
A 24-inch-wide flatsawn western larch (tamarack) panel moves roughly 0.50 inch across a typical seasonal humidity swing (about 6% to 12% moisture content). Use the wood movement calculator to run your own board size and moisture range.
How much does Western Larch (Tamarack) move? → See flatsawn vs. quartersawn figures and a worked example.
Common questions
How hard is Western Larch (Tamarack)?
Western Larch (Tamarack) has a Janka hardness of 830 lbf, a measure of how well it resists denting and wear.
Is Western Larch (Tamarack) suitable for outdoor use?
Western Larch (Tamarack) stands up reasonably well outdoors, especially with a protective finish and regular maintenance.
How easy is Western Larch (Tamarack) to work with?
Western Larch (Tamarack) has Fair workability for cutting, shaping, and joinery.
How much does Western Larch (Tamarack) move seasonally?
A 24-inch-wide flatsawn western larch (tamarack) panel moves roughly 0.50 inch across a typical seasonal humidity swing (about 6% to 12% moisture content).
Community photos
Real photos from woodworkers who've used western larch (tamarack), reviewed before they appear here.
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Wood data varies by source and sample. How we source and review our data.