softwood · Larix occidentalis
Western Larch wood properties
Also known as: tamarack, hackmatack.
| Type | softwood |
|---|---|
| Botanical name | Larix occidentalis |
| Modulus of elasticity (MOE) | 1,870,000 psi |
| Specific gravity | 0.58 |
| Density (approx) | 36 lb/ft³ (3.0 lb per board foot) |
| Janka hardness | 830 lbf |
| Shrinkage (tangential / radial) | 9.1% / 4.5% |
| Region | Northwestern North America |
A 1 in x 6 in x 8 ft board of Western Larch weighs about 12.1 lb (roughly 36 lb per cubic foot). Its Janka hardness of 830 lbf is harder than about 36% of the woods in our database.
Uses and working notes
Common uses: construction lumber, glue-laminated beams, flooring, plywood, veneer.
Durability: Shows moderate resistance to decay.
Workability: Performs well across most hand and machine work, though its silica dulls edges.
Use this data
Similar woods
Woods with comparable hardness and density to Western Larch:
How these numbers were sourced
MOE, SG (12% MC), Janka and shrinkage from The Wood Database (cites USDA FPL Wood Handbook). Western Larch is not listed in the FPL/Hoadley dimensional change coefficient table, so CT/CR are omitted. Uses, region, durability and workability summarized from The Wood Database. Price indicative.
Values shown as estimates rather than sourced constants: typicalPricePerBF_usd.
Sources
These calculators are for planning and estimation. Engineering results (shelf sag, wood movement) use published average material properties; real boards vary by grade, grain, moisture and defects. Verify load-bearing designs with a professional.