Western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) is the most plentiful tree species on the coast of British Columbia. It is commonly sold and shipped together with amabilis fir under the name Hem-Fir (also often referred to as Hem-Bal). Western hemlock is used for general construction, roof decking and plywood, as well as for laminating stock and the production of glue-laminated and solid beams.

Hem-Fir is primarily available as structural lumber for North America, Japan and other export markets. In North America structural grades follow National Lumber Grades Authority (NLGA) rules, and Select Structural, #2 and better, and stud grades are the most common.