Unlike
other window makers, we use Coastal Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga Menziesii
to be botanically precise) as the standard species in our frames and
sashes. This tightly grained wood does more than just give our windows
a rich, warm texture— it’s also naturally tough and
resilient, yet
remarkably workable, meaning it is ideal for precision milling and
capable of holding the smallest, most intricate detailing.
To
enhance our wood’s high natural resistance to moisture
absorption,
decay and insect infestation, every Loewen wood component is treated
with a water repellant/wood preservative sealant before assembly.
- Douglas
Fir is North America’s most plentiful softwood species,
accounting for
one-fifth of the continent’s total softwood reserves.
- Roughly
88% of the Douglas Fir purchased by Loewen comes from forestland that
is Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) certified. In addition to SFI
certification, many of our Douglas Fir suppliers in Canada are ISO
14001 and/or CSA certified.
- Douglas Fir
— different, durable. The ideal species for fenestration and
a hallmark of the Loewen brand.
Windows
and doors are active components. They are opened and closed —
even
slammed! Tight, stable joinery and the ability of fasteners and
hardware to remain solidly attached are key factors in a long,
dependable working life for your home’s fenestration.
| |
Specific Gravity (density) |
Impact Strength (drop height causing complete failure) |
Compression Strength (parallel to grain) |
Compression Strength (perpendicular to grain) |
Hardness (load perpendicular to grain) |
Resistance To Decay
|
| |
Weight/
Volume |
Inches |
Psi |
Psi |
lbs |
USFS
Grade |
| Douglas
Fir |
0.48 |
31.0 |
7320 |
800 |
710 |
Moderate |
| Western
Hemlock |
0.45 |
23.0 |
7200 |
550 |
540 |
Slightly
to nonresistant |
| Ponderosa
Pine |
0.40 |
19.0 |
5320 |
580 |
420 |
Slightly
to nonresistant |
Source: United States Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, Wood Handbook, Table 3-10
| |
Nail |
Screw |
Hinge |
| Douglas
Fir |
189
lbs |
527
lbs |
733
lbs |
| Ponderosa
Pine |
98
lbs |
392
lbs |
486
lbs |
Source: MacMillan Bloedel Research