Updated Design Values for Hem-Fir (N) Dimension Lumber in the Canadian and U.S. Markets

Canadian Wood Council
April 30, 2025
Category: Wood, Paper & Green Building
Region: Canada

The Canadian Wood Council is pleased to share the latest updates from the National Lumber Grades Authority (NLGA) regarding the design values for Hem-Fir (N) dimension lumber, effective April 1, 2025. These updates reflect a routine reassessment of strength and stiffness properties, ensuring Hem-Fir (N) continues to meet structural performance expectations. Builders, designers, and engineers can expect:

  • Minimal practical impact on most applications
  • Consistent performance, with design values closely aligned with previous standards for most applications
  • No effect on existing construction built under previous building codes

The revised values are included in the NLGA Standard Grading Rules for Canadian Lumber ,CSA O86 – Engineering Design in Wood, and the National Design Specification® (NDS®) Supplement for Wood Construction. For detailed design value changes, affected grades, and implementation guidance, consult the FAQ document for Canada or the USA.

Read More