Larch (Larix) is a softwood species from the larch tree, one of the few conifers that loses its needles in winter. Larch is comparable to Douglas fir in terms of durability and appearance, but has a slightly more even grain and lighter colour. It is popular for cladding, garden timber, and structural outdoor use.
Characteristics
| Property | Larch |
|---|---|
| Durability class | III (moderately durable) |
| Lifespan outdoors (untreated) | 15-20 years |
| Colour | Yellowish-brown (weathers to silver-grey) |
| Density | approx. 550 kg/m3 |
| Hardness | Comparable to Douglas fir |
| Grain | Finer and more regular than Douglas fir |
Larch vs. Douglas fir
| Larch | Douglas fir | |
|---|---|---|
| Colour | Yellowish-brown, lighter | Reddish-brown, warmer |
| Grain | Finer, more regular | Coarser, more pronounced |
| Resin | Less resin bleed | More resin bleed |
| Durability | Comparable | Comparable |
| Price | Comparable | Comparable |
| Availability | Good (Siberian larch popular) | Good |
In practice, Douglas fir and larch are interchangeable. The choice is often aesthetic: Douglas fir is warmer/redder, larch is lighter/more uniform.
Types of larch
- Siberian larch — The most widely sold. Slow-grown, dense, and durable. Fine, straight grain.
- European larch — Faster-grown, slightly less durable. Wider annual rings.
Siberian larch is the better choice for outdoor applications.
Applications
- Cladding — Weatherboard, featheredge boards
- Pergolas and covered structures — Structural and visible timber
- Sheds and garden houses — Exterior cladding
- Fences — Durable alternative to pressure-treated wood
- Deck substructure — Joists (deck boards themselves often hardwood)
Points to note
- Weathering — Like Douglas fir, larch weathers to silver-grey. Can be prevented with oil.
- Pre-drill — Harder than spruce, always pre-drill for screws.
- Not all larch is equal — Siberian larch is more durable than European larch. Pay attention when purchasing.
Related terms
- Douglas fir
- Softwood
- Weatherboard
- Thermowood