Timber Industry Insights

Field-tested knowledge from our Arlington, WA operation. Articles on Douglas Fir, timber framing, pricing, and the trade.

Western Red Cedar siding boards at Washington Timber Company mill yard
douglas fir · June 3, 2026

Douglas Fir vs Western Red Cedar: Choosing the Right PNW Timber

Both are iconic Pacific Northwest species, but Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar perform very differently. A practical comparison to help you choose the right timber for your build.

5 min read
Aerial view of timber-framed equestrian arena with Cascade mountains backdrop
project spotlights · June 3, 2026

Building an Equestrian Arena: Timber Specs and What to Budget

Planning a covered equestrian arena? Here's what timber you'll need, common sizes for different arena footprints, budget ranges, and how to plan your build.

5 min read
Log truck delivering Douglas Fir logs to Washington Timber Company mill
pricing guides · June 3, 2026

How to Order Custom Heavy Timber: A Step-by-Step Guide

The complete process for ordering custom Douglas Fir timbers, from initial spec to delivery. What to send, what to expect, and how to avoid common mistakes that delay projects.

6 min read
Loading a massive Douglas Fir log at Washington Timber Company mill in Arlington, WA
project spotlights · June 3, 2026

Inside Our Arlington Mill: How We Cut Oversized Douglas Fir

Washington Timber Company has milled Douglas Fir from our Arlington, WA location since 1977. A look at how we operate, what we cut, and why oversized timber is our specialty.

6 min read
Aerial view of Washington Timber Company mill operation in Arlington, WA
industry insights · June 3, 2026

Mill-Direct vs Lumber Yard: Why It Matters for Heavy Timber Buyers

How mill direct heavy timber pricing compares with buying through a lumber yard, what drives the yard markup, and when each one is still the right call.

6 min read
Massive old growth Douglas Fir log at Washington Timber Company mill
douglas fir · June 3, 2026

Old Growth vs Second Growth Douglas Fir: Which to Specify for Your Project

Old growth and second growth Douglas Fir look similar but perform differently. A practical guide to when each makes sense, what they cost, and how to specify the right one.

5 min read

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