In keeping with many of the older barns in these parts (Vermont), I have been working pretty much exclusively with hemlock for my structures. Sills, frame, sub-flooring, siding. I get my timbers, boards, dimensional lumber, etc. from a third generation mill. The owner really knows his trees and, so far, I haven't had any problems with the wood (except the fact that it is so bloody heavy when green). After nearly 100 years in the business, this particular mill seems to be able to reliably pick the trees that are not prone to the problems one often associates with hemlock.
Best,
~ Kevin
