Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a prominent transition between light-colored earlywood and darker reddish-brown latewood; the sample shows a flat-sawn cathedral pattern and some tight vertical grain (quartersawn) on the right side.
Color Description
Light brown to reddish-orange heartwood with paler yellowish sapwood. It darkens and reddens significantly over time when exposed to UV light. High luster in vertical grain sections.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot and decay but is susceptible to insect attack (beetles/termites).
Common Uses
Structural framing, heavy timbers, flooring, plywood veneer, window and door frames, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Native to Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains) and widely planted in Europe and New Zealand.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on grade (clear vertical grain commands higher prices).
Wood Age Estimate
The surface oxidation and yellowing suggest a sample that is between 5 and 15 years old since being milled.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Generally works well with machine and hand tools, though it can be prone to splintering and tearout during machining. High resin content can occasionally gum up blades.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous, sweet balsamic scent when worked; known for having one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios among softwoods.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains reasonably well but a wood conditioner is recommended to prevent blotching. Finishes beautiful with oil-based polyurethanes or clear lacquers to highlight the grain contrast.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct contrast between earlywood and latewood rings combined with the specific reddish-orange hue and tight growth rings are characteristic of Douglas Fir.