Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America, from British Columbia down through California and the Rocky Mountains
- Hardness
- 710 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, with good resistance to weathering but susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to persistent moisture
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Grain Pattern
Straight, vertical grain, quarter-sawn with tight, uniform growth rings
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown heartwood with pale yellowish-white sapwood, moderate natural luster, darkens to a deep reddish-brown with age and UV exposure
Hardness (Janka)
710 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, with good resistance to weathering but susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to persistent moisture
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and vertical grain quality
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20-50 years old based on clean surface appearance, moderate oxidation, and modern milling marks
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN Least Concern, widely available from sustainably managed plantations and certified forests (FSC)
Common Uses
Structural framing, plywood, veneer, flooring, doors, window frames, boat building, and heavy timber construction
Geographic Origin
Western North America, from British Columbia down through California and the Rocky Mountains
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though high-speed cutters are recommended to avoid tearout on interlocked grain; glues and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, varnishes, polyurethanes, and oils well; conditioning may be needed to achieve uniform staining due to density differences between earlywood and latewood
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct contrast between earlywood and latewood bands, characteristic resin canals, and a pleasant fresh pine scent
