Douglas Fir (or reclaimed Softwood Pine/Fir timber)
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood / Reclaimed timber
- Type
- Softwood / Reclaimed timber
- Origin
- Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains)
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft to Medium Soft classification)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable to Moderately Durable; moderate resistance to decay when kept dry indoors, though vulnerable to insect attack if exposed to high moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with prominent, pronounced earlywood and latewood growth rings typical of flat-sawn softwood. Features rough-sawn saw marks and minor surface checking.
Color & Appearance
Warm golden-amber to orangey-brown color with reddish-brown latewood bands. Developed an aged, warm patina with light exposure, typical of seasoned mantel timbers.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft to Medium Soft classification)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable to Moderately Durable; moderate resistance to decay when kept dry indoors, though vulnerable to insect attack if exposed to high moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on beam dimensions, age, and level of distress/reclaimed character.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20 to 50+ years old; displays oxidation patina and authentic circular or band saw blade texture consistent with vintage or reclaimed structural beams.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely managed and sustainably harvested throughout North America with FSC certifications readily available.
Common Uses
Fireplace mantels, architectural timber beams, heavy construction framing, rustic furniture, interior paneling, and decking.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains)
Workability
Easy to moderately easy to work with hand and machine tools. Tends to splinter along prominent latewood bands when crosscutting or hand planing rough-sawn surfaces.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating hard-wax oil or matte polyurethane to seal the raised fibers without obscuring the natural rough-sawn texture and rich honey patina.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous/pine scent when freshly cut; prominent raised grain contrast; light density; dynamic warmth as a rustic architectural mantelpiece.
