Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America, particularly the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions.
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with prominent growth rings showing distinct earlywood and latewood transition, featuring a noticeable tight knot pattern.
Color & Appearance
Light yellowish-orange to reddish-brown heartwood with a lighter yellowish-sapwood. Exhibits moderate natural luster and darkens to a richer amber or reddish-brown hue upon prolonged exposure to light and air.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.00 to $4.00 per board foot for standard construction or select grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent-cut kiln-dried or air-dried dimensional lumber, estimated between 1 to 10 years old based on fresh surface oxidation and light patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed and generally of least concern according to the IUCN. Widely available through commercial timber plantations and certified sustainably managed forests (FSC).
Common Uses
Construction and framing, plywood, veneer, exterior decking, flooring, doors, and timber frame structures.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, particularly the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the significant density difference between earlywood and latewood can sometimes cause uneven planing or sanding if tools are not kept exceptionally sharp.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, paints, varnishes, and penetrating oils well. Pre-conditioning may be helpful for even stain absorption due to the varying density of earlywood and latewood rings.
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, prominent grain contrast, distinct resin scent when freshly cut, and excellent structural integrity.
