Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and fairly coarse; visible flat-sawn cathedral patterns showing high contrast between earlywood and latewood. Distinctive rough-sawn horizontal mill marks are prominent on this specific sample surface.
Color Description
Reddish-brown heartwood with a distinct warm orange-yellow hue; sapwood is typically narrower and lighter yellowish-white. It tends to darken or redden further upon exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack. It is common for structural exterior use if treated or protected.
Common Uses
Heavy structural construction, framing, flooring, veneer, cabinetry, and exterior trim.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, primarily the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain/Clear grades are more expensive).
Wood Age Estimate
Modern rough-cut lumber; likely harvested within the last 10-20 years based on the fresh appearance of the fibers and lack of significant grey weathering.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and frequently FSC certified.
Workability
Generally works well with machine tools though can be prone to splintering and tearout along the grain. It glues and finishes well, though its high resin content can sometimes interfere with paint or certain stains.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous, sweet balsamic scent when cut. Known for the highest strength-to-weight ratio among North American softwoods. Large growth rings indicate rapid growth.
Finish Recommendations
Resin-sealing primer is recommended if painting; otherwise, penetrating oils, polyurethane, or lacquer. Film-forming finishes work well once the surface is sanded smooth.
Identification Confidence
High; the color tone combined with the specific earlywood-to-latewood transition, growth ring density, and 'fuzzy' nature of the rough-cut fibers are characteristic of Douglas Fir.