Douglas Fir — Pseudotsuga menziesii

Douglas Fir

Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Softwood
Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains)
Hardness
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability
Moderately Durable; possesses moderate natural resistance to decay, but susceptible to insect attack in untreated conditions.

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Grain Pattern

Straight to slightly wavy grain with prominent, sharp transitions between earlywood and latewood bands; flat-sawn to rift face showing small pin knots and a pronounced central pitch seam or bark pocket/shake defect.

Color & Appearance

Light reddish-brown to light yellowish-tan with darker, distinct reddish-orange latewood growth rings; light sapwood. Darkens and reddens with exposure to UV light and air.

Hardness (Janka)

660 lbf (Soft)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable; possesses moderate natural resistance to decay, but susceptible to insect attack in untreated conditions.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

$1.50 - $3.50 per board foot (standard dimensional framing lumber)

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled dimensional lumber, likely less than 1-2 years since harvest, showing active sawmill conveyor context and unweathered surface.

Common Uses

Structural lumber, framing, beams, glulam members, plywood, veneer, exterior millwork, and heavy timber construction.

Geographic Origin

Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains)

Workability

Generally works easily with machine and hand tools, though the pronounced contrast between soft earlywood and dense latewood can cause uneven sanding or tearing during cross-grain planing. Holds fasteners well.

Finish Recommendations

Accepts standard oil- or water-based exterior and interior finishes, polyurethane, or penetrating exterior sealers. A sanding sealer or pre-stain conditioner is recommended prior to staining to prevent blotchiness from uneven ring density.

Notable Features

Distinctive resinous, sweet pine-like aroma when freshly cut; prominent, sharply defined growth rings; presence of resin/pitch pockets.

Learn more about Douglas Fir in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 29, 2026