Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America, ranging from British Columbia down through California and the Rocky Mountains.
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, with moderate resistance to decay and weathering, though susceptible to insect attack if left untreated outdoors.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with distinct flat-sawn cathedral growth rings and a prominent tight knot feature.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to yellowish-brown heartwood with a paler yellowish-white sapwood, exhibiting moderate natural luster and darkening to a deeper amber hue upon prolonged exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, with moderate resistance to decay and weathering, though susceptible to insect attack if left untreated outdoors.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 2.50 to 5.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and dimensions.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively modern construction lumber, approximately 10 to 30 years old, based on surface wear and residual paint patches.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available with abundant plantation-grown supplies and good FSC certification availability.
Common Uses
Construction framing, plywood, flooring, heavy timber construction, doors, and exterior decking.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, ranging from British Columbia down through California and the Rocky Mountains.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the sharp contrast in density between earlywood and latewood can sometimes cause splintering or tearout during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, varnishes, penetrating oils, and paints very well, though knot sealing primer is recommended to prevent bleed-through over resinous knots.
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, prominent growth ring contrast, characteristic resin canals, and a mild, pleasant resiny scent.
