Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a medium to coarse texture; visible growth rings showing a strong contrast between earlywood and latewood
Color Description
Light brown to reddish-brown heartwood with a narrower, yellowish sapwood; tends to darken slightly toward a more orange-red hue with age and UV exposure
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay and rot but is susceptible to insect attack
Common Uses
Heavy construction, structural framing, flooring, veneer, cabinetry, and exterior joinery
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.50 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain vs. Select)
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/modern rough-cut lumber; visible circular saw marks suggests industrial processing from late 20th to 21st century
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed; generally considered sustainable and widely available with FSC certification options
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can split during nailing and some tearout can occur during planing if knots are present
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high strength-to-weight ratio for a softwood; prominent contrast in seasonal growth rings
Finish Recommendations
Takes most stains and finishes well; a sanding sealer is recommended to prevent blotchiness when staining
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the reddish-brown hue, strong earlywood/latewood contrast, and the circular saw marks on structural-grade lumber are diagnostic for Douglas Fir