Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. This sample is vertical grain (quarter-sawn), showing consistent, tight growth rings with a distinct transition between light-colored earlywood and darker, reddish-brown latewood.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a light yellowish-brown to a reddish-orange; sapwood is a paler yellowish-white. The color tends to darken and redden over time when exposed to UV light. It possesses a moderate natural luster.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot and decay, though it is susceptible to insect attack. It is among the strongest and most durable of common softwoods.
Common Uses
Heavy structural timber, plywood, veneers, flooring, interior trim, window and door frames, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest through the Rocky Mountains).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $8.00 per board foot (Vertical Grain/Clear Grade).
Wood Age Estimate
The board appears freshly milled or recently planed given the lack of significant graying or oxidation, likely from timber harvested within the last 10-20 years based on ring density.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and harvested from sustainably managed forests. FSC-certified options are common.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can be prone to splintering and tearout during machining. Gluing, staining, and finishing are generally good, but it can be prone to 'bleed' through finishes due to resin content.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous, sweet odor when worked. Exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. Very prominent growth ring contrast compared to other softwoods.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or clear lacquers work well. If staining, a pre-stain wood conditioner is highly recommended to prevent blotchiness between the earlywood and latewood bands.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight vertical grain, specific color transition of the growth rings, and context of being in a workshop setting are highly characteristic of high-grade Douglas Fir.