Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America, from British Columbia down through California and the Rocky Mountains
- Hardness
- 710 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, with fair resistance to decay and weathering depending on heartwood content
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a prominent cathedral pattern typical of flat-sawn softwood lumber
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown heartwood with yellowish-white sapwood, moderate natural luster, darkens to a warm amber or deep reddish-brown upon exposure to light and air
Hardness (Janka)
710 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, with fair resistance to decay and weathering depending on heartwood content
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade, clear vertical grain availability, and dimensions
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated between 10 to 30 years based on surface oxidation, dryness, and minor weathering marks
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN Least Concern, widely available with sustainable plantation and secondary-growth management
Common Uses
Construction, structural framing, plywood, flooring, doors, beams, and large-scale timber framing
Geographic Origin
Western North America, from British Columbia down through California and the Rocky Mountains
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though high contrast between earlywood and latewood can cause uneven sanding and tearout if tools are not sharp
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, varnishes, oils, and paints very well; sealers recommended for exterior applications to prevent UV graying
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct earlywood and latewood banding, pleasant resinous scent when freshly cut
