Douglas Fir (Old-Growth) / Longleaf Yellow Pine
Pseudotsuga menziesii (or Pinus palustris) · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Pacific Northwest (Douglas Fir) or Southeastern United States (Heart Pine)
- Hardness
- 620 - 870 lbf (Soft to Medium, though old-growth specimens feature much higher surface density)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; good natural resistance to rot and fungal decay when protected indoors
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Grain Pattern
Vertical grain / quarter-sawn with very tight, dense earlywood and latewood growth rings, displaying fine straight parallel lines
Color & Appearance
Rich reddish-orange heartwood tone with golden-brown undertones, enhanced by aged varnish ambering and natural oxidation over decades
Hardness (Janka)
620 - 870 lbf (Soft to Medium, though old-growth specimens feature much higher surface density)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; good natural resistance to rot and fungal decay when protected indoors
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 - $16.00 per board foot (reclaimed old-growth vertical grain)
- Wood Age Estimate
- 70 to 100+ years old (typical late 19th to early/mid-20th century construction trim)
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); old-growth is now protected and primarily sourced via architectural reclamation
Common Uses
Historic millwork, interior trim, architectural casings, solid doors, structural timbers, and vintage flooring
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest (Douglas Fir) or Southeastern United States (Heart Pine)
Workability
Cuts cleanly along straight vertical grain; can tend to splinter along distinct latewood bands if tools are dull
Finish Recommendations
Traditional amber shellac, clear polyurethane, or penetrating oil finishes to accentuate the rich natural orange-red tones
Notable Features
Extremely high ring density characteristic of virgin forest growth, strong pitch resin content, and classic warm historic patina
