Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight but prominent; flat-sawn displaying strong cathedral patterns and high contrast between earlywood and latewood growth rings.
Color Description
Natural heartwood is light brown to reddish-brown; however, this sample has a dark mahogany-colored stain applied. Low natural luster, showing significant darkening due to old finish and oxidation.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some natural resistance to decay and rot but susceptible to insect attack if left untreated.
Common Uses
Residential construction Framing, flooring, veneer, cabinetry, and heavy structural timber.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, primarily the Pacific Northwest.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot for select grade clears.
Wood Age Estimate
40-60 years old based on the heavy oxidation of the finish, edge wear, and the style of the parquet assembly.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available with FSC certification; not CITES listed.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though latewood bands can be hard and cause uneven sanding (washboarding). Glues and finishes well, though pitch pockets can be an issue.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high strength-to-weight ratio; characteristic 'abrupt transition' between earlywood and latewood rings which creates the bold visual stripes.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based stains work well to highlight grain, followed by a durable polyurethane topcoat. Due to the wide grain, a sanding sealer or wood conditioner is recommended for even color.
Identification Confidence
High; the wide, bold cathedral grain pattern and the specific way the latewood stands in relief against the soft earlywood is diagnostic of Douglas Fir in a construction/flooring context.