Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America and Pacific Northwest
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, with fair resistance to decay and weathering depending on heartwood content
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Grain Pattern
Straight, flat-sawn with prominent growth ring contrast showing a clear cathedral pattern
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to yellowish-brown heartwood with a lighter yellowish sapwood, moderate natural luster, and darkens to a deeper reddish-brown upon prolonged exposure to light and air
Hardness (Janka)
660 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 USD per board foot depending on grade and dimensions
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20 to 50 years based on surface oxidation and minor weathering markers
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, generally considered of least concern by the IUCN, widely available and sustainably managed in tree farms and forests
Common Uses
Construction, framing, flooring, plywood, heavy timber construction, doors, window sashes, and boat building
Geographic Origin
Western North America and Pacific Northwest
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the pronounced difference in density between earlywood and latewood can sometimes cause uneven planing or sanding if tools are not sharp
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, varnishes, polyurethanes, and oils well; conditioning may be helpful for even stain absorption on the lighter sapwood or earlywood areas
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct pine-like scent when freshly cut, high resin content, and contrasting grain lines
