Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with earlywood-latewood contrast; visible rift-sawn or quarter-sawn orientation showing tight growth rings
Color Description
Light brown to reddish-orange heartwood with a distinct pale yellowish sapwood; tends to darken to a deeper reddish-brown over time with UV exposure
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay and rot but susceptible to insect attack
Common Uses
Heavy structural construction, flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, boat building, and veneer
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Ranges from $3.00 to $12.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain/Clear being highest)
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut to 1 year; lacks deep oxidation patina or significant wear patterns
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES or IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification; considered very sustainable due to managed forests
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, though latewood can be hard and cause splintering; finishes and glues well, but requires pre-drilling for screws
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when worked; high strength-to-weight ratio; abrupt transition between earlywood and latewood bands
Finish Recommendations
Takes most finishes well, but a sanding sealer or wood conditioner is recommended to prevent blotching with stains; oil or clear polyurethane best highlights the grain
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct transition between the lighter earlywood and darker, denser latewood rings, combined with the reddish hue and bark texture, is diagnostic for Douglas Fir.