Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Pacific Northwest of North America and western mountainous regions
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight, vertical grain (quarter-sawn/rift-sawn appearance with tight, parallel growth rings)
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to brownish-yellow with distinct contrast between earlywood and latewood rings. Darkens slightly over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and vertical grain selection
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 5 to 15 years based on modern installation context and surface finish condition
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available through sustainably managed forests and plantations
Common Uses
Construction framing, plywood, flooring, doors, window frames, and heavy timber construction
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America and western mountainous regions
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though the strong contrast in density between earlywood and latewood can occasionally cause splintering or uneven planing if tools are not sharp
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, varnishes, and modern polyurethane finishes very well; exterior applications benefit from UV-blocking finishes to prevent graying
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct aromatic scent when freshly cut, excellent dimensional stability for a softwood
