Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Strong straight grain with prominent earlywood and latewood bands; flat-sawn displaying cathedral patterns and some wavy characteristics near knots.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to a reddish-orange hue with lighter yellow sapwood. The wood darkens and reddens significantly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some natural resistance to rot and decay but susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Construction framing, heavy timbers, flooring, cabinetry, furniture, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, primarily the Pacific Northwest.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain/Clear being more expensive).
Wood Age Estimate
Used in a modern application (likely less than 10-15 years old) based on the surface finish and lack of deep oxidation or historic wear.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES or IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification; considered highly sustainable due to rapid growth and managed forests.
Workability
Works well with machine tools but can be prone to splintering and tearout. It holds nails and screws well and glues effectively.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; known for having one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios among softwoods.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for high-use surfaces (like the tabletop shown) to prevent denting; film-forming finishes help stabilize the texture.
Identification Confidence
High; the wide, reddish-brown latewood bands and yellowish earlywood, combined with the specific cathedral grain and resinous appearance, are classic indicators of Douglas Fir.