Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; offers moderate resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight but coarse with a prominent, uneven texture; visible earlywood and latewood bands create a high-contrast cathedral and 'flame' figure in this flat-sawn sample.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically a range of light brown to a distinct reddish or orange hue; sapwood is yellowish-white. This sample shows deep amber oxidation due to age under a finish.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; offers moderate resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 9.00 USD per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain vs Flat Grain).
- Wood Age Estimate
- 50-80 years; based on the significant ambering of the wood fibers, the presence of multiple layers of lead-era green paint, and the wide-plank flooring format.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available as FSC certified and generally sustainable.
Common Uses
Residential flooring, heavy structural timbers, construction plywood, cabinetry, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Workability
Works well with machine tools but can be prone to splintering and 'shelling' of the latewood. Responds well to gluing and takes finishes adequately though can be resinous.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or floor-grade oils; sanding requires care to avoid uneven wear between the hard latewood and soft earlywood layers.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and prominent growth ring contrast.
