Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and fairly coarse; the end grain shows prominent, distinct growth rings with a sharp transition between light earlywood and dark latewood; some waviness visible near knots or branch inclusions.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from yellowish-tan up to a light reddish-brown; sapwood is a paler cream color. Dark latewood bands create high-contrast stripes. It tends to darken or redden over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot/decay but is susceptible to insect attack. Common for structural use above ground.
Common Uses
Structural timber, heavy construction, plywood, veneer, trim, furniture, and flooring.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain/Clear commands higher prices).
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to slightly seasoned (under 1 year); shows bright oxidation and sharp mechanical saw marks typical of modern lumber.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available as FSC certified and sustainably harvested.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though latewood/earlywood density differences can cause uneven sanding. Saws and glues well; holds nails and screws adequately.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous, sweet scent when cut; high strength-to-weight ratio for a softwood; often contains small resin canals.
Finish Recommendations
Takes most finishes well, including polyurethane, oils, and lacquer. Use of a wood conditioner/pre-stain is highly recommended to prevent blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; based on the high-contrast prominent latewood rings, characteristic reddish-tan hue, and the specific structural appearance of the coarse end-grain typical of North American conifers.