Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse, and even grain with a distinct contrast between earlywood and latewood. Flat-sawn orientation is visible through the peeling paint, showing characteristic reddish-brown growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish-brown to orange-brown. Sapwood is a lighter yellowish-white. The exposed grain shows darkening due to oxidation and potential moisture exposure, shifting toward a deeper orange-brown over time.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; resistant to decay but susceptible to insect attack. Its high resin content provides basic protection against rot in vertical applications.
Common Uses
Residential construction, porch flooring, heavy timbers, trim/molding, and plywood. These specific planks are likely porch or deck flooring given the paint layers.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
3.50 - 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain typically commands higher prices than the flat-sawn shown here).
Wood Age Estimate
50-80 years. The thick, multi-layered lead-based-styled paint, accumulation of white spatter, and the degree of oxidation on the exposed wood fiber suggest mid-20th century installation.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available as FSC certified and managed through sustainable forestry practices in North America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it can be prone to splintering and tearout because of the sharp hardness difference between latewood and earlywood rings.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut. Known for high strength-to-weight ratio among softwoods. Sap can be problematic for finishes if not kiln-dried properly.
Finish Recommendations
Requires thorough stripping of old paint and sanding. Recommended finish is a high-quality exterior porch enamel, oil-based primer, or a penetrating deck stain if the wood is restored to a raw state.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The prominent, wide reddish growth rings and coarse texture beneath the paint are classic indicators of Douglas Fir used in vintage construction and flooring.