Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a medium to coarse texture; visible flat-sawn cathedral patterns on face; notable presence of small, tight knots and distinct latewood/earlywood contrast.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to a reddish-pinkish hue; sapwood is yellowish-white. The wood tends to darken or redden over time when exposed to UV light.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some natural resistance to rot and decay but is susceptible to insect attack if untreated and in ground contact.
Common Uses
Structural framing, heavy construction, exterior siding, flooring, veneer, and furniture.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.00 to $4.50 per board foot depending on grade (kiln-dried vs. green) and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently harvested lumber (under 1 year), evidenced by high brightness, lack of graying/oxidation, and modern circular saw/planer marks.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on IUCN Red List; widely available and harvested from sustainably managed forests; FSC certification is common.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can split during nailing. It has a tendency to tear out during planing if grain is irregular around knots. Gluing and finishing are typically straightforward.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high strength-to-weight ratio for a softwood; high resin content can sometimes bleed through paint if not sealed.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or oil-based varnishes are recommended for protection; clear sealers work well to preserve the natural color. If used outdoors, a UV-inhibiting stain is essential.
Identification Confidence
High; the color transitions, prominent growth ring definition, and presence of typical softwood knots are characteristic of construction-grade Douglas Fir.